I Like Myself! Picture Books About Confidence for Kids
Just be confident is something grown-ups say to kids. But becoming a confident person is easier said than done. As parents, educators, and caregivers, how do we teach our children to embrace their unique qualities and be comfortable with who they are?
The picture books on this reading list share stories and strategies to help children build their confidence. From feeling secure in your identity to small acts of bravery, these books help kids see that confidence shows up in everyday moments.
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1
Add to BookshelfHow to Be Confident in Kindergarten
by D.J. Steinberg
Kindergarten is a big step for little kids, and they often feel overwhelmed by the experience. But each time they make a friend, learn a concept, play a new game, or participate in an activity, they build their confidence. This sweet book from the author of Kindergarten, Here I Come! is a must-read for any child starting kindergarten.
Ages 3 – 5
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$9.99Buy from Other Retailers:
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2
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Sasha Feels Shy
by Natalia Shaloshvili
Sasha is excited for her playdate with Leo and can’t wait to join in his imaginary play. But Leo’s energetic personality causes Sasha to retreat into her shyness, preventing her from participating. With kindness, understanding, and a bit of time, Sasha grows comfortable enough to let go of her inhibitions and have a fun-filled playdate. This highly relatable story shows children that some kids need a little extra time to feel comfortable and confident.
Ages 3 – 7
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$18.99Buy from Other Retailers:
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3
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Brave Like a Lion!
by Megan Piphus
May is a shy little girl who struggles to make friends and use her voice in class. When she gets the chance to share about herself in front of the class, she worries that she won’t have the confidence to do a good job. But with some practice and the help of her favorite puppet, May not only finds her voice but also gives her classmates a performance they won’t forget.
Ages 3 – 7
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4
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Frida the Rock-and-Roll Moth
by Kim Hillyard
Frida is a little moth who loves to play rock-and-roll music on her guitar. But when she meets other musical moths, Frida feels like she doesn’t fit in, and her confidence falters. After some half-hearted attempts to imitate the other musicians, Frida leans into the gentle guidance her aunt offers and takes the stage once again. This time, she doesn’t shy away from being herself.
Ages 4 – 8
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5
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Jabari Jumps
by Gaia Cornwall
Any kid who has had to work up the courage to try something new will appreciate this relatable story. Jabari thinks he is ready to jump off the diving board, but he keeps putting it off. With his father’s support and a little extra time to rest and stretch, Jabari overcomes his fears and takes the leap. This confidence-boosting story is perfect for summertime!
Ages 4 – 8
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$8.99Buy from Other Retailers:
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6
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The Girl Who Was Too Big for the Page
by Geena Davis
Kids will love this charming story about a girl named Sheila who lives inside a book. At first, she is just the right size for the book, but as she grows, she no longer fits on the page. In an effort to fit in the margins, Sheila tries crouching, bending, and standing in weird ways. Eventually, Sheila realizes that she doesn’t need to bend herself out of shape to fit on the page. Instead, she can alter the page to fit her.
Ages 4 – 8
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7
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The Most Magnificent Me
by Chitra Soundar
Rhythmic, rhyming text and vibrant illustrations adorn the pages of this uplifting picture book. Young readers will learn to embrace the things that make them unique, while also celebrating other people’s authentic traits. The bold refrains encourage children to reach for the stars and become the person they want to be.
Ages 5 – 8
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$18.99Buy from Other Retailers:
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8
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The Dot
by Peter H. Reynolds
Vashti isn’t an artist, so when her art teacher tells her to make a mark and “see where it takes you,” Vashti reluctantly complies. What starts as a single angry mark on a piece of paper becomes a journey of exploration, experimentation, and self-discovery. This modern classic will help children embrace their creativity and have the confidence to try new things.
Ages 5 – 9
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$8.99Buy from Other Retailers:
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9
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Brave
by Weshoyot Alvitre
A young Native American boy gets teased at school about his long, braided hair. However, as he learns about the cultural significance of his braids, the boy realizes that his hairstyle connects him to his heritage, ancestors, and community. His braids remind him to be proud of who he is.
Ages 5 – 9
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$18.99Buy from Other Retailers:
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10
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A Kids Book About Confidence
by Joy Cho
This simple book explains what confidence is and how to navigate it. While you may feel confident today, tomorrow might look different. With easy-to-understand text, bold colors, and plenty of white space, this book helps kids understand where confidence comes from and how to build it in themselves.
Ages 5 – 9
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$19.99Buy from Other Retailers:
