10+ Best Self Esteem Books for 6-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

As a parent or educator, you know how crucial it is to nurture self-esteem from a young age. That's why finding the right self esteem books for 6-year-olds can be a game-changer in boosting their confidence and self-awareness. Whether you're looking to add to your home library or find the perfect gift, this blog will guide you through various lists of top picks that cater to the unique needs of six-year-olds. Keep reading to discover how these books can make a positive impact on your little one's development!

Fun Self Esteem Books for 6-Year-Olds

• I Like Myself! by Karen Beaumont, illustrated by David Catrow
  • Genre(s): Children’s Fiction, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: This vibrant and energetic book encourages children to appreciate everything about themselves, inside and out.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's filled with playful language and humorous illustrations that make self-acceptance fun.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy rhymes and colorful illustrations, and could use a boost in self-love.

• Incredible You! 10 Ways to Let Your Greatness Shine Through by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer with Kristina Tracy, illustrated by Melanie Siegel
  • Genre(s): Self-help, Children’s Nonfiction
  • Synopsis: This book offers 10 life lessons for kids to help them see how unique and special they are.
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses simple, direct advice and affirmations to build confidence in young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who could benefit from positive affirmations and life lessons.

• Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell, illustrated by David Catrow
  • Genre(s): Children’s Fiction, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: Molly Lou Melon is short, clumsy, and has buck teeth, but her grandmother taught her to walk proud and smile big.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches children to embrace their imperfections and stand proud regardless of others’ opinions.
  • Perfect for: Children who might feel different or insecure and need a role model like Molly Lou.

• The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds
  • Genre(s): Children’s Fiction, Creativity
  • Synopsis: A story about a girl who believes she can’t draw but is encouraged by her teacher to “make a mark and see where it takes you.”
  • Why we recommend this book: It inspires creativity and confidence in personal abilities through a simple, yet profound narrative.
  • Perfect for: Young artists and any child who doubts their own abilities.

• The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi
  • Genre(s): Children’s Fiction, Cultural Identity
  • Synopsis: A girl from Korea named Unhei worries that American kids will like her name, so she decides to choose a new one.
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes the importance of self-acceptance and the value of cultural diversity.
  • Perfect for: Children facing cultural assimilation or anyone struggling with their identity.

Educational Self Esteem Books for 6-Year-Olds

• You Matter by Christian Robinson
  • Genre(s): Children’s Fiction, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: This book delivers a heartfelt message about how everyone is connected and everyone matters, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, understanding of interconnectedness, self-worth
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a beautifully illustrated and gentle reminder that every person has value, which is crucial for building self-esteem at a young age.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who need a confidence boost and a sense of belonging.

• The Okay Book by Todd Parr
  • Genre(s): Children's Picture Book, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: Through simple, colorful illustrations and brief text, this book celebrates the many ways to be "okay."
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional recognition, self-acceptance
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages kids to embrace their individuality and reassures them that it's okay to be different.
  • Perfect for: Preschoolers and kindergarteners learning to recognize and celebrate their own strengths and weaknesses.

• I Am Enough by Grace Byers, illustrated by Keturah A. Bobo
  • Genre(s): Children’s Fiction, Empowerment
  • Synopsis: This lyrical ode to self-confidence and kindness encourages children to appreciate their own uniqueness and treat others with respect.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-respect, respect for others, confidence
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines poetic text and vibrant illustrations to deliver powerful messages about love and acceptance.
  • Perfect for: Young girls and boys who are learning to navigate social dynamics and personal self-esteem.

• Be Who You Are by Todd Parr
  • Genre(s): Children’s Picture Book, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: This book encourages kids to be proud of what makes them unique, whether it's their skin color, their glasses, or their family.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Identity, self-expression
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes diversity and self-acceptance in a very accessible and colorful way.
  • Perfect for: Children who are beginning to explore their own identity and the diversity around them.

• Remarkably You by Pat Zietlow Miller, illustrated by Patrice Barton
  • Genre(s): Children’s Fiction, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: A celebration of individuality and all the wonderful ways to make a mark in the world.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-awareness, confidence, social skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s an empowering read that encourages children to embrace who they are and recognize their potential to influence the world.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are discovering their own interests and talents and need encouragement to follow their dreams.

Challenging Self Esteem Books for 6-Year-Olds

• Only One You by Linda Kranz
  • Genre(s): Children's Picture Book, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: This book shares the wisdom a parent fish imparts to its child, offering life lessons and advice on how to navigate the world while being true to oneself.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces philosophical concepts and metaphorical advice that require a deeper level of thinking and interpretation.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides timeless wisdom through simple, engaging storytelling, encouraging children to think about their impact on the world.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy thoughtful narratives and are beginning to explore deeper life meanings.

• What Do You Do With a Problem? by Kobi Yamada, illustrated by Mae Besom
  • Genre(s): Children’s Picture Book, Self-Help
  • Synopsis: This story follows a child as they learn to face a persistent problem rather than avoid it, discovering that problems can hold opportunities.
  • Why this book is challenging: The abstract concept of personifying a problem as something that can grow and change introduces complex cognitive ideas.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches resilience and problem-solving skills in a way that is approachable for children, encouraging them to face challenges head-on.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are dealing with or learning about overcoming obstacles and personal growth.

• The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein, illustrated by Mark Pett
  • Genre(s): Children’s Fiction, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: Beatrice Bottomwell is known in her town for never making a mistake—until one day she does, and learns that life goes on and can even improve when you let go of perfection.
  • Why this book is challenging: It addresses the complex themes of perfectionism and the freedom found in accepting flaws.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a great tool for discussing the unrealistic pressures of perfectionism and the healthy acceptance of errors as part of learning.
  • Perfect for: Perfectionist children or those who fear making mistakes and need reassurance.

• Beautiful Oops! by Barney Saltzberg
  • Genre(s): Children’s Picture Book, Creativity
  • Synopsis: This interactive book shows how a mistake like a tear or a spill can turn into something beautiful, encouraging creativity and a positive outlook on accidents.
  • Why this book is challenging: It transforms the reader's perspective on mistakes through hands-on examples, which requires both creative thinking and cognitive flexibility.
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes a positive attitude towards mistakes and accidents, showing how they can lead to unexpected and delightful outcomes.
  • Perfect for: Creative children and those needing encouragement to see the positive side of their mishaps.

• Tomorrow I'll Be Brave by Jessica Hische
  • Genre(s): Children's Picture Book, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This beautifully illustrated book encourages kids to promise to try new things, do their best, and be brave the next day.
  • Why this book is challenging: The use of sophisticated vocabulary and abstract concepts like hope and bravery challenges young readers to think about their own behaviors and aspirations.
  • Why we recommend this book: It inspires children to set personal goals and strive towards self-improvement with a gentle, reassuring tone.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who need a nudge towards self-motivation and personal growth.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

When you're introducing self-esteem books to your 6-year-old, pairing reading with engaging activities can enhance both their comprehension and their confidence. Here are a few exercises that are perfect for this age group to help them develop great reading habits while boosting their self-esteem:

• Read Together
  • What it is: Sit down and read the book together with your child.
  • How it helps: This activity strengthens bonding and improves reading skills through listening and observation.
  • Tips: Let your child pick the book and ask them to read aloud parts they feel comfortable with.

• Character Role Play
  • What it is: After reading, act out scenes from the book with your child taking on the role of their favorite character.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding of the character’s emotions and decisions, boosting empathy and self-reflection.
  • Tips: Use simple props or costumes to make the role play more fun and engaging.

• Draw the Story
  • What it is: Have your child draw their favorite scene or character from the book.
  • How it helps: Encourages creative expression and helps with recall and interpretation of the story.
  • Tips: Discuss the drawing with your child, asking why they chose that particular scene or character.

• Story Predictions
  • What it is: Pause during reading to ask your child what they think will happen next.
  • How it helps: Develops analytical thinking and anticipation skills.
  • Tips: There are no wrong answers here; encourage all guesses and discuss the outcomes.

• Book-Based Puzzles
  • What it is: Create puzzles or find printable worksheets that are themed around the book.
  • How it helps: Reinforces details from the book and improves problem-solving skills.
  • Tips: Choose puzzles that are age-appropriate to keep your child motivated and not frustrated.

Incorporating these exercises into your reading routine will not only make reading more dynamic and enjoyable for your child but will also play a crucial role in developing their self-esteem and reading proficiency. Remember, the goal is to make reading a fun and interactive experience that your child looks forward to. Happy reading!