10+ Best Self Esteem Books for 7-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Hey there! Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to boost your little one’s confidence? Look no further! Our roundup of self esteem books for 7-year-olds is packed with picks that are not only engaging but also empowering. These books are tailor-made to help children believe in themselves and embrace their unique qualities. Keep reading to discover our favorite self esteem books for 7-year-olds that are sure to inspire and delight!

Fun Self Esteem Books for 7-Year-Olds

• I Like Myself! by Karen Beaumont, illustrated by David Catrow
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: A joyful little girl celebrates self-acceptance and self-love, regardless of her appearance or what others think.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's vibrant and fun, encouraging kids to embrace their uniqueness with confidence.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy playful rhymes and colorful illustrations, and those learning to love themselves just as they are.

• 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 and clumsy, has buck teeth, and a voice that sounds like a bullfrog being squeezed by a boa constrictor. She doesn't mind. Her grandmother has taught her to walk proud, smile big, and sing loud, and she takes these lessons to heart.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches children to embrace their imperfections and stand strong, no matter what challenges come their way.
  • Perfect for: Children who are facing bullying or who need a boost in confidence.

• The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Creativity, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: Vashti believes she cannot draw, but her teacher encourages her to make a mark and see where it takes her. Starting with a small dot on a piece of paper, Vashti discovers her creative spirit.
  • Why we recommend this book: It inspires creativity and confidence in personal abilities, showing kids that small steps can lead to big achievements.
  • Perfect for: Young artists and any child who is hesitant to express themselves creatively.

• Incredible You! 10 Ways to Let Your Greatness Shine Through by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer, illustrated by Melanie Siegel
  • Genre(s): Children's Non-Fiction, Self-Help, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: Dr. Dyer shares ten life lessons aimed at helping children realize their worth and potential.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides practical advice in a kid-friendly manner on how to deal with emotions and develop a positive outlook.
  • Perfect for: Children needing encouragement and a boost in self-esteem, and those looking to understand their feelings better.

• Beautiful Oops! by Barney Saltzberg
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Creativity, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: This interactive book shows that it's okay to make mistakes and that an error can turn into something beautiful.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches resilience and the value of mistakes in a fun and engaging way.
  • Perfect for: Children who might be afraid of making mistakes and those who enjoy interactive reading experiences.

Educational Self Esteem Books for 7-Year-Olds

• You Matter by Christian Robinson
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: Through simple, yet profound illustrations and messages, this book teaches children that no matter who they are or where they come from, they always have value.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, self-worth, understanding diversity
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gentle reminder of each person's significance in the big, interconnected world, presented in a way that's accessible to young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young readers needing a boost in self-esteem and a sense of belonging.

• I Am Enough by Grace Byers, illustrated by Keturah A. Bobo
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Poetry, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: This lyrical ode to self-confidence and kindness encourages children to appreciate their own value and respect others.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Social skills, emotional intelligence, respect for diversity
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes positive self-image and mutual respect through beautiful poetry and captivating illustrations.
  • Perfect for: Children learning about self-love and the importance of kindness towards others.

• The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Cultural Identity, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: Unhei, a young Korean girl, worries that American classmates won't pronounce her name correctly. As she contemplates choosing a new name, she learns to value her identity and heritage.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, self-acceptance, confidence
  • Why we recommend this book: It addresses the challenges of fitting in and the importance of being true to oneself in a multicultural setting.
  • Perfect for: Children navigating cultural identity and acceptance in diverse environments.

• Remarkably You by Pat Zietlow Miller, illustrated by Patrice Barton
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Self-Esteem, Individuality
  • Synopsis: This book celebrates individual talents and encourages children to be proud of who they are, recognizing that everyone is special in their own way.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Confidence, individuality, self-expression
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an empowering read that inspires kids to embrace and celebrate their unique qualities.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are discovering their own strengths and learning to celebrate their individuality.

• When I Am Brave by Pat Zietlow Miller, illustrated by Eliza Wheeler
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Emotions, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: A young child faces and overcomes their fears with courage, showing that bravery comes in many forms.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional resilience, courage, self-confidence
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a relatable and encouraging message about facing fears and finding inner strength.
  • Perfect for: Children who may be dealing with anxiety or fear and need encouragement to find their courage.

Challenging Self Esteem Books for 7-Year-Olds

• The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Philosophy, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: This beautifully illustrated book shares the poignant journeys and conversations between four unlikely friends as they explore life's significant questions and the essence of friendship, courage, and love.
  • Why this book is challenging: The text delves into philosophical questions and abstract concepts that are typically not addressed in traditional children's literature, providing a deeper, thought-provoking experience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages deep thinking and offers profound insights on life and personal growth in a simple, accessible way that resonates with young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy thoughtful narratives and those in search of life’s deeper meanings.

• What Do You Do With a Problem? by Kobi Yamada, illustrated by Mae Besom
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Self-Help, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: This story follows a child who learns to tackle an ever-growing problem rather than avoid it, discovering that within the problem lies an opportunity to learn and grow.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces the concept of facing personal challenges head-on, a mature approach to problem-solving that requires introspection and courage.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches resilience and the positive outcomes of facing rather than fleeing from difficult situations.
  • Perfect for: Children who are learning how to deal with challenges and those looking for encouragement in problem-solving.

• Tomorrow I'll Be Brave by Jessica Hische
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Inspiration, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: This beautifully illustrated book encourages children to promise to try new things, do their best, and be brave tomorrow.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book uses sophisticated vocabulary and lettering art to engage readers, which challenges them to understand and appreciate the beauty of typography alongside the message.
  • Why we recommend this book: It inspires children to set personal goals and strive for improvement in all aspects of their lives.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who need a gentle nudge towards self-improvement and bravery in daily activities.

• The Lion Inside by Rachel Bright, illustrated by Jim Field
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Courage, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: A timid mouse, feeling overlooked and small, sets out on a journey to find his roar by befriending a mighty lion, only to discover that courage comes from within.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative explores themes of self-discovery and bravery through a compelling rhyming story, challenging young readers to find their inner strength.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches the importance of self-belief and courage, regardless of one's size or strength.
  • Perfect for: Children who might feel small or unnoticed and are in search of confidence and self-acceptance.

• Only One You by Linda Kranz
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Philosophy, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: Through the journey of a young fish named Adri, this book imparts wisdom from his parents, focusing on the lessons of individuality and the beauty of life.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents philosophical insights about life and individuality in a simplistic yet profound way, encouraging young readers to think deeply about their place in the world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers timeless advice through a simple, engaging story, encouraging children to appreciate their uniqueness and the world around them.
  • Perfect for: Young thinkers and anyone who appreciates a visually captivating, meaningful read.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 7-year-old build self-esteem through reading, you've come to the right place. Books can be a powerful tool in developing a positive self-image and confidence at a young age. Below, I've listed some fun and effective exercises that pair well with self-esteem books for kids. These exercises are designed to reinforce good reading habits and boost self-esteem in a supportive way.

• Create a Book Club
  • What it is: Form a small reading group with friends or family.
  • How it helps: Encourages sharing thoughts and feelings, enhancing social skills and self-expression.
  • Tips: Choose books that are appropriate for all members and discuss each book after reading.

• Character Role Play
  • What it is: Act out scenes from a book with characters that exhibit strong, positive traits.
  • How it helps: Helps children understand and emulate positive behaviors, boosting their own self-esteem.
  • Tips: Use simple props or costumes for more engaging play and deeper connection with the characters.

• Reading and Drawing
  • What it is: Draw a favorite scene or character from the book after reading.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and allows creative expression, which is great for emotional development.
  • Tips: Display the drawings prominently to show pride in their work, boosting their confidence.

• Story Predictions
  • What it is: Before finishing the book, guess what might happen next.
  • How it helps: Develops analytical and critical thinking skills.
  • Tips: Discuss why they made those predictions to encourage reasoning and inference skills.

• Book-Based Games
  • What it is: Create games based on the book’s theme or characters.
  • How it helps: Makes reading fun and interactive, which can improve engagement and retention.
  • Tips: Simple games like memory match, character bingo, or story-based treasure hunts can be very effective.

Implementing these exercises can turn reading from a solitary activity into a fun, engaging, and social way to boost self-esteem. Not only will these activities help your child develop a love for reading, but they'll also provide valuable lessons in self-worth and confidence. Happy reading and playing!