10+ Best Self Esteem Books for 8-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to boost your child’s confidence? Look no further! Our curated list of self-esteem books for 8-year-olds is packed with stories that inspire and empower young minds. Whether your little one is a budding artist or a future scientist, these books are designed to nurture their sense of self-worth and help them realize their potential. Keep reading to discover our top picks that are sure to make a positive impact!

Fun Self Esteem Books for 8-Year-Olds

• I Like Myself! by Karen Beaumont, illustrated by David Catrow
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: This vibrant picture book features a little girl who embraces everything about herself, from her wild hair to her mismatched socks.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and lively read that encourages kids to love and accept themselves as they are, boosting self-esteem through playful language and colorful illustrations.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy rhymes and those in need of a confidence boost.

• Incredible You! 10 Ways to Let Your Greatness Shine Through by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer with Kristina Tracy, illustrated by Melanie Siegel
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Self-help
  • Synopsis: This book offers ten simple life lessons for children to help them discover and embrace their own greatness.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides straightforward, positive affirmations that help children recognize their inner strengths and the importance of being kind to themselves and others.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who could benefit from positive affirmations and self-empowerment.

• 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, but she doesn't mind. Her grandmother has always taught her to walk proud, smile big, and sing loud, and she takes those lessons to heart.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches children to embrace their unique traits and ignore bullies, conveyed through a charming story and whimsical illustrations.
  • Perfect for: Children who might feel different or out of place and need encouragement to see their own value.

• The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Creativity
  • Synopsis: This book follows a young girl named Vashti who believes she cannot draw, but her teacher's encouragement leads her to make a mark on a piece of paper, which becomes the start of her journey to self-expression.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gentle reminder of the importance of creativity and how a simple act of encouragement can lead to a boost in self-confidence and self-discovery.
  • Perfect for: Young artists and any child who needs encouragement to explore their own creative potential.

• The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Cultural Identity
  • Synopsis: Unhei, a young Korean girl, is anxious about being teased for her name when she moves to America, so she tells her new classmates that she will choose a new name. She soon learns to appreciate her Korean name and its unique meaning.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages children to embrace their own heritage and the uniqueness of their identities, fostering self-esteem.
  • Perfect for: Children facing cultural integration and those learning to appreciate their own unique backgrounds.

Educational Self Esteem Books for 8-Year-Olds

• You Matter by Christian Robinson
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: This book delivers a heartfelt message through the stories of different characters, emphasizing that everyone, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, matters.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, understanding of diversity, self-worth
  • Why we recommend this book: It's beautifully illustrated and provides a powerful, affirming message that can help boost a child's self-esteem and sense of belonging.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who need a reminder of their own importance in the world.

• Be Who You Are by Todd Parr
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: This vibrant book encourages children to be proud of what makes them unique, covering everything from body types to cultural and emotional expressions.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-acceptance, diversity awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: Todd Parr's distinctive, colorful illustrations and simple yet powerful text celebrate individuality and encourage children to love themselves as they are.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are beginning to explore their own identities and those from diverse backgrounds.

• I Am Enough by Grace Byers, illustrated by Keturah A. Bobo
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: This lyrical ode to self-confidence and kindness follows a girl who learns to embrace herself and support others, promoting messages of love, acceptance, and the strength found in diversity.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional intelligence, kindness, self-respect
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines graceful rhyme with beautiful illustrations to empower children to feel good about themselves and respect others.
  • Perfect for: Young girls and boys who could benefit from a confidence boost and a sense of community.

• Dear Girl, by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Paris Rosenthal, illustrated by Holly Hatam
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: A series of letters written for the special girl in your life, this book provides gentle reminders to make your own decisions, express yourself, and never dim your bright spirit.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Decision-making, self-expression, individuality
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching and empowering book that encourages girls to be who they are and cherish their own unique qualities.
  • Perfect for: Daughters, nieces, and young girls everywhere who could use some empowering words of encouragement.

• Remarkably You by Pat Zietlow Miller, illustrated by Patrice Barton
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: This book celebrates individuality and all the ways one can make a difference in the world by being true to themselves.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-discovery, courage to be oneself
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring read that encourages kids to embrace their unique traits and use them to impact the world positively.
  • Perfect for: Children who are discovering their personal strengths and how they can contribute to their community.

Challenging Self Esteem Books for 8-Year-Olds

• 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 fateful day when everything starts to go wrong, teaching her the beauty and relief of not being perfect.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative tackles the complex theme of perfectionism and the pressure to always succeed, which can be a profound topic for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It addresses the unrealistic standards of perfection, helping children understand that it's okay to make mistakes and that this can lead to growth and learning.
  • Perfect for: Perfectionist kids who need to learn the value of mistakes and the importance of resilience.

• The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Creativity, Problem Solving
  • Synopsis: A little girl and her canine assistant set out to make the most magnificent thing, but the task proves more challenging than expected. Through her journey, she learns the importance of perseverance and creativity.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces concepts of resilience, frustration, and the iterative process of creating, which are advanced emotional and cognitive challenges for children.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a motivational story that teaches kids about the trial-and-error process and the satisfaction of achieving goals through persistence.
  • Perfect for: Young inventors and creators who might get easily frustrated when things don’t go as planned.

• Beautiful Oops! by Barney Saltzberg
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Creativity, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: This interactive book shows that when you think you have made a mistake, you can create something beautiful out of it, turning blunders into wonders.
  • Why this book is challenging: It encourages a shift in perspective from viewing mistakes as failures to seeing them as opportunities, a sophisticated concept for young minds to grasp.
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes creativity and confidence by teaching children that mistakes are just the beginning of discovery.
  • Perfect for: Kids who might be afraid to try new things for fear of making a mistake.

• What Do You Do With a Problem? by Kobi Yamada, illustrated by Mae Besom
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Problem Solving, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: This story follows a child who learns to face a persistent problem rather than avoid it, discovering that within the problem lies an opportunity to learn and grow.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with the abstract concepts of facing fears and the hidden benefits within problems, which can be complex ideas for children.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches resilience and the positive outcomes of facing challenges head-on, encouraging a growth mindset.
  • Perfect for: Children who tend to avoid or fear problems and need encouragement to confront challenges.

• The Lion Inside by Rachel Bright, illustrated by Jim Field
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Courage, Self-Esteem
  • Synopsis: A timid mouse decides to find his roar by asking a lion for help, only to discover that the lion is just as scared as he is. Together, they learn that no matter your size, there is a lion and a mouse inside us all.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores themes of courage, self-discovery, and the balance of inner strength and fear, which are significant and complex issues.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming tale that encourages children to find their inner strength and voice, regardless of their fears.
  • Perfect for: Little ones who might feel overlooked or undervalued and need to find their inner courage.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to boost your 8-year-old's self-esteem through reading, incorporating some fun and engaging exercises can make a big difference. Here are a few exercises that not only enhance reading habits but also build confidence in young readers.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Set up a comfortable and inviting area dedicated to reading.
  • How it helps: Provides a special space that makes reading a more enjoyable and anticipated activity.
  • Tips: Let your child help in designing the space to give them a sense of ownership and excitement.

• Book Character Role Play
  • What it is: Act out scenes from a book with your child taking on the role of their favorite character.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and empathy, and helps children connect more deeply with the characters.
  • Tips: Use simple props or costumes to make the activity more fun and engaging.

• Reading Challenge with Rewards
  • What it is: Set up a challenge where your child aims to read a certain number of books or pages within a timeframe.
  • How it helps: Encourages regular reading and goal-setting.
  • Tips: Offer meaningful rewards that motivate your child, like choosing the next book to read together.

• Story Mapping
  • What it is: Draw a map that outlines the events of a story after reading it.
  • How it with helps: Helps with understanding the structure of stories and improves retention.
  • Tips: Use colors and pictures to make the map visually appealing and easier to remember.

• Book Club for Kids
  • What it is: Organize a small group of your child’s friends to read the same book and discuss it.
  • How it helps: Builds communication skills and lets children share their thoughts and perspectives.
  • op: Keep the discussions light and fun; perhaps include a related activity or craft.

By integrating these exercises into your 8-year-old's reading routine, you're not just helping them develop a love for reading; you're also boosting their self-esteem through engaging and creative activities. Encourage them to try out these exercises, and watch their confidence grow as they explore the wonderful world of books!