What Are Some Confidence-Building Activities for Kids?

Here are 20 confidence building activities for kids. Helping kids build confidence isn't about big speeches—it's about helping them explore, try, fail, and grow through real, hands-on experiences. Confidence comes from doing, trying, and learning, especially through challenges they care about. These 20 activities are perfect for kids ages 7–12 and center on decision-making, resilience, and independence.

Give them unconventional materials (string, cardboard, glue) and say, "Make anything!" It’s not about a perfect result—it’s about experimenting without pressure.

Let them choose their act—singing, jokes, dancing, whatever—and put on a show. Performing something they’ve prepared builds courage and joy.

Fill a jar with ideas like “learn a magic trick” or “make a clay animal.” Let them pull one out weekly. Facing little unknowns builds openness and flexibility.

Have them draw or tell a story of a time they figured something out. This helps them see themselves as capable and creative.

Whether it’s a board game night or a walk to the park, giving them the reins helps them feel respected and trusted.

Give them markers, paper, dice, and let them invent rules. Testing and refining their game gives them a sense of control and innovation.

Start a weekly tradition where everyone shares something they messed up—and what they learned. It normalizes failure and builds resilience.

Have them create a banner with a phrase like “I can figure it out!” or “Mistakes help me grow.” Hang it up where they can see it every day.

Decorate a box and fill it with drawings, notes, or photos of things they’ve accomplished. Revisit it anytime they need a boost.

Let them be in charge of safe, simple choices for the day (within reason!). Making decisions builds confidence in judgment and leadership.

Challenge them to design buildings, vehicles, or landmarks. It’s creative thinking, spatial planning, and project management in disguise.

Have them write a short play and perform it for the family. It encourages collaboration, creativity, and confidence in communication.

Each time they try or learn something new, have them write or draw about it. Looking back helps them see their growth.

Mastering a simple trick and showing it off builds excitement, focus, and presentation skills.

Let them hide clues and create a map. It puts them in charge and shows they can plan something others enjoy.

Give them a list of helpful things to do for others (make someone’s bed, write a kind note). Doing good builds inner pride.

Whether it’s tying shoes or folding paper stars, letting them teach something reinforces mastery and communication.

Set a fun task and see how many times they can do it in one minute (like stacking cups or bouncing a ball). It’s about trying, not perfection.

They invent a superhero version of themselves, with strengths based on their real personality. Great for identity and self-image.

Help them write questions and record an interview. It builds curiosity, social confidence, and connection.

Q: Why is confidence important for kids? A: Confidence helps kids try new things, bounce back from setbacks, and believe in their abilities.

Q: How do I know if an activity is building confidence? A: Look for signs like them taking initiative, solving problems, and smiling after they figure something out.

Q: My kid gets discouraged easily. What helps? A: Pick small, winnable tasks first. Celebrate effort over outcome, and share your own failures too.

Q: How do I support without taking over? A: Ask guiding questions like “What do you want to try next?” instead of offering solutions right away.

Q: What’s a good activity to start with? A: Try the "Try Something New" jar or the DIY board game—both spark creativity and build confidence in decision-making.