Self-worth

"I am enough," inherent value, self-acceptance

The "I'm stupid." The "nobody likes me." The deflection of every compliment. Hearing your child talk about themselves this way is gutting - and knowing how to respond without making it worse takes care.

What to Know

When kids say things like "I'm stupid" or "nobody likes me," the instinct is to contradict them — to list evidence of their worth and competence. But this rarely works because you're arguing with a feeling, not presenting a court case. The feeling is real even when the facts don't support it.

Low self-worth often develops from accumulated experiences: too much criticism, not enough success, comparisons to siblings or peers, or simply a temperament prone to negative self-evaluation. It's not usually caused by one big thing but by many small ones that add up over time.

What helps: consistent unconditional positive regard, helping kids notice their own competence, limiting criticism and comparison, and making sure they have at least one area where they experience mastery. Self-worth is built through experience, not through being told you're worthy.

Signs to Watch

•Makes frequent negative self-statements
•Deflects compliments or doesn't believe praise
•Compares themselves unfavorably to others
•Gives up easily because they expect to fail
•Seems overly affected by criticism or feedback
•Has difficulty identifying their own strengths

Stories

Milo's Super Helmet

A gentle story for babies and toddlers who wear cranial helmets, helping them feel special and loved.

The Opposite Day

Today, Zoe decided to do everything opposite. Usually she stayed quiet—today she spoke. Usually she sat in back—today, the front. It felt weird. But also... kind of good.

The Little Voice Inside

Mia has a voice in her head. Sometimes it's kind. Sometimes it's mean. She learns she doesn't have to believe everything it says—she can talk back.

Saving for Something Special

After the fire, they didn't have much. But every coin went in the jar. It took a long time. When they finally bought the couch, it wasn't just a couch—it was proof they could make it.

The Kid With the Reputation

Everyone knew Jordan was trouble. But nobody knew why. When his new teacher asked—really asked—Jordan told her about the move, the divorce, the too-many-changes. Understanding changed everything.

The Kid Who Couldn't Sit Still

Dani wiggles. Always. Teachers say 'sit still.' But Dani's body needs to move. Finally, someone shows Dani that moving and learning can happen together.

Maybe I'm Not the Bad Kid

Everyone calls Devon the bad kid. But Devon isn't bad—he's struggling. When someone finally asks 'what's wrong?' instead of 'why are you like this?'—everything changes.

Good Enough Is Good Enough

Mia's drawing didn't look right. Not like she imagined. She wanted to crumple it up—until her little brother said 'I love it.' Maybe it didn't have to be perfect.

I Can't Draw

'I can't draw,' said Eli, staring at the blank page. His teacher said, 'Make a mark and see where it takes you.' One line led to another. It wasn't perfect—but it was his.

I'm Glad I'm Me

My nose is my nose. My laugh is my laugh. Nobody else is exactly like me—and that's not a problem. That's the whole point.

Everyone Makes Mistakes (Even Grown-Ups)

Mom burned dinner. Dad got lost. Teacher spelled a word wrong. Mistakes aren't proof that you're bad—they're proof that you're human.

The Bear Who Stayed in the Cave

Bea the bear loved her cave. Outside was too bright, too loud, too much. But when she takes one tiny step—just to the entrance—she realizes outside was waiting for her all along.

Do I Have to Share Everything?

Amara is tired of sharing. Her toys, her snacks, her mom's attention. Then she learns: some things are for sharing, and some things are just hers. Both are okay.

I Didn't Mean to Forget

Omar forgot his homework. Again. He didn't mean to—his brain just let it slip. Mom helps him make a 'remember spot' by the door. Forgetting isn't bad; it just needs a system.

Too Much, Too Fast, Too Loud

Everything Dex does is TOO MUCH. Too loud, too fast, too wild. He hears 'stop' a hundred times a day. But at bedtime, Mom says the thing he needs most.

What I Wish for You

I wish you more hugs than hurts. More try-agains than give-ups. More 'I can' than 'I can't.' These are the things I wish for you—every single day.

The High Slide

Nina has watched the high slide all summer. Today, she climbs. Her legs shake. Her tummy flips. Dad waits at the bottom. One breath. She goes.

I'll Love You When You're Grumpy

I'll love you when you're grumpy. When you yell, when you cry, when you slam the door. My love doesn't have conditions. It's just there—always.

Do You Love Us the Same?

With three kids in the family, Ella wondered: does Mom have enough love? Does she love the baby more? Mom explained: Love isn't pie. It doesn't run out.

More Than You Know

"I love you THIS much," said Zoe, stretching her arms wide. "I love you MORE," said Dad. "To the moon and back?" "To the moon, around the stars, and all the way home."

The Worry That Followed Me Home

A small worry follows Ben home from school. The more he ignores it, the bigger it grows. When he finally tells Dad about it, the worry shrinks—small enough to carry.