Self-Esteem Portraits (for kids ages 7 to 14)

Developing healthy self-esteem is an important part of a child’s development. Many children struggle to fnd positive qualities about themselves, which can result in difficulties socially, emotionally, and academically. Having positive self-esteem helps people have healthy relationships and supports their mental and emotional health.

Finding ways to help children practice thinking of positive things about themselves can be a great way to develop self-esteem. Follow the instructions below to help children create their own self-esteem portrait. These portraits not only help children to think about things they like about themselves, but also push them to think about what others may like about them, further stretching their understanding of themselves and their positive qualities.

How do I use Self-Esteem Portraits?

Print the worksheet below or use a blank sheet of paper and have the child draw an outline of their head, like in the image below.
Have the child take time to think about things they like about themselves. After they have come up with a few ideas, have the child write or draw pictures of these qualities on the inside of the outline of the head. Ask the child questions about these qualities. Which do they like the most? Which are they the proudest of?
*If the child is struggling with coming up with ideas, name some things you think are great about them to kickstart their ideas.
After the child has added qualities they like about themselves, ask them to think about what other people may like about them. Have them think about people like parents, siblings, teachers, friends, and others. Have the child write or draw these qualities on the outside of the head outline on the paper.
Reflect and ask questions with the child about the qualities on the inside and outside of the head outline. Do they match? Which ones feel most important to the child?
Ask the child if they would like to hang their portrait, to help remind themselves about their positive qualities. For example, they may want to hang it in their room or somewhere at their school, like a desk or locker.