How I teach students to be confident and how to set goals!
A struggle I usually see with at least a handful of students is having the confidence to succeed. This might be confidence on the playground to make new friends, ask to play, or stand up for themselves. It might also be confidence to answer the question that was just asked. It also might be confidence to just truly be themselves.
A few ways that I grow my students in this department is obviously with great picture books read alouds, but also with student goal setting and student-led conferences.
Student goal setting helps children take ownership of their learning by allowing them to identify areas for growth and track their progress. It encourages self-motivation and accountability, as students work toward clear, achievable targets. This process also builds confidence and fosters a growth mindset, as students learn that effort and persistence lead to improvement and success.
Student-led conferences in elementary school empower children to take ownership of their learning by reflecting on their progress and setting personal goals. This approach fosters communication skills and boosts confidence as students actively share their work and achievements with teachers and parents. It also encourages self-assessment, helping students develop a growth mindset and greater responsibility for their academic journey.
Here are my top 5 book recs for cultivating confidence in your classroom this school year:
- The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds [See more about this below!!]
In The Dot, a young girl named Vashti is convinced she can’t draw. Her art teacher encourages her to start with a simple dot, and from there, Vashti begins to explore her creativity and discover her unique abilities.
Confidence Lesson: This story teaches children that taking the first step, even if small, is the key to unlocking their potential. It encourages kids to believe in themselves and their abilities, even when they doubt their talents. - Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall
Jabari is determined to jump off the diving board but feels nervous. As he watches others jump, he builds up his courage with the help of his dad’s calming words. Eventually, Jabari takes the leap.
Confidence Lesson: This book illustrates how bravery doesn’t mean not being afraid, but rather facing your fears and trying anyway. It teaches children that overcoming self-doubt is a process, and with support and perseverance, they can achieve what they set out to do. - After the Fall by Dan Santat
In this follow-up to the classic Humpty Dumpty story, Humpty is afraid of heights after his great fall. Despite his fear, he gradually works toward overcoming it and eventually learns to fly.
Confidence Lesson: The story reinforces the idea that setbacks are a part of life, and what matters most is the courage to rise after a fall. It shows kids that resilience and self-belief can help them face their fears and move forward.
[BONUS: Check out this Podcast I did with the author, Dan Santat over on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you listen to Podcasts!] - She Persisted by Chelsea Clinton
She Persisted celebrates the stories of 13 women throughout history who persevered in the face of obstacles to achieve their goals.
Confidence Lesson: This inspiring book shows children, especially girls, the power of persistence and determination. It encourages them to stay confident in their dreams and to keep trying, even when the odds seem stacked against them. - Remarkably You by Pat Zietlow Miller
Remarkably You celebrates the uniqueness of every child, encouraging them to embrace their individuality and shine in their own way.
Confidence Lesson: This book teaches kids to be proud of who they are and to confidently express their talents and passions. It promotes the idea that being yourself is remarkable and helps instill self-worth and confidence in young readers.
Each of these books empowers children to believe in themselves, embrace challenges, and build their confidence in different ways.
BONUS: National Dot Day is coming! Here are 3 ideas to build confidence and celebrate with this book!
1. Dot Art Exploration
- Activity: After reading The Dot, provide students with blank paper and various art supplies (paint, markers, crayons, stickers, etc.). Encourage them to create their own “dot” art. Start with a simple dot, just like Vashti, and let them explore how they can expand on it with creativity. They can turn the dot into anything they imagine—a tree, a planet, an abstract design!
- Confidence Connection: Emphasize that there’s no “right” or “wrong” way to create. This reinforces the idea that their creativity and self-expression are valuable, boosting confidence in their artistic abilities.
2. “Make Your Mark” Classroom Gallery
- Activity: Create a classroom or school-wide art gallery inspired by The Dot. Have students contribute artwork based on dots, with each piece showing their unique interpretation. Hang up the artwork for everyone to see, showcasing the diversity and creativity in each student’s work.
- Confidence Connection: Publicly displaying their work encourages students to take pride in their creations, fostering a sense of accomplishment and boosting self-confidence.
3. Dot Day Story Sharing
- Activity: After reading The Dot, have students write or draw about a time when they were unsure about something but ended up succeeding after trying. They can share their stories in small groups or as a class. Pair this with dot stickers, where each student adds a dot to a collective “confidence tree” every time they share a story about overcoming self-doubt.
- Confidence Connection: By reflecting on their past successes and sharing them with peers, children are reminded of their ability to overcome challenges, which helps build self-esteem and encourages them to keep trying new things.
These activities tie into the themes of creativity, perseverance, and self-belief, making National Dot Day a celebration of confidence and expression!
In case you missed some links above, here are a few resources I use with my students to develop speaking and communication skills, Self-assess throughout lessons, and of course, a book list for you with all things SEL books with over 30 book recs and guiding questions,etc.
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