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How to Raise Confident Kids: Self-Esteem Tips for Parents of Neurodiverse & Neurotypical Children
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Confidence is more than just a feeling — it’s the foundation for resilience, learning, relationships, and mental health. Yet for many children, especially neurodiverse kids with ADHD, autism, or sensory processing differences, building self-esteem can feel like climbing a mountain.
In this in-depth episode of The Mother-Son Podcast with Kim & Jake, we spend time exploring how parents can help their kids — both neurotypical and neurodiverse — grow into confident, resilient young people.
We cover:
✅ Why neurodiverse kids are at higher risk for low self-esteem
✅ The science of self-esteem and why it matters for lifelong wellbeing
✅ 12 expert-backed tips for raising confident kids (Child Mind Institute)
✅ Real-life strategies parents can use daily — like affirmations, journaling, memory boxes, and “Walls of Fame”
✅ How confidence protects children from bullying and negative peer pressure
✅ The role of unconditional love and modeling resilience as a parent
✅ Hands-on tools, from PositivePsychology.com activities to Big Life Journal strategies
✅ Free and low-cost resources for parents (Outschool, Child Mind Institute, Sesame Street, libraries, and more)
Whether your child is shy, struggles with perfectionism, or faces the added challenges of being neurodiverse, this episode offers practical takeaways to help them see their worth, celebrate effort, and face the world with courage.
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📚 References & Resources
- Martin, A. (n.d.). Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder and How It Can Impact a Child’s Social and Emotional Development. GenMindful. Retrieved from genmindful.com
- Child Mind Institute. (n.d.). 12 Tips for Raising Confident Kids. Retrieved from childmind.org
- Big Life Journal. (n.d.). Activities and Printables for Kids’ Confidence. Retrieved from biglifejournal.com
- Outschool.com
- PositivePsychology.com. (n.d.). Self-Esteem Worksheets for Kids and Teens. Retrieved from positivepsychology.com
- Sesame Street in Communities. (n.d.). Self-Confidence Resources. Retrieved from sesamestreetincommunities.org
- Zakreski, M. (2024). Neurodiversity Playbook: How Neurodivergent People Can Crack the Code of Living in a Neurotypical World. Retrieved from drmattzakreski.com
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