Helping Kids & Teens Overcome Negative Self-Talk & Build Confidence
It can be heartbreaking to hear kids say things like:
“I’m so stupid.”
“No one likes me.”
“I’ll never get it right.”
These words—though small—carry the weight of the inner critic: that internal voice that chips away at self-esteem and confidence.
But what if you could help your child change that voice?
What if there were simple, engaging tools to help them grow into more confident, self-compassionate humans?
That’s exactly why we created the Inner Critic Workbook—for teens who need help noticing, naming, and reframing negative self-talk.
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Why the Inner Critic Shows Up in Kids 🧠
Children start developing an inner voice early on, often modeled by:
- Social pressures at school
- Perfectionism in academics or sports
- Comparison on social media
- Harsh self-judgment after mistakes
If left unchecked, this voice can lead to long-term issues like anxiety, low self-worth, and avoidance.
Signs Your Teen May Be Struggling with Self-Criticism
🔍 Common indicators include:
- Saying “I’m dumb” after a small mistake
- Avoiding challenges or trying new things
- Difficulty accepting praise
- Harsh self-judgment over minor errors
- Constant comparison to others
- High perfectionist tendencies
- Low confidence in decision-making
A Workbook That Builds Emotional Awareness & Resilience ✨
Our Inner Critic Printable Workbook gives parents, teachers, and therapists tools to help teens:
✔ Identify negative self-talk
✔ Understand where it comes from
✔ Practice self-kindness and reframing
✔ Develop an inner mentor voice
✔ Build daily confidence with gentle reflection
What's Inside 📘
🧠 7 Types of Inner Critic Worksheet (includes visuals)
📝 Understanding your inner critic
💬 Rewrite the Script: Thought Reframing
💛 Controlling your inner critic
🎯 Challenging your inner critic
📘 Coping Strategies like Mindful Breathing
Activities are developmentally appropriate for ages 13 and up, and can be adapted for younger kids with parent support.
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How Parents Can Use It 👪
✅ During evening reflection or homework breaks
✅ As part of homeschool or SEL curriculum
✅ In family therapy or parent-child coaching
✅ To support kids navigating transitions (new schools, friends, etc.)
Just print what you need, when you need it. Keep the pages in a folder labeled “My Confidence Kit.”
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Don’t Miss These Freebies 🎁
🧠 7 Types of Inner Critic
→ https://lightandsaltdesignco.com/blogs/news/october-freebie-7-types-of-inner-critic
🧠 Self-Sabotage Reflection Sheet
→ https://lightandsaltdesignco.com/blogs/news/january-freebie-self-sabotage-sheets
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Get the Inner Critic Workbook Here 📥
These are perfect for 13 years and up.
→ https://lightandsaltdesignco.com/products/inner-critic-workbook-self-esteem-worksheets
🧠 Bonus Savings:
Also available in the Therapy Mega Bundle and the Self-Worth Mega Bundle (40% OFF each)!
Final Thought 💛
Your child’s voice matters.
And the words they say to themselves matter even more.
Help them build an inner world of resilience, compassion, and confidence—one printable page at a time.
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