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.

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:

  1. Saying “I’m dumb” after a small mistake
  2. Avoiding challenges or trying new things
  3. Difficulty accepting praise
  4. Harsh self-judgment over minor errors
  5. Constant comparison to others
  6. High perfectionist tendencies
  7. 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.

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.”

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

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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