Helping kids build courage doesn’t have to be boring! With a little creativity, you can turn bravery-building into fun games and activities that your kids will actually enjoy.
From adventure games to storytelling sessions, here are 12 awesome ways to help your kids feel like superheroes.
1. Use stories of courage
Reading stories like "Peter the Brave Elephant" can really inspire kids to face their fears. For example, Laura and Carlos realized their son Diego was avoiding new things.
But after reading about Peter’s bravery on the Storybook App, Diego started trying new activities, from playing a new sport to speaking up in class.
Who knew an elephant could inspire so much courage?
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Share this story and watch your kids start tackling challenges with confidence! Read this story with your children and inspire them to face their fears and be brave like Peter!
2. Positive affirmation journals
Encourage your kids to start a positive affirmation journal—it's like giving their self-esteem a daily workout.
Try the "You Are Brave" affirmations in the Storybook App and begin each morning with empowering phrases like "I can handle anything!"
Give it a go, and watch them embrace their courage!
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These positive statements help build confidence, preparing children to face new challenges with determination.
3. Courage bingo
Turn courage into a game with bravery bingo! Fill the bingo card with fun challenges like “Try a new food” or “Talk to someone new”
Every time your child completes a brave task, they mark it off on the card. Once they hit bingo, reward them with something special (ice cream, anyone?).
It’s a sneaky way to help them face fears and feel proud of it!
Consider pairing this with gratitude activities for kids, as courage and gratitude work together to build a balanced mindset.
4. Role-playing scenarios
Role-playing scenarios are like a dress rehearsal for real life! Set up pretend situations like giving a speech or standing up to a scary monster (aka, Dad with a towel cape).
Let your kids practice handling different situations without pressure.
Bonus points if you throw in silly voices or costumes. It’s all about having fun while learning how to be courage!
This activity complements kindness activities for kids, as practicing empathy and courage can go hand-in-hand.
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5. Courage challenges
Start small with bravery challenges and watch your kids take on the world.
Maybe today’s challenge is trying a new hobby, and next week, it’s asking a question in class.
Little by little, these small steps will have them ready to conquer bigger challenges.
Just don’t be surprised when they suddenly think they’re ready to bungee jump off the couch.
Combine this with perseverance activities for kids to help them keep pushing forward, even when things are tough.
6. Adventure games
Plan some adventure games like scavenger hunts or obstacle courses that push your kids to be courage in a fun way.
Not only will they be having the time of their lives, but they’ll also be practicing problem-solving and courage.
Plus, who doesn’t love the thrill of a backyard treasure hunt?
This can pair well with patience activities for kids, as patience and courage are both crucial in overcoming challenges.
7. Public speaking practice
Help your child overcome their fear of public speaking by making it fun and low-pressure.
Ask them to recite their favorite joke or story in front of the family, then gradually increase the “audience” to a few friends or classmates.
Extra points if you add some goofy props or a mini-stage.
Before long, they’ll be ready for the school talent show—whether they have talent or not!
8. Confidence building crafts
Get creative with confidence-building crafts. Let your kids make "I Am Brave" posters or decorate a courage jar where they can stash notes about times they’ve done something brave.
Not only will this boost their self-esteem, but it’ll also make them feel proud every time they look at their masterpiece.
Arts and crafts just got a whole lot more empowering!
This can be combined with integrity activities for kids, encouraging them to feel good about their brave and honest actions.
9. Team challenges
Jump into team challenges like relay races or group puzzles.
Not only do these activities show that courage often comes from working together, but they’re also great for teaching kids how to step up and support each other.
Who knew solving a giant puzzle could be a lesson in bravery and teamwork?
Add in some breathing activities for kids to help your child stay calm and focused while working through challenges.
10. Keep a challenge journal
Encourage your kids to keep a challenge journal where they write down the moments they faced their fears or tried something new.
Looking back at their brave moments will make them feel like superheroes in training.
Plus, it’s always fun to re-read the day they decided to try Brussels sprouts (and lived to tell the tale).
This works well with grounding activities for kids, helping kids reflect on their accomplishments and stay grounded in the present.
11. Storytelling sessions
Create family storytelling sessions where your kids share their bravest moments.
Use "A Story for the Brave" on the Storybook App to inspire them to talk about their fears and how they overcame them.
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It’s amazing how much confidence comes from sharing stories, especially when they’re about courage!
12. Outdoor adventures
Take the fun outside with outdoor adventures like hiking or climbing. These activities help your child face challenges in nature while feeling like an explorer.
There’s something about climbing a hill or spotting a new bird that makes kids feel like they’ve conquered the world—without even realizing they’re building courage!
This outdoor fun can also be paired with responsibility activities for kids, teaching kids to take responsibility for their actions while exploring nature.
How can courage activities benefit my child?
Courage activities build confidence, resilience, and problem-solving skills while helping kids learn to manage anxiety.
They also help your child feel proud of themselves for trying new things, even when they’re nervous.
How often should courage activities be practiced?
Courage activities should be practiced regularly but at your child’s pace.
You can incorporate them into daily routines with small challenges or weekly fun activities that gradually help your child build confidence.
How do I measure my child’s progress in courage activities?
Measure progress by looking for small victories—like when your child tries something new, even if they’re nervous.
You can also track their growth through a journal or simply by celebrating those brave moments with high-fives, hugs, or a fun reward!
Consider pairing courage-building activities with optimism activities for kids, encouraging children to stay positive and brave in new situations.
Written By
Entrepreneur mum. I created Storybook: Bedtime Stories the #1 app in over 90 countries. I have been able to help families with the app and through my social media influence. I also created a Facebook group with over 12,000 moms where we support each other.
Medically Reviewed by:
Dr. Lorena Koppel is a distinguished Child Clinical Psychologist based in Azuay, Ecuador, with over 26 years of experience at Monte Sinaí Hospital. She specializes in treating emotional disorders in children and adolescents, providing family counseling, and integrating theoretical and practical approaches in clinical psychology.
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