Self-esteem plays a powerful role in how kids handle challenges, relationships, and self-doubt – but how can parents ensure confidence doesn’t come with being “the best?” Raising Us host Elise Hu is joined by Dr. Kristin Neff, associate professor of educational psychology at the University of Texas at Austin, to define self-esteem and share practical tips for building confidence at home. Also joining this episode is Nia Sioux, a dancer, singer and actress who's best known for her breakout role as an original cast member in Lifetime’s hit reality series Dance Moms. Nia talks with us about growing up in front of cameras, her best tips for practicing self-esteem and confidence, and more anecdotes from her new memoir, Bottom of the Pyramid. Key TakeawaysRemind yourself that your own opinion of yourself is what matters most.Reframe the idea of being at the bottom to mean an opportunity for learning and growth.Model self-esteem, kindness, and warmth to encourage your children to do the same.Rewire thought processes to encourage ourselves the same way we would encourage a close friend.Emphasize trying and learning rather than outcome.⏱️ Timestamps:Keep the conversation going at home with our FREE Conversation Kit companion guide: https://delivery.shopifyapps.com/-/e1bea0cf911a6b78/3f7d25b53f99ac38Follow Dr. Kristin Neff on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neffselfcompassionFollow Nia Sioux on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/niasiouxNew episodes every Tuesday:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AKidsCoApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/raising-us-a-parenting-podcast/id1552286967Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bIRVxM8hbriNxydkSv6VGOr wherever you get your podcasts.🔗 START HERE📌 Get free weekly conversation kits: https://akidsco.com/pages/raising-us📌 Browse A Kids Co. books that pair with episodes: https://akidsco.com📌 Follow Elise Hu: https://www.instagram.com/elisewhoABOUT THE SHOWRaising Us | Parenting Podcast for Kids, Tweens, & Conscious CaregiversAward-winning journalist Elise Hu (TED Talks Daily, Forever35) hosts Raising Us, a parenting podcast for grownups raising Big-Question Kids. From puberty and identity to tech and body image, each episode gives you tools to spark real conversations with the kids in your life.Created by A Kids Co. (a family media company) the show blends expert-backed insights with real, lived experiences featuring trusted doctors, educators and purpose-driven public figures sharing age-appropriate advice so you don't have to wing the hard stuff.Follow on:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AKidsCoApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/raising-us-a-parenting-podcast/id1552286967Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bIRVxM8hbriNxydkSv6VGOr wherever you get your podcasts.If you like parenting podcasts like Good Inside with Dr. Becky, The Longest Shortest Time, Raising Good Humans or Ask Lisa, this podcast is for you.Topics Covered on Raising Us:Parenting kids and tweensMental health for kidsTalking to kids about racism, identity, and inclusionScreen time and social mediaPuberty, anxiety, and big feelingsBuilding emotional intelligence in familiesConscious and values-driven parentingElise Hu parenting podcastA Kids Co. podcast series Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.