---
title: How to rebuild self-esteem in the new school year
description: The academic slide caused by COVID has hit kids with learning challenges hard. Here’s how to help your child rebuild self-esteem and self-confidence.
slug: regain-self-esteem-in-new-school-year
author: Gail Belsky
published: '2021-07-12T21:19:36.300Z'
thumbnail: https://cdn-images.understood.org/p0qf7j048i0q/2lcrTUhSB0h0DOqwCRI8jj/4821f4d1ff194a34fad662c8f5e89b98/TIP_THREE_G1049267278.png
source_url: https://www.understood.org/en/articles/regain-self-esteem-in-new-school-year
lang: en
---

# How to rebuild self-esteem in the new school year

Kids across the United State have experienced a [major academic slide since COVID began](https://www.nationsreportcard.gov/). But certain student groups have lost ground more than others. That includes kids with learning challenges. 

Starting a new school year being behind can be hard for kids who’ve faced setbacks and worked hard to improve. They may feel defeated by further losses and think there’s no reason to keep trying. 

If your child has fallen behind, *you* might feel defeated, too. You may worry that your child won’t easily recover from these setbacks, academically or emotionally. 

But there are ways you can help your child regain [self-esteem](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/positive-self-esteem-kids-importance) and stay motivated, even with the COVID academic slide.

---

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