The longer I teach health (specifically skills-based health), the more convinced I am that self-esteem and confidence are the absolute most important traits needed to live a whole and healthy life.

Yes, of course, kids need to learn how to communicate, be active, build healthy relationships, eat healthily, etc… to be “healthy.” But if we dig a little deeper, it’s clear each health skill we teach and promote is built on a foundation of self-esteem and confidence. And without either of these, the students’ ability to or interest in living those skills greatly diminishes.