8 Simple Ways to Help Girls Feel More Confident in Group Settings

Because Every Girl Deserves to Be Seen, Heard & Celebrated

Let’s talk real for a second—being part of a group can feel exciting and intimidating, especially for tween and teen girls. Maybe they’re worried about fitting in, saying the wrong thing, or just being too much or not enough. That self-doubt? It’s real. And it can hold girls back from showing up fully as themselves.

But here’s the good news: with just a few simple shifts, you can create a group environment where girls feel safe, supported, and confident enough to raise their hands, speak their truth, and shine.

Whether you’re leading a girls’ group, running workshops, or coaching one-on-one, these 8 tips will help every girl feel more at ease, more empowered, and more connected.

💡 Key Takeaways

• Confidence blossoms in spaces that feel safe, kind, and nonjudgmental

• Group leaders set the tone—your warmth and inclusivity matter more than any script

• Small, thoughtful practices can make a big difference in how girls show up

• The goal isn’t to change girls—it’s to create an environment where they feel safe being who they already are

1. Set the Vibe with a Group Agreement

Start every session by co-creating a few group values—like listening without interrupting, cheering each other on, or being kind to yourself and others. This creates a shared sense of belonging and safety, right from the start.

📝 Try writing these on a poster and having girls sign it as a visual reminder.

2. Use Gentle Icebreakers (That Aren’t Too Cringe)

Some girls love to speak up, others prefer to observe. Meet them where they’re at with low-pressure icebreakers like:

• “Would You Rather” questions

• Pass-the-object name games

• Silent line-ups (e.g., by birth month or favorite color)

🌈 Keep it light and let participation feel like an invitation, not an expectation.

3. Give Everyone a Role (Big or Small)

Having a job—like timekeeper, affirmation reader, or playlist DJ—helps girls feel like they belong. Roles also give quieter girls a way to contribute without having to be center stage.

🎧 Tip: Rotate roles so everyone gets a turn in the spotlight in their own way.

4. Celebrate Effort, Not Just Achievement

Whether it’s trying something new, speaking up, or simply showing up with courage—celebrate it! Highlight brave behavior and kindness, not just big wins.

💬 Say things like:
“I noticed how you encouraged your partner—so powerful.”
“That was brave of you to share. Thank you.”

5. Use Pair & Share Moments

Instead of big group discussions, try turning and talking with a partner first. This makes it easier for shy or unsure girls to gather their thoughts and feel heard without pressure.

🤝 Confidence grows when girls feel safe to speak in smaller steps.

6. Normalize Mistakes and Imperfections

Be open about your own awkward moments, flubbed words, or nervousness. When girls see that you don’t have to be perfect to lead, they learn that confidence is about courage—not flawlessness.

✨ Reminder: Vulnerability is magnetic and confidence-building.

7. Create Rituals of Recognition

End every session with a quick share-out or “shine moment” circle:

• “Something I’m proud of today is…”

• “A win I had this week was…”

These rituals build reflection, resilience, and a positive group identity.

🌟 Let girls affirm themselves—it’s a powerful habit to practice.

8. Lead with Heart, Not Perfection

You don’t need the perfect script or Pinterest-worthy setup. What matters most is your energy, empathy, and encouragement. Girls remember how you made them feel—seen, valued, and confident in their own skin.

💖 Your authenticity gives them permission to be theirs.

🌟 Ready to Lead with Confidence?

If you’re ready to create a space where every girl feels empowered, connected, and fearlessly herself, check out our Shine From Within Workshop Kit. It’s packed with powerful self-esteem activities, journaling prompts, printable affirmations, and everything you need to lead your next workshop or girls’ group with heart.

You’ve got what it takes to help girls feel confident—not just in your group, but out in the world. And we’re here to cheer you on every step of the way. 💛

Which tip are you going to try first? I’d love to hear what lands most with your group!