Creative confidence is believing in one’s ability to think in new ways, solve problems, and bring his/her ideas to life.

When a child trusts in his or her creativity and is willing to try experiments and learn how to practice self-leadership.

Experts argue that books inspire self-confidence in children by providing examples of characters that overcome challenges, celebrate uniqueness, and believe in themselves, which helps kids internalize messages of resilience and self-worth.

Ugo Anidi, a children’s books author, said that reading books builds a child’s confidence in several ways, such as boosting skills, imagination and creativity, empathy and social confidence, among others.

“As children practice reading, they get better at it, and this growing ability gives them confidence in school and beyond.

“Books expose children to new words, ideas, and worlds, helping them feel smarter and more capable of expressing themselves,” she said.

Anidi emphasised that characters who solve problems, face fears, or succeed against challenges inspire children to believe they can do the same.

According to the children’s book author, reading allows children to dream, imagine, and create, boosting their self-esteem as they share and explore their ideas.

“Finishing a book, even a small one, gives children a proud moment of accomplishment. By seeing different perspectives in stories, children learn to understand others, which strengthens their social skills and confidence in making friends,” she noted.

The author said that reading gives children the tools, models, and courage to believe in themselves.

Jacqueline Agweh, executive director, technical operations at Sanlam Allianz General Insurance Nigeria Limited, speaking at Sheevolution Africa’s 2025 summer camp said, “It’s a good for children, especially girls to develop their writing and reading skills, whether they’re going to be authors tomorrow or not, because for everyone to be able to write, she must be good at that.

“It’s a good thing to be able to put one’s thoughts to paper because she can develop the thoughts, and who knows it could become a best seller tomorrow.”

The author emphasised that young girls should embrace reading because it opens out their mind, and gives them knowledge that the other person will not necessarily have.

Sope Martins, an author and founder of the Kid Lit Foundation, emphasised that children are upskilled through reading and writing, hence they must be encouraged to read always.

“We upskill children with writing and reading, they tell their own stories, share their thoughts on a global front, which in turn shapes their future and that of the country.

“I believe that children’s imagination is crucial to their success in life, which books enhance; once you can imagine a better future for yourself, you can step into that future,” she said.

Martins further explained that story-telling skill improves children’s imagination and allows them to think beyond their current circumstances.

Experts believe that Nigeria can borrow a leaf from Malaysia, where various public and private educational institutions, ranging from preschools up to universities, are experimenting with outdoor reading classrooms.

According to The Star report, “These spaces, such as edible gardens or parks, allow students to explore subjects like Science, Mathematics, and Art more dynamically and interactively.

“More than just about plants and play, they represent a fresh and much-needed shift in how we educate our children.”

In addition, the report said that exercise emphasises sustainability and ecological awareness, which fosters a deep connection to the environment, promoting physical and mental wellbeing, inspires curiosity and creativity, and offers a holistic approach to education.

Though this comes with some measure of challenges, the Malaysian education authorities left no stone unturned in their efforts to make the exercise a success.