Some days, parenting feels like an Olympic sport.
You want your kids to feel like world champions, but the hurdles? Shyness, self-doubt, tricky friendships, and that terrifying thing called “public speaking.”
If you’re searching for ways to help your child build confidence (and maybe sneak in a cup of tea while you’re at it), Disney movies can help. No, really—they’re more than just catchy songs and talking animals.
Each one sparkles with life lessons about courage, self-worth, and stepping up, all wrapped in a story your little ones actually want to hear.
No need to schedule a parenting seminar. Popcorn and a remote will do the trick.
Here are 12 Disney films that help kids see themselves as the heroes of their own stories.
1. The Lion King and the Roar of Self-Belief
A young lion who’d rather chase bugs than responsibility, Simba runs away after tragedy strikes. For a while, he hides from his past (and his future).
But when his cheeky meerkat and warthog pals aren’t enough to drown out self-doubt, Simba discovers the courage to face his fears, set things right, and claim his place.
Watching Simba falter, then rise, teaches kids that it’s okay to make mistakes—what matters is having the guts to try again.
According to child development experts at the Child Mind Institute, stories about overcoming adversity help children learn resilience and self-confidence.
If your child is stuck in “I can’t” mode, Simba’s journey might just nudge them toward “I’ll give it a go.”
Bonus: The tunes are infectious, and you’ll be singing “Hakuna Matata” in your sleep.
2. Moana and the Quest for Self-Discovery
Moana is told—repeatedly—to stay put and play it safe. But something inside won’t let her. She sets sail, faces storms, monsters, and a demigod with a massive ego, all because she believes she’s meant for more.
Your child doesn’t need to cross the ocean to feel inspired. Moana’s refusal to let fear shrink her dreams is a masterclass in self-advocacy.
Every time she trusts her instincts, she models taking risks, learning from setbacks, and finding her own voice.
If you’re raising a child who’s anxious about trying new things, Moana is proof that courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s sailing into the unknown anyway.
3. Frozen and Embracing What Makes You Different
Elsa hides her magic, convinced it’s a flaw. Anna barrels in, refusing to let her sister stay in icy isolation. The world of Frozen is all about melting the walls we build around ourselves.
Elsa’s journey—transforming self-doubt into self-acceptance—shows kids that uniqueness isn’t a curse; it’s a gift.
Dr. Kristin Neff, a leader in self-compassion research, highlights that acknowledging our differences (and loving them) helps children feel more empowered and less anxious.
If your little one is worried about standing out, Frozen reminds them that being themselves is the most powerful magic of all.
4. Mulan and the Strength to Stand Up
Mulan literally steps into a man’s shoes—well, boots—to save her father and her country. She doesn’t fit anyone’s expectations. She’s not the “proper” daughter. She’s definitely not a trained warrior.
But what she is? Brave. Persistent. Determined to do what’s right, even when it’s hard.
Mulan’s journey shows kids that confidence isn’t born from being perfect, but from doing your best under pressure, learning from mistakes, and picking yourself up after a tumble (or two, or three).
Kids who see Mulan fail—and keep trying—are more likely to keep going themselves, even when the odds aren’t stacked in their favour.
5. Finding Nemo and Braving the Big, Wide World
Nemo starts off as the smallest fish in the sea, overprotected by his anxious dad after a traumatic loss. But curiosity gets the better of him (as it does), and suddenly he’s got to navigate sharks, jellyfish, and, scariest of all, the dentist’s office.
Watching Nemo tackle each challenge—even when he’s scared—teaches kids that confidence grows one small step at a time. Along the way, Marlin, his dad, learns to loosen the reins and let Nemo try, fail, and try again.
For parents struggling to give their kids some independence, this one’s a gentle nudge to let them swim a little further out of the nest.
It’s also a good excuse to chant “Just keep swimming” on repeat when your own day goes sideways.
6. Brave and the Courage to Speak Up
Merida isn’t your average princess. She’s more likely to win an archery contest than a beauty pageant. Her biggest battle? Getting her mum to see things her way (sound familiar?).
Brave is all about forging your own path, even when everyone around you thinks you’re off your rocker.
Merida’s story helps kids see that voicing opinions, standing up for themselves, and apologising when they mess up are all signs of strength.
If your child balks at confrontation or struggles to say how they feel, Brave is a lesson in respectful rebellion and honest communication.
7. Big Hero 6 and Building Confidence Through Connection
Hiro is a brilliant kid inventor, but grief and loneliness knock him off course. Enter Baymax, a marshmallow-shaped healthcare robot with a knack for mending more than just physical injuries.
With his quirky band of friends, Hiro learns that courage is easier to muster with support.
According to research from the Greater Good Science Center, strong relationships help kids feel more capable and confident.
Big Hero 6 shows children that it’s okay to lean on others, ask for help, and face challenges as a team. For families, it’s a reminder that resilience isn’t a solo sport.
8. Zootopia and Challenging Doubters
Judy Hopps always wanted to be a police officer, but in Zootopia, bunnies are supposed to stick to carrots. The naysayers are relentless, but Judy’s got hustle—and a really big heart.
Judy’s slog through discrimination and doubt shows kids that confidence sometimes means tuning out critics and doubling down on effort.
Her success isn’t handed to her; she earns it through stubborn optimism and grit.
For children who feel underestimated (or who have ever been called “too small”), Judy’s story is a furry, fast-paced reminder to never let someone else’s expectations set your limits.
9. Tangled and Stepping Into the Light
Rapunzel spends much of her life locked away, told the world is too dangerous. But curiosity (and a frying pan) lead her to escape and discover who she really is.
As she faces new experiences with wide-eyed wonder, Rapunzel gradually trades fear for confidence. Her willingness to try, fail, and laugh at herself is a helpful model for anxious kids.
Child psychologists at the Child Mind Institute suggest that children who see characters confront fears head-on are more likely to develop “can-do” attitudes themselves.
Plus, there’s a horse with an attitude problem. What more could you want?
10. Coco and Finding Your Voice
Miguel loves music, but his family has a strict “no guitar strumming” policy. He’s torn between loyalty and his own dreams—until a trip to the Land of the Dead helps him finally speak up.
Coco celebrates honoring your roots while bravely forging your own way. Miguel learns that confidence often means expressing what you love, even if others don’t understand.
For kids who struggle to voice their passions, Coco is a colourful, toe-tapping reminder that their dreams deserve to be heard.
11. Encanto and Celebrating Individual Strength
The Madrigal family has a magical gift for everything—except for Mirabel, who feels decidedly ordinary. As family secrets unravel, Mirabel steps up, proving that you don’t need superpowers to make a difference.
Encanto teaches children that confidence doesn’t mean being the best; sometimes it means being yourself, imperfections and all.
Mirabel’s empathy, persistence, and bravery show that every child brings something special to the table—even when it’s not what anyone expected.
If your child sometimes feels “left out,” Encanto is a loving nudge that their value isn’t measured by trophies or talent shows.
12. The Incredibles and the Power of Staying True to Yourself
The Parr family spends their days hiding their superpowers, until the world needs them to be, well, incredible.
Each family member grapples with insecurity: Violet wants to disappear (literally), Dash is afraid to shine too bright, and Mr. Incredible isn’t sure he’s enough without his old glory days.
Watching the Incredibles embrace their strengths—and admit their weaknesses—shows children that confidence is about authenticity.
Families who cheer each other on, quirks and all, tend to raise kids who feel secure enough to take risks and try new things.
Plus, the suits are pretty snazzy.
Screen Time With a Side of Self-Esteem
Every child’s confidence grows in its own way.
Sometimes, the right story at the right moment can plant a seed—one that says, “You can do hard things,” or “Being different is wonderful,” or simply, “You are enough.”
Next time your little one wants a movie night, try one of these Disney gems.
You might find that between the laughs, the songs, and the popcorn crumbs, they start seeing themselves as the hero of their own adventure.
And maybe, just maybe, you’ll borrow a little bit of that magic for yourself.
