Overcoming Mistakes

Children may be excited to try many new things, but they can feel disappointed when situations don’t go their way. As kids learn how to control their emotions, making mistakes will be less upsetting.

If you notice kids struggling with mistakes, here are some ways to respond:

• Assure them that mistakes are part of learning, and that everyone makes mistakes—even you!
• Remind kids that the way to get better at something is to practice doing it. Talk about other things they’ve gotten good at because they practiced.
• Give kids a superhero name and let them know they have the power to figure things out. When they get upset about a mistake, say, “This sounds like a job for [child’s superhero name]!”
• When you confront your own mistakes, try to manage your emotions. Let kids hear you say aloud as you solve a problem, “First I’ll do this, then I’ll do…”