The Magic of Mistakes: How Errors Help Your Child Grow
Alisha Williamson, Ed.S.
Even your easy-going child might secretly struggle with perfectionism. When kids fear making mistakes, learning becomes stressful instead of exciting. The solution? Developing a growth mindset.
Things to Think About:
Praise effort, not outcome: "I love how hard you worked on this!" instead of, "You're so smart!"
Celebrate the journey: Focus on improvement and perseverance rather than grades or natural talents
Reframe failures: Help them see mistakes as valuable learning opportunities, not proof they're "bad" at something
Validate feelings first: "I know you're disappointed about this grade. Let's look at what we can learn for next time"
Key Takeaway:When we praise natural abilities, we unintentionally teach kids that challenges mean they're not gifted enough. When we praise effort, we teach them that growth comes through persistence—a lesson that serves them for life.
The Magic of Mistakes: How Errors Help Your Child Grow
Alisha Williamson, Ed.S.
Even your easy-going child might secretly struggle with perfectionism. When kids fear making mistakes, learning becomes stressful instead of exciting. The solution? Developing a growth mindset.
Things to Think About:
Praise effort, not outcome: "I love how hard you worked on this!" instead of, "You're so smart!"
Celebrate the journey: Focus on improvement and perseverance rather than grades or natural talents
Reframe failures: Help them see mistakes as valuable learning opportunities, not proof they're "bad" at something
Validate feelings first: "I know you're disappointed about this grade. Let's look at what we can learn for next time"
Key Takeaway:When we praise natural abilities, we unintentionally teach kids that challenges mean they're not gifted enough. When we praise effort, we teach them that growth comes through persistence—a lesson that serves them for life.
BelayTM content is for educational purposes and is not a replacement for one-on-one therapy or medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition or replace the relationship with a medical expert. If you are in crisis or have an emergency, please call 911 or the Suicide Crisis Hotline at 988
