Any artist, scientist, athlete, or actor will tell you that failure is part of success. Mistakes can build resilience and character, but it can be tricky to help children realize this. When your child fails at school or in their extra-curricular activities, it can be tempting to protect them. However, you could be missing out on a teachable moment. This guide will provide some ways that you can turn setbacks into lessons. 

4 Ways Parents Can Make Failure a Teachable Moment

1. Allow Them to Fail

The only way your child can learn from failure is to fail in the first place. Rather than preventing all of their mistakes, allow your child to make them. While mishaps can be embarrassing at first, they will learn how to handle failure with grace. 

2. Demonstrate a Growth Mindset

Children learn from example, so show that you have a healthy relationship with failure. For example, after burning a tray of cookies at home, tell your child that you tried your best and are going to make another batch. Talk about what you learned from the experience. Even small demonstrations of a growth mindset can make an impact on your child. 

3. Ask Questions

Encourage your child to speak openly about their own failures, rather than shying away from the reality. Ask them what happened and how it made them feel. Talk about what they may have learned and what they can change next time. Start having these conversations when they are young, so they will feel comfortable discussing their mistakes throughout their school years. 

4. Embrace Laughter

Children tend to take failure quite seriously, and this is not always necessary. When you make a small mistake like spilling a glass of water on the floor, try to laugh it off. Your child will embrace your humor and learn to laugh at their own clumsy moments rather than holding on to what they cannot change.

The right education can help your child develop a healthy mindset in life. This is why parents in San Marcos, TX, area trust the staff at the Wonderland School to provide their sons and daughters with challenging curriculum and rewarding social activities. To learn more about enrollment at this 50-year old private school, visit their website or call (512) 392-9404. Mention that you found them online to receive a free gift.