How to Convey the Right Message When Your Child Makes Mistakes

No one is perfect – all of us make mistakes or experience setbacks in our lives. Our children are no different, because it is common for them to make mistakes too. It is essential for parents to convey the right message to the child when she makes a mistake. Where some parents might want to confront their child, others might want to address the reason behind the error. If you are looking for the different ways in which you can give out the right message to your child, read on.

How Can Parents’ Reactions Affect Kids?

Seldom do parents pay heed to the fact that their reactions to their child’s mistakes can affect their child in more ways than one. A parent’s reaction can help a child gain perspective towards a problem or mistake that she may face in her life.

In some studies conducted on several parents and their children, it was found that the way a child views intelligence is greatly influenced by her parent’s reaction to her failures. In other words, a child’s acceptance of her mistakes in a positive or negative manner is influenced by the way her parents view the same mistake.

How to Respond Correctly When Your Child Makes Mistakes

Failures are a part of life and not the end of the world; therefore, it is vital for parents to respond correctly to their child’s mistakes. Next time your kiddo makes a mistake, try responding in some of the following ways to help her overcome a setback:

1. Lay Emphasis on the Future

There is no point in sulking about the mistake that has already been made. Instead, what is important is to focus on what lies ahead. Explain to your child that there is a lot she will learn from her mistake, and she may not commit the same mistake in the future.

2. Pay Heed to Your Child’s Reaction

Some children may be content with the effort they put in, but others may feel too hurt from a setback. It is crucial that you let your child vent out her feelings, get over the setback, and plan out the best way to move ahead.

3. Never Pity Your Child

You can empathize, but don’t pity your child. When you pity your child, you are possibly indicating that you doubt her capabilities, which can impact her negatively. Instead, focus on what went wrong and try to fix it.

4. Pay Heed to the Effort and Not the Outcome

Every child is different and what matters is that you teach her to put in efforts. The outcome may be different for every child, and therefore, the focus should not entirely be on the outcome or the result, but the fact that your child had put in hard work.

5. Be an Observer

Sometimes when a child makes a mistake, she may be aware of what went wrong. She may even know how to mend it or deal with the situation. During such times, it becomes important for the parent to become an observer and see how their child tries to amend her mistakes. Letting the child deal with her problems in an effective way of showing that you trust her to make her own decisions.

6. Let Your Child Ask for Help

As parents, we have this innate need of coming to our child’s immediate rescue when we see her dealing with a problem. However, sometimes it’s important to exercise restraint and not intrude in your child’s business until she asks for your help. Let your child come to you for help before offering her a solution on your own.

7. Drift Away from the Problem for a While

Sometimes it may be in the best interest of your child to forget and set aside the problem for a while. You can indulge in some fun activities, such as going to the park, a movie, a shopping spree or anything that takes away the focus from the problem, so you can come back to it with a fresh take and solution.

8. Never Shame Your Child

Do not use hurtful words or shame your child for her mistakes or failures. This can adversely affect the psyche of a child. Always be encouraging and supportive towards your kid. No one ever likes to make mistakes, and the same applies to children – constantly nagging or reminding them of their mistakes may scar their young minds for life.

9. Reassure Your Child With Your Love

It is especially during difficult times that one needs to feel loved and reassured, and know that their loved ones are always beside them. Show her your love and compassion before looking for the solution to her mistake – your reassuring words will help your child sail through smoothly through difficult moments.

It may be difficult for the parents to see their child making a mistake and then dealing with the consequences, but your reaction may help your child a great deal in handling her mistakes.

Also Read: Thing Parents Do That Hurts Their Children