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Life isn’t a series of constant successes; rather, it is a journey filled with attempts, failures, and eventual victories. This concept is crucial for children as they navigate their growth and development. From their first steps—where tumbles are inevitable—to more complex challenges in school and social life, children must learn resilience.
Angela Mattke, M.D., a pediatrician at Mayo Clinic Children’s Center, provides insights into how parents can encourage their children to embrace challenges and persist in their efforts.
“As your child gets older, you’ll help them take on bigger and more complex endeavors—physically, mentally, and emotionally. There will be more falls and even some face plants, no doubt,” says Dr. Mattke. “But your job as a parent is to help your child get back up and try again.”
Tips for Encouraging Perseverance in Children
To prepare children for life’s inevitable setbacks, Dr. Mattke suggests:
- Emphasizing the Learning Process: Teach your child that the process of acquiring a skill is as valuable as the skill itself. Failure should not be feared but seen as part of growth.
- Normalizing Failure: Help your child view failure as a natural consequence of learning and exploring new challenges.
- Validating Emotions: Acknowledge when a situation is frustrating or disappointing. Let them know that it is okay to feel upset and that these emotions are a part of learning.
- Encouraging Problem-Solving: Guide your child in thinking about ways to improve or overcome difficulties rather than dwelling on setbacks.
- Sharing Personal Experiences: Relate stories of your own failures and what you learned from them. This can help normalize setbacks and show that growth follows challenges.
- Leading by Example: Demonstrate a willingness to try new things yourself, even those outside your comfort zone. Your resilience can inspire them to do the same.
By fostering an environment where effort is valued and setbacks are not feared, parents can help children develop the persistence and confidence needed to face challenges throughout life.
For more expert parenting advice and resources, visit Mayo Clinic Press and MayoClinic.org.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding personal health concerns.
