Today's Tip for Families

03-30-2025

Prevent Setbacks From Derailing Your Child

Setbacks can cause even the most positive kids to doubt themselves. Their self-esteem plummets because of a bad grade. Or they compare themselves to others and see themselves coming up short.

To help your child overcome setbacks and feel more confident:

Break down difficult tasks into smaller, less daunting steps your child can master. Your student will learn that one success can lead to another.
Teach problem-solving skills, like brainstorming and evaluating possible solutions. Then, let your child make some choices.
Criticize actions, not your child. Say, "You didn't pick up your dirty clothes." Not, "You're lazy and messy." This tells your child there is a better choice to make, without implying that there is something wrong with your child's character.
Role-play worries away. Let your child practice doing and saying challenging things until the tasks feel more comfortable.
Stifle negative comments about yourself. If you burn some food, say, "Oops. Next time I will pay more attention. I guess we'll have cereal tonight!" Not, "I'm so dumb. I can never do anything right."

Brought to you by:

Warren Independent School District