Teaching Your Students to Learn from Their Mistakes
By Kayla • April 3, 2018
While it's important to teach your students that we all make mistakes and that their error does not affect your opinion of them, it's also essential that children are taught to take responsibility for their actions and process their mistakes in order to learn from them.
As their teacher, you have a great opportunity to help them channel the frustration and disappointment they may be feeling into something more positive.
- Instead of simply telling your student what they did wrong, turn it into a learning experience by asking them what they think the problem is.
- Once the problem has been identified, invite your student to brainstorm how they might have avoided the situation or what they might have done differently.
- Lastly, have your student determine how to make it right (i.e. an apology to the wronged party, redoing the assignment, etc).
While they can't avoid mistakes altogether, your students can certainly learn how to handle those they do make, turning them into something more positive.
Additionally, it's important for your students to recognize that mistakes, when handled positively, are not something they should be ashamed of. That, in fact, they can be building blocks for success. Therefore, they shouldn't feel like they need to hide their mistakes from you. Show them that they can trust you to react in a controlled and helpful manner, holding them accountable for their actions, but also promoting an environment of honesty and understanding. Teach them that the best policy is to own up to their mistakes, make them right, and move forward!
About the Author
Kayla Johnson
Disclaimer: The content on this page is for informational purposes only and reflects the author's personal experiences and/or opinions. The author is not a financial advisor, medical professional, or licensed expert in any regulated field. Nothing on this page should be interpreted as financial, medical, or professional advice. This content is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions related to your finances, health, or other personal matters. The information provided here is shared in good faith, but individual circumstances vary, and what works for some people may not work for you. Results are not typical, implied, or guaranteed. While we strive for accuracy, information may become outdated or change over time. Statements made by guest authors reflect their own opinions and should not be interpreted as endorsements by SupplyMe.
Some of the links on this page may be affiliate or referral links, which means we may earn a commission or bonus if you use them. There’s no extra cost to you — and it’s a great way to support the site if you find the content helpful.