How can I correct my child’s mistakes without making them feel I’m putting them down? 

Here are a few tips from Miriam on how to correct your child’s mistakes and still leave them with a positive feeling.

• Make them feel secure. Get into the habit of telling your children precisely what they are doing right so they are confident in their abilities.
• Look for the half of the glass which is full, not the half which is empty. You may be surprised just how full it is!
• Don’t criticise the child themselves, only discuss their actions.
• Don’t make a big deal out of a mistake.
• Be constructive. When you do need to point out mistakes, first tell them what they have done right so they feel validated and successful, then they will be more willing to look at what isn’t so perfect.
• Ask for their opinion. Instead of pointing out mistakes and provoking a defensive response, ask your children what they can do to improve their work even more.
• Ask questions. Children learn by trying to solve problems. Ask questions that help the child come up with the answers themselves.
• Choose your moment. If the child does not respond positively, save your comments for another occasion when your child is more open to learning.