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When a child makes a mistake or fails to accomplish a certain goal, we must avoid any word or action which indicates that we consider him a failure. 'Too bad that didn't work.' 'I'm sorry it didn't work out for you.' We need to separate the deed from the doer.
Rudolf Dreikurs
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Children should be supported in their efforts, regardless of the outcome.

This quote emphasizes the importance of positive reinforcement in a child's development, suggesting that when children make mistakes or fail, adults should avoid labeling them as failures. Instead, we should focus on the actions and encourage children to learn from their experiences without feeling defeated or ashamed, fostering a growth mindset that separates their self-worth from their achievements.

Themes

ChildrenFailureSupportGrowthMindsetLearning

In practice

Example use cases

A teacher using this quote in a classroom to encourage students to embrace their mistakes as learning opportunities.

More from Rudolf Dreikurs

We cannot protect our children from life. Therefore, it is essential to prepare them for it. Feeling sorry for children is one of the most seriously damaging attitudes we can have. It so greatly demonstrates to them and to ourselves that we lack faith in them and their ability to cope with adversities.
Rudolf DreikursRead

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