Last week we did an activity with the children which involved making “clouds” and “sky” with water, dye and shaving cream. The children had a lot of fun, and while they learnt many skills during this activity, the most important skill of all was taught when a few of the children spilled the water.

After they had missed their mark and poured water onto the table, I was able to reassure them; it was ok and to have another try. They were able to make mistakes without shame or guilt and to improve their skill.

If we do this as educators and parents for our children, we will create an environment which will give the child permission to make mistakes so they can strive to do new challenges. If they are scolded when they do the wrong thing, they are less likely to try new things and venture into unknown territories.

When my children were younger, I’d send them off to camp; knowing they would be trying new things and some of that may mean pushing boundaries and getting into trouble. So, I’d give them ‘the talk’ on the way to camp. If they got into trouble for doing the wrong thing, I told them to just ‘own it’, it’s far better to learn than to lie.

I gave the children permission to fail, I wanted them to know they are still learning as a child. In the end I’d hope that as adults we all still have that same attitude with ourselves and with each other. That we continue to strive and try new things and allow others to do the same.

Not offering judgements and criticism when others fail, but grace and encouragement to ‘try again tomorrow.’

Blessings, Vetti x