Love to Learn – Encouraging Children to Embrace Mistakes

Mistakes aren’t setbacks — they’re stepping stones to growth. At Integricare, we see them as powerful opportunities for children to build resilience, confidence, and curiosity. In our Christian early learning centres across Sydney, we create environments where children feel safe to try new things, take risks, and learn through both successes and slip-ups. This reflection explores how giving children permission to make mistakes can open the door to deeper learning, stronger relationships, and a lifelong love for discovery.

Hands-On Learning and the Power of Play

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.

Permission to Try Again

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.

Life Lessons Beyond the Classroom

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

Faith-Based Learning That Builds Confidence

At Integricare, we integrate these values into our daily programs. By creating a safe and encouraging environment, our educators help children develop resilience, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. Every child is given the space to try, fail, and try again – knowing they are supported every step of the way.

Looking for Christian Childcare Centres, Preschools or Early Learning in Sydney?

We offer faith-based early learning programs for children from six weeks to school age, with long day care and preschool services available at our:

• Childcare centre in Ashfield
• Preschool in Auburn
• Early learning centre in Blacktown
• Preschool in Brighton Le Sands
• Childcare centre in North Strathfield
• Early learning centre in Northmead
• Early learning centre in Northbridge
• Childcare centre in Parramatta
• Preschool in Pendle Hill
• Childcare centre in Rockdale Plaza
• Early learning centre in Rockdale
• Preschool in St Ives
• Preschool in Strathfield
• Early learning centre in Turrella

Give your child a meaningful start at an Integricare preschool, early learning centre or child care centre near you. Enquire today to find the perfect program for your family.