How to Help Your Child See Mistakes as Learning

Hi, I’m Dr. Kristi Briscoe.
ADHD kids often feel like mistakes = failure. They may shut down, melt down, or give up. But mistakes are actually how learning sticks.

Here’s how to help reframe them:

1. Respond with curiosity — “What do you think went wrong?”
2. Ask, not accuse — “What might you do differently next time?”
3. Celebrate effort to try again — Even if it didn’t work.
   

You can teach your child that mistakes are stepping stones—not stop signs.

This article is for educational purposes only and does not diagnose or treat any condition. Please seek help from a qualified mental health professional if you or a loved one is struggling.