Being corrected is never fun, but for some kids even the most constructive criticism can feel like a personal attack. Children with mental health or learning challenges may be especially sensitive to negative feedback. Instead of hearing what needs to be improved, they might hear rejection: “My teacher (or my coach, or my friend) hates me!”

This week we take a look at how parents can help kids handle criticism without getting upset, and learn from their mistakes instead of feeling discouraged. We also explore how to raise confident kids, why it’s important not to protect kids from failure and how we can teach them to take embarrassment in stride.

– Caroline Miller, Editorial Director | ✉