Encouraging Decision-Making and Learning from Mistakes

Parent Tips| Communication
September 24, 2023•2 min read
Encouraging Decision-Making and Learning from Mistakes

Kids possess unique talents, perspectives, and abilities that deserve to be nurtured. One powerful way to do this is by allowing them the freedom to make decisions and learn from their mistakes. In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of empowering children, and provide actionable tips for parents, educators, and caregivers to create an inclusive and supportive environment.

Why Empowerment Matters

1. Building Confidence and Self-Esteem

Allowing kids to make decisions helps boost their confidence. When they see that their opinions and choices are valued, they develop a stronger sense of self-worth.

2. Fostering Independence

Encouraging autonomy enables children to develop essential life skills. It empowers them to navigate various situations, promoting self-sufficiency and independence.

3. Enhancing Problem-Solving Skills

Decision-making is a vital skill that transcends childhood—kids who are given the opportunity to make choices learn how to think critically and solve problems effectively.

4. Respecting Individual Preferences and Needs

Each child is unique, with their own set of preferences, strengths, and challenges. Allowing them to make decisions honors their individuality and respects their needs.


Tips for Empowering Kids

1. Provide Clear Choices

Offer a selection of options to children, making sure each choice is clear and manageable. This empowers them while still maintaining a structured environment.

2. Offer Guidance and Support

While autonomy is important, it's equally crucial to provide guidance when needed. Offer information, ask open-ended questions, and be available for discussions about their decisions.

3. Create a Safe Space for Mistakes

Mistakes are a natural part of learning. Encourage a supportive atmosphere where children feel comfortable making errors and learning from them without fear of judgment.

4. Celebrate Achievements, Big or Small

Acknowledge and celebrate the successes of children, regardless of their size or significance. This reinforces their sense of accomplishment and motivates them to continue making decisions.

5. Communicate Openly

Foster open communication channels. Encourage children to share their thoughts, concerns, and preferences, and listen attentively to what they have to say. Practice active listening skills while listening to your child.


Samantha’s mission is to strengthen, guide, and empower parents, children, and adults to develop emotional awareness, improve social skills, and gain effective coping skills resulting in improved peer relationships, increased family harmony, and a calmer & more relaxed demeanor. She is a board-certified music therapist, a Positive Discipline Parent Educator, and a registered Music Together teacher. She obtained a Bachelor of Science degree from Utah State University and completed her Masters of Music with a specialization in Music Therapy degree from Colorado State University. She is a Neurological Music Therapy Fellow and a Dialectical Behavior Therapy-informed Music Therapist. When she is not working, Samantha enjoys spending time with her husband, children, and extended family. They enjoy fishing, camping, and other outdoor adventures.

Samantha Foote

Samantha’s mission is to strengthen, guide, and empower parents, children, and adults to develop emotional awareness, improve social skills, and gain effective coping skills resulting in improved peer relationships, increased family harmony, and a calmer & more relaxed demeanor. She is a board-certified music therapist, a Positive Discipline Parent Educator, and a registered Music Together teacher. She obtained a Bachelor of Science degree from Utah State University and completed her Masters of Music with a specialization in Music Therapy degree from Colorado State University. She is a Neurological Music Therapy Fellow and a Dialectical Behavior Therapy-informed Music Therapist. When she is not working, Samantha enjoys spending time with her husband, children, and extended family. They enjoy fishing, camping, and other outdoor adventures.

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