Our Preschool team has the privilege of witnessing preschoolers take their first steps into learning before they reach formal schooling. It is a joyful time, but it can also bring moments of frustration, especially for preschoolers with early literacy difficulties. As parents, watching your child struggle can be tough, but these experiences are crucial for building resilience and a love for learning.

We often focus on what our children need to learn before starting Primary school, but how they learn to navigate difficulties is just as important. Here is how you can help your preschooler embrace challenges and build unwavering confidence in their learning journey:

1. Acknowledge and Validate Feelings

When your child says, “I can’t do it!” or expresses frustration, resist the urge to fix the problem or dismiss their emotions. Instead, acknowledge their feelings: “I see you’re feeling frustrated with that puzzle. It looks tricky.” This shows them it is okay to feel that way and that you understand what they’re experiencing.

2. Foster a Growth Mindset

This powerful concept encourages the belief that abilities can be developed through dedication and effort. For example, saying “You kept trying even when it was hard!” focuses on effort and persistence. Remind your child that mistakes are learning opportunities, not failures.

3. Celebrate Effort

While it is tempting to praise outcomes, acknowledging effort is even more valuable. Whether they follow through on an instruction or spend extra time trying to sound out a word, praise their persistence, concentration, and courage in trying something new. This reinforces that effort is worthwhile, regardless of the outcome.

4. Break Tasks into Mini-Steps

Difficult tasks can feel overwhelming. If your child is struggling with blending a word, try saying:
“Let’s sound out the first and second sound and blend them together.” Success in small steps builds confidence.

5. Provide Positive Reinforcement and Specific Praise

Be specific. Instead of saying “Good job” or “Well done,” try:

• “I heard you try to sound out that word. That was excellent effort!”
• “You remembered to pack the toys away after playing. Thank you!”

Specific praise helps children understand exactly what they did well and encourages repetition.

6. Model Resilience Yourself

Children learn by watching. When you face a challenge (like a recipe going wrong or difficulty opening a jar), let them see how you handle it: “Oops, this isn’t working the way I thought. Let me try a different way.” Your calm persistence models how to approach difficulties.

7. Encourage Breaks and New Approaches

Sometimes, a child just needs a break. Encourage stepping away from a frustrating task for a few minutes, or trying it differently. This supports self-regulation and problem-solving skills.

8. Prioritise Emotional Well-being

A child who feels safe, loved, and emotionally secure is better equipped to face learning challenges. Make sure they have plenty of time for free play, rest, and quality family time.