What to Do When Mistakes Make You Quake
Can kids learn to accept mistakes? Absolutely—and this updated workbook shows them how!
Mistakes can feel scary. For some kids, even small slip-ups can lead to big worries. Whether it’s a fear of being wrong, making a bad decision, or not meeting expectations, the pressure to be perfect can hold kids back. But it doesn’t have to.
What to Do When Mistakes Make You Quake is a revised edition of the trusted self-help guide that helps kids understand their fear of failure and learn how to bounce back with confidence. Through engaging activities, colorful illustrations, and expert strategies, this interactive workbook empowers kids to accept imperfection and keep moving forward.
Whether your child is afraid to try new things or gets stuck striving for perfection, this book offers a safe, encouraging space to explore mistakes—and discover the courage to learn from them.
Key features:
- updated edition with fresh content and illustrations to reflect today’s kids and families
- part of the trusted What-to-Do Guides for Kids series—used by parents, educators, and therapists for over 20 years
- perfect for kids ages 7–11 who struggle with perfectionism, decision-making, or fear of failure
- uses proven cognitive-behavioral techniques to help kids reframe mistakes and build resilience
- encourages self-compassion and a growth mindset through fun, hands-on exercises
- includes a guide for parents and caregivers to support kids in building emotional strength
- created by Magination Press, the children’s imprint of APA—trusted leaders in children’s mental health and well-being
Jacqueline B. Toner, PhD, is the co-author of several self-help books. She has been in private practice working with children, teens, and families for over thirty years. Dr. Toner earned her PhD from the University of Virginia and completed two post-doctoral programs (in pediatric psychology and adolescent medicine) at the University of Maryland Medical School. Dr. Toner also serves as lead facilitator and consultant on a project on medical ethics led by Johns Hopkins Hospital and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. She is the mother of three grown children and lives with her husband in Baltimore.
Janet McDonnell’s illustrations combine traditional media and digital techniques. In addition to illustrating books, magazines, and puzzles, Janet has both taught and written for children from preschool to high school ages. She is the illustrator of numerous books for children including Bye Bye Pesky Fly, What to Do When You Don't Want to Be Apart, and Blossom Plays Possum.
