Psychologist recommends better phrases than 'You can do it' to build child resilience

When children express frustration by saying they cannot do something, parents commonly respond with 'You can do it' as encouragement. However, psychologist Annie Simpson warns that this phrase can inadvertently dismiss a child's emotions and cause conflict. She recommends alternatives such as 'Not yet' and 'What's the first tiny piece' to nurture a growth mindset. These responses validate how the child feels while guiding them toward small, achievable steps. Over time, this approach is said to build stronger confidence and resilience in young learners.