None of us like to think of our little one’s feeling left out or disappointment, and while we can’t prevent it happening, teaching them how to handle it better will benefit them in later life.
Don’t jump in to fix the problem
A time will come when your little one will have to deal with certain problems on their own; you can’t be there all the time. Encourage them to offer their two cents about how they would like to deal with it rather than you going in telling them what they should feel or what they should do. You need to turn the negative experience into a teaching one.
Tell them you understand
It is important your little one doesn’t feel like they are only ones to feel rejected. Talk to them about times you were left feeling disappointed or left out, and tell them how you handled the situation. Reassuring them that they aren’t the only ones to feel like this will help them deal with things a lot.
Be a non-judgmental, listening ear
You need to be your little one’s sanctuary and safe haven, so listen to them without judgement. Don’t slate others or call them names for leaving your child out. Instead focus in on how your little one is feeling and be the person they can come to when they need a listening ear.
Look at their best attributes
After all their hard work it can be hard for your little one to not get the lead role in the play or have their art work chosen for an exhibition. So talk to your child about things that you admire about them, focusing in on positive times in their life. This way, while they were rejected now, they will know that they can win some and lose some.
Teach them to try again
Just like they would if they fell off a bike, you need to teach your little one to get back up and try again. If they didn’t get the audition tell them there’s always next time or if they didn’t get student of the day teach them to try a little harder.
