What to Do When Mistakes Make You Quake A Kid`s Guide to Accepting Imperfection

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 more than 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 the American Psychological Association―trusted leaders in children’s mental health and well-being

Jacqueline B. Toner, PhD, is the author of multiple award-winning books for kids and teens which focus on topics in psychology. Prior to her writing career, she spent thirty-five years as a clinical child and family psychologist and served as chief facilitator for a medical resources project with Johns Hopkins School of Public Health and Carnegie Mellon University.

Claire A. B. Freeland, PhD, is a clinical psychologist, working for more than thirty-five years with youth and their families. She is interested in bringing the general principles of cognitive–behavioral therapy to families everywhere.

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.