Does your child give up quickly when something feels hard?
Trying something new and not managing it straight away is one of the most ordinary parts of childhood, and one of the hardest to sit with as a parent.
These stories give you a natural way to talk about frustration, taking a break and trying again, rather than simply telling a child to "keep trying." Growing Wise is an educational parent resource, not therapy or medical advice: these are conversation starters, not fixes.
Start with these books
Want to practise this together?
Sometimes children find it easier to talk about a tricky situation when it's happening to somebody else first. Try one of our short scenarios together, or read our guide on why small things can produce big reactions.
Try the 5-minute activity together →
Free pack for children who give up
Includes “The tower falls” scenario card, a Try Another Way activity and 12 phrases like “I don’t know is OK”. Printable, for ages 4–7. Download it straight away.
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 16 September 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice.