Obstacle success moments
6–12 monthsEmotional WellbeingMaterials: Favorite toys and soft cloth
Place a favorite toy just slightly out of reach, or put a soft cloth over a toy your child can see. Encourage them with a warm tone as they work to reach or uncover it. When they succeed, respond with genuine delight and a smile. This builds confidence that problems have solutions.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Place a favorite toy just slightly out of reach, or put a soft cloth over a toy your child can see. Encourage them with a warm tone as they work to reach or uncover it. When they succeed, respond with genuine delight and a smile. This builds confidence that problems have solutions.
Why It Works
When infants successfully navigate small challenges with supportive encouragement, they begin to view obstacles as temporary and solvable rather than permanent barriers. This aligns with optimistic explanatory styles that research identifies as crucial for resilience. Studies show that viewing setbacks as temporary and specific rather than permanent and pervasive predicts better outcomes across the lifespan (Carver, C. S., Scheier, M. F., & Segerstrom, S. C. (2010). Optimism. Clinical Psychology Review, 30(7), 879-889.).
Tips for Parents
Make obstacles very simple at first. The goal is success, not frustration.
Stay close and encouraging during their attempts. Your positive presence helps them persist.
If your child shows frustration, help them succeed quickly. Each win builds optimistic expectations.
Materials Needed
Favorite toys and soft cloth
Learning Methods
Responsive InteractionRepetition and Routine
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