Reach and try again
6–12 monthsSuccess MindsetMaterials: Favorite toy or colorful object
Place a favorite toy just beyond your child's easy reach during play time. Let them stretch and work to get it. When they succeed, celebrate their effort with a smile and words. Then move the toy to a new spot that requires effort. This builds tolerance for challenge through repeated attempts. Your child learns that trying again leads to success.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Place a favorite toy just beyond your child's easy reach during play time. Let them stretch and work to get it. When they succeed, celebrate their effort with a smile and words. Then move the toy to a new spot that requires effort. This builds tolerance for challenge through repeated attempts. Your child learns that trying again leads to success.
Why It Works
This activity builds perseverance of effort, which research shows is strongly linked to academic achievement and sustained engagement even during challenges (Datu et al., 2023). Motor milestones provide natural opportunities for developing persistence. Infants who experience supported struggle during motor learning develop tolerance for challenge. By encouraging repeated attempts at reaching, you're helping your child practice the core component of grit that matters most for later success (Datu et al., 2016).
Tips for Parents
Wait before helping. Give your child time to problem solve.
Move the toy closer if frustration builds too high. You want challenge, not distress.
Name their effort out loud. Say things like "You kept trying" or "You worked hard for that."
Materials Needed
Favorite toy or colorful object
Learning Methods
Movement-Based LearningResponsive Interaction
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