Embrace the Oops!
Introduction
Ever watch your child build a tower… and then, crash!—it all comes tumbling down? Instead of groaning, you can turn that moment into gold. Welcome to the world of "fast fail." Calling it a "fast fail" helps children see setbacks as temporary and gives them the language to keep going. When children see failure as just a part of the process, they learn resilience, problem-solving, and persistence—all the good stuff that makes them ready for school and life. This term is often heard when kids are building, but feel free to use it anytime it fits the moment!
Gather Materials
Note: Small parts pose a choking hazard and are not appropriate for children age five or under. Be sure to choose lesson materials that you feel are safe for your child and that you are comfortable letting your child use.
Activity
Introduce the Idea
“Fast fail just means we try something, and if it doesn’t work, no big deal—we learn from it and try again!”
Build & Experiment
Let them create a tower, a bridge, or whatever their imagination cooks up. Encourage them to move fast, try ideas, and expect a few crashes.
Observe & Talk it Over
When things fall, resist the “oh no!” Instead, ask:
- “Hmm, what happened?”
- “What can we do differently?”
- “Which idea should we try next?”
Adjust & Go Again
Have them rebuild with new strategies—maybe a sturdier base, bigger blocks on the bottom, or a fresh design. Cheer them on for trying, not just for succeeding.
Shifting the Mood with “Fast Fail
When kids start saying “fast fail” themselves, it can turn frustration into persistence. Instead of a meltdown when a tower collapses, they pause and go, “Okay, let’s try that again!” Just practicing the phrase gives them a toolkit for building calm, confidence, and resilience.
Celebrate the Wins and the...Oops!
High-five the effort, laugh at the tumbles, and remind them every “oops” is a step toward learning. That’s the magic of fast fail.
If you would like to read more about the benefits of "Fast Fail," check out our Early Science Matters website.