Growing a STEM Classroom

Trial-and-error learning is super important for kids because it’s how their brains naturally learn best—by trying something, noticing what happened, adjusting, and trying again. It builds both thinking skills and confidence.

Here are the biggest reasons it matters:

1) It builds problem-solving skills.

When kids experiment and make changes, they learn how to:

- identify what went wrong

- figure out why it happened

- try a new strategy

That’s real-life problem solving—not just memorizing answers.

2) It teaches perseverance (“don’t give up”).

Trial and error helps kids learn:

- mistakes are normal

- effort matters

- improvement takes practice

They start to think: “I can’t do it yet… but I can keep trying.”

3) It strengthens brain connections.

Every time a child tries, fails, and tries again, their brain is:

- making connections

- strengthening memory pathways

- learning what works and what doesn’t

This is one of the best ways to create deep learning.

4) It builds independence.

Instead of always depending on adults for the “right answer,” kids learn to:

- trust themselves

- test ideas

- make decisions

That leads to stronger confidence and self-control.

5) It encourages creativity and innovation.

If kids aren’t allowed to try and fail, they stop being creative. Trial-and-error teaches that:

- there can be many solutions

- it’s okay to experiment

- new ideas are welcome

This is huge in STEM, art, writing—everything.

6) It helps kids learn from mistakes in a healthy way.

Kids who experience safe failure learn:

- mistakes are information (not embarrassment)

- errors help you improve

- failure doesn’t mean you’re bad at something

That mindset protects self-esteem.

7) It builds “real world” learning skills.

In real life, adults don’t get answer keys. Trial and error is how we:

- learn new jobs

- solve problems at home

- fix mistakes

- invent new things

So, kids who practice trial and error early are better prepared later!