A child stands before a table covered with puzzle pieces. Does she tackle the task of assembling the puzzle, one piece at a time, or become overwhelmed by the process and move on to another activity?
The child with mastery motivation relishes challenges and doesn't run away from them, while others may fear failure to the extent that they avoid challenging tasks at all costs. By avoiding tasks that could possibly end in failure, children will miss out on many learning opportunities. Theses songs were written to help children equate effort with eventual success. Mistakes can be good, because they help you learn.