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It's Okay to Make Mistakes
This title takes on the importance of taking chances, trying new things, and embracing life, mistakes and all. Aligned to Common Core standards and correlated to state standards. Spotlight is a division of ABDO.
32 pages, Library Binding
First published July 1, 2014
12 people are currently reading
458 people want to read
About the author
Todd Parr
103 books261 followersTodd Parr is a three-time New York Times-bestselling author and illustrator of more than fifty books for children. He has inspired and empowered children around the world with simple, hopeful, and powerful messages such as “be kind”, “love yourself” and “be who you are,” all set with vibrant images in eye-catching primary colors. His books have received numerous awards and are available in nearly twenty languages. He also is the co-creator of the popular three-time Daytime Emmy©-nominated animated TV series, "ToddWorld" with Gerry Renert of SupperTime Entertainment. Several short films for Sesame Street have also been based on Parr’s work.
Parr devotes time to numerous philanthropic causes supporting pet adoption, children’s hunger, health, and literacy. He is a frequent reader and fundraiser for The Ronald McDonald House and serves on the board of directors for the Virginia Children’s Book Festival. His corporate collaborations include Best Buy, Stouffer’s, and the San Francisco–Marin Food Bank, among others.
A native of Wyoming, Parr currently lives in Berkeley, California.
Parr devotes time to numerous philanthropic causes supporting pet adoption, children’s hunger, health, and literacy. He is a frequent reader and fundraiser for The Ronald McDonald House and serves on the board of directors for the Virginia Children’s Book Festival. His corporate collaborations include Best Buy, Stouffer’s, and the San Francisco–Marin Food Bank, among others.
A native of Wyoming, Parr currently lives in Berkeley, California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
May 8, 2020
One of the most important lessons in life is that it’s okay to make mistakes. Todd Parr does a wonderful job getting that point across in his wonderful way. I love an uplifting Todd Parr book. Same bright colors and style here.
I feel like this idea is a very spiritual idea. We have to be okay with making mistakes and then picking ourselves up and going on. I really need to remind myself of this every day. It’s something I work on.
I no longer read these books to the kids as they have outgrown them, but it’s a great beginning book for young kids or kids at heart.
I feel like this idea is a very spiritual idea. We have to be okay with making mistakes and then picking ourselves up and going on. I really need to remind myself of this every day. It’s something I work on.
I no longer read these books to the kids as they have outgrown them, but it’s a great beginning book for young kids or kids at heart.
February 14, 2015
The book we are reading today is called, It’s Okay to Make Mistakes, written and illustrated by Todd Parr.
Have you ever had a time when you made a mistake? (Pause) Have you ever made a mistake when you are alone or in front of family or friends? (Pause) How did you feel at that time? How did the people around you react? (Pause) Do you know that everyone makes mistakes? Even I do! Just the other day, I got into someone elses car thinking it was mine! Once I sat down, I realized that this car was too clean to be mine. My car was parked right next to it and they were the same color and style! I was a little embarrassed, (okay, a lot) but got out, looked around, and got in my own car and drove off. That day, I learned to pay attention to what I was doing! I hope you really pay close attention to this book, because it will show you that mistakes can teach positive lessons!
My opening moves were: raising questions to spark curiosity, inviting personal connections, and sharing a brief personal experience related to the topic.
I used this book to show students that making mistakes are not the end of the world. It is all in how you handle the mistake. This books shows the positive side of making mistakes and the good things that can come out of it, such as: “It’s okay to not know the answer. Asking questions helps you learn.” and “It’s okay if you are clumsy. You might invent a new move.” This way, they can be more caring and supportive of others when they make mistakes. It is a good way to build positive self esteem, character, and become a caring friend.
August 20, 2025
Emily’s Circle Time Series
I first read this book in a Kindergarten classroom. It stuck with me though, and I’ve decided this message is even more important for adults and teenagers than it is for children.
I quote this book to my husband. I read it to my eighth graders and they reference it all year. I sometimes choke up when I read, “It’s okay to change your mind, everyone is ready at a different time.”
How comforting to be told “it’s okay” when you mess up. How simple, how rare.
I first read this book in a Kindergarten classroom. It stuck with me though, and I’ve decided this message is even more important for adults and teenagers than it is for children.
I quote this book to my husband. I read it to my eighth graders and they reference it all year. I sometimes choke up when I read, “It’s okay to change your mind, everyone is ready at a different time.”
How comforting to be told “it’s okay” when you mess up. How simple, how rare.
July 1, 2015
Originally posted on my blog,
Nine Pages
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I discovered this book—as honestly I do most of these books—by pure accident. Most of them I find while cleaning up after customers. This one was in a section that I know to be less frequented (the parenting section just outside of the children’s section), and I would if I could, move it to a more prominent location. I think I might even move it out of the children’s section altogether. Though marketed for the very young, I feel as if I have more insecurity as an adult about making the mistakes given as examples in this book than I ever did as a child—maybe because as an adult I feel the pressure to succeed and to conform more than I did as a child, and I know that my consequences may be more devastating in that they may result in losing a job and being unable to pay my rent or feed myself rather than being kicked off an extracurricular team or being called to talk to the teacher. How many children care if they put on mismatching socks? How many adults worry that a manager or potential employer will notice their mismatched socks and think less of them because of they grabbed the wrong clothes in the dark, rushing out the door to be on time? The other examples given in the book are more universal across the ages. It’s always important to know that you don’t have to know the answer. It’s always good to be reminded that you might discover something new by trying something different. Honestly, I think I would sell more copies of this during graduation season alongside Dr. Seuss’ Oh, the Places You’ll Go! than during any other time or to any parents of smaller children. I actually think that this book would go nicely just beside Bradley Trevor Greive’s in my room—books to read when feeling discouraged.
I’ve read several of Todd Parr’s books, and I find him enchanting. His colors are beyond Crayola vibrant. His vibrant colors create a universality that leaps across racial barriers and his childlike drawings sometimes surpass gender barriers besides. Animal characters also help to create a universality of reader. Parr leans towards second person text, directly addressing the reader, again lending a more universal feel to the story.
The illustrations are fairly simple, his faces being noseless, little more than smiley or frowny faces. The characters, figures, and backgrounds are all fairly blocky with a few lines to illustrate movement when necessary.
Parr ends his books with a brief summary of his idea and his “Love, Todd” signature.
I discovered this book—as honestly I do most of these books—by pure accident. Most of them I find while cleaning up after customers. This one was in a section that I know to be less frequented (the parenting section just outside of the children’s section), and I would if I could, move it to a more prominent location. I think I might even move it out of the children’s section altogether. Though marketed for the very young, I feel as if I have more insecurity as an adult about making the mistakes given as examples in this book than I ever did as a child—maybe because as an adult I feel the pressure to succeed and to conform more than I did as a child, and I know that my consequences may be more devastating in that they may result in losing a job and being unable to pay my rent or feed myself rather than being kicked off an extracurricular team or being called to talk to the teacher. How many children care if they put on mismatching socks? How many adults worry that a manager or potential employer will notice their mismatched socks and think less of them because of they grabbed the wrong clothes in the dark, rushing out the door to be on time? The other examples given in the book are more universal across the ages. It’s always important to know that you don’t have to know the answer. It’s always good to be reminded that you might discover something new by trying something different. Honestly, I think I would sell more copies of this during graduation season alongside Dr. Seuss’ Oh, the Places You’ll Go! than during any other time or to any parents of smaller children. I actually think that this book would go nicely just beside Bradley Trevor Greive’s in my room—books to read when feeling discouraged.
I’ve read several of Todd Parr’s books, and I find him enchanting. His colors are beyond Crayola vibrant. His vibrant colors create a universality that leaps across racial barriers and his childlike drawings sometimes surpass gender barriers besides. Animal characters also help to create a universality of reader. Parr leans towards second person text, directly addressing the reader, again lending a more universal feel to the story.
The illustrations are fairly simple, his faces being noseless, little more than smiley or frowny faces. The characters, figures, and backgrounds are all fairly blocky with a few lines to illustrate movement when necessary.
Parr ends his books with a brief summary of his idea and his “Love, Todd” signature.
July 11, 2015
I enjoy this book and think it's an excellent way to encourage kids when they make mistakes of do something wrong. It gives examples on how to think positive about things that may be negative. Just like other Todd Parr books, this book has silly pictures and ideas.
February 18, 2017
Bright, colorful illustrations in Todd Parr's recognizable style sets the tone for learning that it's ok to make mistakes... even grownups do. Great see-saw structure with message that from mistakes comes learning. Kids love the colorful illustrations, teachers love the message.
November 26, 2018
Good message, but the book was a little monotonous and the illustrations were simplistic to the point of confusing my four-year-old.
December 31, 2018
Always love Todd Parr. This wasn’t my favorite of his, but it’s Todd Parr. It’s colorful and inclusive and encouraging.
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January 6, 2025Day 1 of logging every book I read with my preschoolers. This one we read 4 times. In a row. Easily a fan favorite.
August 16, 2022
Julianna and I read this book tonight. We took turns. She was able to read more words and I helped her sound out and say the words she did not know. She gives the book 5 stars. She says she likes the book because it was funny. She and I love this author's books so far. 2 read so far. This is one I ordered to our library as we loved The Thankful book. This book taught great advise and good reading level book for Julianna & adorable pictures!
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April 7, 2020This is a really cute book that has to do with everyday mistakes a child may make. The main point behind this book is to tell children it is okay to mess up, everyone does. I would read this book during a self awareness month and have it in my classroom library. It relates to children and what they may be going through as well.
December 17, 2014
This new book from Todd Parr fits in very well with the rest of his work. It contains the same whimsical and colorful illustrations and conveys a simple but important message. As the title states- it's okay to make mistakes! Some of the "mistakes" that occur throughout the story include spilling milk, coloring outside of the lines, forgetting an umbrella, and not knowing the answer. After each one the author states how this "mistake" can be viewed positively.
I really love the overall message of this book and how students can relate to it. Although not each example in the book is technically a mistake, kids still tend to feel bad about the majority of the things. I love discussing how mistakes are actually opportunities for learning and that even grown ups make mistakes. My students were really engaged when I read this story as an introduction to "editing" their writing. It was a first grade friendly way of approaching the touchy subject that their original work might not be perfect. They thought the illustrations were hilarious. I find they select this book often for independent reading time.
I really love the overall message of this book and how students can relate to it. Although not each example in the book is technically a mistake, kids still tend to feel bad about the majority of the things. I love discussing how mistakes are actually opportunities for learning and that even grown ups make mistakes. My students were really engaged when I read this story as an introduction to "editing" their writing. It was a first grade friendly way of approaching the touchy subject that their original work might not be perfect. They thought the illustrations were hilarious. I find they select this book often for independent reading time.
June 7, 2019
Todd is a wonderful author. He does great about explaining things in all his books, and the artwork is always entertaining.
My asd oldest is able to understand “Oh, okay. That happened to me. And it looks like it happened to them. And that’s okay.” He’s very much a rule follower and perfectionist. And making mistakes is hard for him. We need more books on this topic, not just for kids but adults too, that it’s okay to make mistakes. Dust yourself off and try again.
My asd oldest is able to understand “Oh, okay. That happened to me. And it looks like it happened to them. And that’s okay.” He’s very much a rule follower and perfectionist. And making mistakes is hard for him. We need more books on this topic, not just for kids but adults too, that it’s okay to make mistakes. Dust yourself off and try again.
April 30, 2016
Nice way too teach kids about how it's okay to make mistakes. I'm not a parent, but I would be concerned about the one page that says "it's okay to get dirty- you can always wash up!". It may encourage some children to get messy ;). Maybe I'm taking it to seriously though.
June 21, 2014
Cheerfully reassuring.
February 18, 2017
Another great one from Todd
May 29, 2017
Colorful illustrations and nice words of wissom fir the young tykes. Yes, it's true, everyone does make mistakes. See, i just fid, i typed "everyone dies make mistakes" geez.
August 2, 2017
Cute, bright illustrations let children know that it is ok to make mistakes and that everyone does it. Each mistake has a up-side to it.
February 25, 2018
Yes, all Todd Parr books feel the same...but what's wrong with that? They are colorful, optimistic, and lovely in a world that isn't enough of any of those things.
May 4, 2018
Another wonderful Parr book.
May 19, 2018
always enjoy Parr
August 1, 2018
Gives lots of examples of possible mistakes and the positive that can come from doing so. Great illustrations.
August 30, 2018
Great for first graders!
June 16, 2019
Making mistakes is part of growing up. B
bookcrossing-2019
April 26, 2022Donations to the #KindnessTrioLibrary 2019
BookCrossing.com BCID: 338-15566246
http://bookcrossing.com/journal/15566...
BookCrossing.com BCID: 338-15566246
http://bookcrossing.com/journal/15566...
July 11, 2019
Bug loves this book. She thinks it’s hilarious, especially the cover, which features a boy with shorts on his head. I am not fond of Parr’s illustrations, but she is.
October 14, 2019
Couldn't have come at a more perfect time. Whenever we correct Ev she says, "That's what I said!"
May 15, 2020
Short, sweet, and too the point is exactly what Todd Parr delivers in his book titled “It’s Okay to Make Mistakes.” As the title may infer, this book is all about making mistakes and why that’s ok. From fish swimming in a different direction than their schools, to getting angry, to wearing different socks, Parr quickly goes through several common scenarios for children to tell them that it is ok to fall and get back up. The important lesson is that you learn from your mistakes.
I loved this book! The artwork was elementary, but the colors, drawings, and styles all matched up very well with the sentence style of the author. It was very basic terminology and phrasing to ensure the targeted audience will be able to understand and comprehend the message. Again, the message is simple and clear, we learn from our mistakes and it’s ok to make them. I also love that as a parent I can see from an adult perspective that my child absolutely needs to make mistakes to grow and I need to learn to be okay with them. The author did a great job ensuring various ages would receive a message through his text.
I loved this book! The artwork was elementary, but the colors, drawings, and styles all matched up very well with the sentence style of the author. It was very basic terminology and phrasing to ensure the targeted audience will be able to understand and comprehend the message. Again, the message is simple and clear, we learn from our mistakes and it’s ok to make them. I also love that as a parent I can see from an adult perspective that my child absolutely needs to make mistakes to grow and I need to learn to be okay with them. The author did a great job ensuring various ages would receive a message through his text.
October 8, 2020
This is a sweet book that repeats the phrase, "it's okay to..." and is followed by an alternative that promotes learning, being brave, and trying new things. It is simple, yet colorful and intentional with illustrations. The message of this story reminds children that mistakes are something to take pride in, as they open doors to new ideas and growth. Todd Parr does a fantastic job using abstract situations that often involve both people and animals (such as an elephant on a diving board or a duck needing an umbrella) to create a fun and silly-natured book.
I think this is perfect for Kindergarten/1st Grade students, or possibly even younger kids, as well. It would be a great addition to a feelings text set, or a text set that talks about being brave and trying new things. For Kindergarten, especially, there are many students who may be afraid to branch out of their comfort zone. Todd Parr makes it a little bit easier to explain to kids that mistakes are aye okay at school!
I think this is perfect for Kindergarten/1st Grade students, or possibly even younger kids, as well. It would be a great addition to a feelings text set, or a text set that talks about being brave and trying new things. For Kindergarten, especially, there are many students who may be afraid to branch out of their comfort zone. Todd Parr makes it a little bit easier to explain to kids that mistakes are aye okay at school!
November 17, 2018
It’s Okay to Make Mistakes
Genre: Picture Book
This fun and colorful book is all about teaching kids how to become comfortable with making mistakes.
Book Level: 1.5
Mentor Writing Text:
Ideas – the book has a very clear purpose – to make kids comfortable with mistakes.
Organization – By using sequencing clearly and effectively the book supports the idea that it is okay to make mistakes. The story begins with a mistake that it is made with the following page giving a solution on how to handle the mistake, or an example of something good that can come from the mistake. This sequence is maintained through the whole story.
Word Choice - The word choice is strategic and consistent; It’s okay to make mistakes, you can always… or, a detailed example of the good that can occur as a result of a mistake.
Voice – The voice in the text is consistent, convincing, and provides appropriate examples that children can relate to.
Classroom Integration – This book would be great to use for a read aloud with talk and turns, followed by a grand discussion
Genre: Picture Book
This fun and colorful book is all about teaching kids how to become comfortable with making mistakes.
Book Level: 1.5
Mentor Writing Text:
Ideas – the book has a very clear purpose – to make kids comfortable with mistakes.
Organization – By using sequencing clearly and effectively the book supports the idea that it is okay to make mistakes. The story begins with a mistake that it is made with the following page giving a solution on how to handle the mistake, or an example of something good that can come from the mistake. This sequence is maintained through the whole story.
Word Choice - The word choice is strategic and consistent; It’s okay to make mistakes, you can always… or, a detailed example of the good that can occur as a result of a mistake.
Voice – The voice in the text is consistent, convincing, and provides appropriate examples that children can relate to.
Classroom Integration – This book would be great to use for a read aloud with talk and turns, followed by a grand discussion
Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews