Maybe start a pattern of focusing alot more on effort rather than outcome and also focusing compliments on non-brainy things for a while. Try building him back up with accomplishments that don't have anything to do with knowledge or being smart, like helping you with things around the house or yard. My DD went through that stage but she's alot better now. They need to appreciate that they're smart but not having everything hinge on it. Also don't hesitate to acknowledge mistakes you make and either model relaxed behavior or sometimes if you have a humorous family, be really melodramatic yourself. If I humorously start freaking out if something's not working or I get somethin wrong or forget something (and have to turn around and go back and lose lots of time...) DD will stop, be speechless, then start laughing and we all have a good laugh.
Last edited by bzylzy; 02/28/13 06:32 PM.
