Apologizing sincerely is a valuable skill that involves taking responsibility for mistakes and showing genuine regret. While it’s needed for repairing relationships, many people struggle to apologize or do so without really meaning it. Without this skill, opportunities for healing and connection can be lost.
The All About Apologizing handout offers guidance on recognizing when an apology is needed, how to make a sincere apology, and how to make things right. It has four sections: the first explains when it’s good to apologize, the second shows how to do it properly, the third looks at different ways to phrase an apology, and the fourth offers quick tips.
Through this handout, kids and teens will learn to rebuild trust by taking responsibility for their mistakes and showing empathy. Discussing real-life scenarios where apologies are needed can help kids approach these moments with care.
Caring adults can help by showing good apology habits in their interactions. Remember to praise kids when they practice these habits to reinforce the value of honest and heartfelt apologies.
This handout pairs well with our Apologizing Worksheets.
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References:
- Ely, R., & Gleason, J. B. (2006). I'm sorry I said that: Apologies in young children's discourse. Journal of Child Language, 33(3), 599-620. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0305000906007446
- Yamamoto, K., Kimura, M., & Osaka, M. (2021). Sorry, not sorry: Effects of different types of apologies and self-monitoring on non-verbal behaviors. Frontiers in Psychology, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.689615
