Growth mindset is something we've been hearing a lot about in recent years, but what is it really and how do we teach kids about it?
Simply stated, a growth mindset is the belief that you and your brain can grow and learn new things. In other words, you are not just born smart; you can BECOME smart.
The opposite of a growth mindset is a fixed mindset. This is where many people, including kids, get trapped. It's the belief that, if you can't do something right now, you will never be able to do it.
This simply isn't true, though. We know that the human brain is malleable, or able to change and grow. It can become stronger through effort, trying new and different things and asking for help, when needed.
The research also shows that parent and teacher interactions play a big role in forming a child's mindset. We have the ability to help kids become more resilient through our words and actions. We can do this by focusing our praise on the process versus a child's ability, teaching kids the importance of trying new strategies when they aren't successful and how asking for the assistance or opinions of others can be beneficial.
If all of this sounds great, but you still aren't sure where to start, check out these 5 picture books that will serve as a springboard for discussion of this topic.
The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds
This is, of course, a fan favorite. It is about a little girl who dislikes art class because she doesn't think she is a good artist. Her teacher encourages her to simply begin with a single dot and see where it takes her. This one interaction begins a journey of discovery for the little girl which is very relatable for many of our kids.
Emmanuel's Dream: The True Story of Emmanuel Ofosu Yeboah by Laurie Ann Thompson
This is the true story of a little boy born in Ghana with a deformed leg. While most people dismiss Emmanuel because of his disability, his mother pushes him to dream big. He eventually becomes a cyclist who rides across Ghana, spreading his message of perseverance, courage and strength.
The Thing Lou Couldn't Do by Ashley Spires
Lou really wants to be brave and climb a tree like all her friends, but she's never done it before and is convinced she can't. Despite brainstorming lots of methods for getting to the top of the tree, she isn't able to make it. Her friends cheer her on and remind her that she can't do it YET and she can always try again tomorrow. A great reminder for all our kids that they are on their way to accomplishing their goals, even if they haven't succeeded yet.
I'm Not Just a Scribble by Diane Alber
Scribble realizes he's different when he meets other drawings and gets made fun of. Eventually, the other drawings come to realize that Scribble is not bad just because he's different. In fact, Scribble teaches them that he has a lot to add to their lives! A great message to accept others for who they are and what they have to offer the world.
Mistakes that Worked: 40 Familiar Inventions and How They Came to Be by Charlotte Foltz Jones
A wonderful nonfiction book about mistakes that changed the world. Kids will learn how sandwiches, potato chips, Silly Putty and many other common items came to be...by accident!
There are so many wonderful books out there to help teach kids about growth mindset. What are some of your favorites?
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