5 Ways to Develop Growth Mindsets in Kids
You may have heard the term “growth mindset” before. Perhaps at a school meeting, something said by a teacher, or even mentioned amongst other parents. But what exactly is a growth mindset, and how can we help our kids develop one? Let’s start with the basics.
What is a Growth Mindset?
The term “growth mindset” was developed by psychologist Dr. Carol Dweck, who is renowned for her contributions in the fields of social and developmental psychology, and personality. After the 2006 release of her book Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, Dr. Dweck’s theories began to influence the way in which many educators approached teaching.
There are two main types of mindsets - a “fixed mindset” and a “growth mindset.” These terms became the basis for understanding people’s beliefs about their intelligence and ability to succeed.
Individuals with a fixed mindset believe their gifts, talents, and abilities are innate or fixed. Those with a growth mindset believe they can develop their talents with hard work and dedication; they are resilient and trust in the learning process.
Brain Plasticity
It’s not just about the way we see ourselves though. Research on brain plasticity proves that the brain is malleable; when we practice something new, new neural networks can develop while existing connections become even stronger. Basically, our brains are always growing!
There is a proven link between mindset and success. If you believe your brain can grow, your behavior and results will reflect that view. Studies show that when people switch from a fixed to a growth mindset, there is increased achievement and motivation.
Well, this all sounds great…
But how do we help develop a growth mindset in our children? Let’s take a look.
5 Tips to Develop a Growth Mindset
1. Share Fun Facts about the Brain
Research shows that when children learn about the brain and how it works, they are more likely to adopt a growth mindset. In one particular study, 7th grade students showed measurable improvement in their math scores after learning that the brain can grow, and intelligence is malleable. Watching fun videos together, defining neuroplasticity, and talking about the importance of learning new skills are all great ways to encourage learning!
2. Practice Setting Goals
Support your child’s goal setting process. After all, developing a growth mindset means trying new things! When children connect pressure and stress with goals, they are more likely to shy away from challenges and feel discouraged. Practice the process of goal setting; pick goals that are specific, measurable, and achievable. And of course, make sure your child feels supported in their goals rather than forced into them. For example:
“Sounds like you’d like to try out for volleyball this year so you can meet new friends. I love that idea! Would you like me to help you make a plan?”
3. Praise Effort, Rather than Results
Place the emphasis on the effort, hard work, and determination, rather than achieving the perfect result. Studies show that praising children for their perseverance - rather than connecting their innate talents with success - is a critical part of developing a growth mindset.
You might say:
“You spent a great deal of time on that homework assignment. Well done!”
…rather than, “You’re so smart. You got every answer correct.” It’s natural to compliment our children on their abilities, but this does not foster a healthy relationship with effort.
4. Foster a Healthy Relationship with Failure
There’s a misconception that failure means we failed. In fact, failure is an essential part of the learning process. When we fail, we can assess how we could have acted and reacted differently. Share stories of your own failures and have your child do the same. Reflect on your emotional response, and the next steps that were or were not taken. Shared personal experiences are a powerful tool for inspiring.
Let your child try and fail for themselves, and be there to talk when things don’t go as planned.
Dr. Dweck suggests:
“addressing the setback head-on and talking to your children about the next steps for learning.”
5. Cultivate you own Growth Mindset
Lead by example. Do you believe that your brain can constantly learn new things, no matter what age? If this mentality isn’t clear in your life, your child will likely struggle adopting this mindset for themselves. Try something new, and share your journey along the way. Or better yet, try something new with your child and reflect on the journey together. Exercise routines, healthy eating, and new hobbies (cooking, learning an instrument, or journaling) are all powerful places to start.
Takeaway
Success and determination are directly tied to a healthy growth mindset. When we shift our belief system (and understand that the brain can learn new things), the real magic happens. Children may have been told by peers, the media, or even themselves that they are “bad” at something, or should stick with their strengths. This simply isn’t true.
We can help foster a growth mindset by: learning about the brain together, supporting our kids in their goals, praising effort and determination, changing our language around failure, and leaning into our own learning journey. One of the easiest ways to help our children believe in themselves is to show them how it’s done! Do you believe you can learn new things? The research proves that you can! Jump in, seek support, and lead by example. We can all benefit from shifting our thought patterns to a growth mindset.