5 Ways to Nurture a Growth Mindset in Young Learners

This statement is such a staple in the Mathematics classroom. It reflects a fixed mindset, a perspective that sees abilities as innate traits rather than skills that can be developed. The alternative to this is a growth mindset – a perspective that believes that abilities and talent can be developed through hard work and perseverance.

I believe that educators and parents must understand and foster a growth mindset in our students. At its most basic, a growth mindset is crucial for both academic and personal development.

First proposed by Carol Dweck, the belief that talents and abilities can be cultivated through effort, effective learning strategies, and input from others are fundamental building blocks for a growth mindset.

Here are some ways we can encourage this mindset in our young students:

1. Embrace the struggle: Education and student’s individual learning journeys often involves challenges and setbacks. We should encourage children to see these as opportunities for growth rather than reasons to give up. Grit and perseverance are essential for building confidence and resilience. I often refer to this as “stickability”.
   

2. Reward and celebrate effort over achievement: Praise your child's hard work and “stickability” rather than just their innate abilities. Remind them that dedication and perseverance are key ingredients for future success.
   

3. Encourage risk-taking: As educators, we should create an environment where your child feels comfortable making mistakes and taking risks. Mistakes are valuable learning experiences that help build problem-solving skills and resilience.
   

4. Model a growth mindset: Be mindful of the language you use around your child. Instead of saying, "I'm not good at this," try saying, "I haven't mastered this yet, but I'm working on it." Show them that learning is a lifelong journey that involves overcoming challenges. It is even more impactful when you involve your child in your own learning journey. Share with them how you're continually improving your skills, explaining the steps you're taking to enhance your abilities. This not only sets a positive example but also fosters a collaborative learning environment where growth and development are celebrated together.
   

5. Foster self-reflection: Encourage your child to reflect on their learning experiences and set their own goals for improvement. This helps them develop self-awareness and take ownership of their learning.

By fostering a growth mindset in our children, we empower them to embrace challenges, persist in the face of setbacks, and ultimately become confident, lifelong learners.

Steve Jobs