Step One: Model a Growth Mindset
It's easy:
- Regularly talk about things you have learned or challenges you have faced from childhood to adulthood.
- Reframe failures to setbacks and criticism to feedback.
- Emphasize what is needed to help them achieve and progress made rather than an achievement/outcome.
SteP Two: Think about Praise
When thinking about praise, try to determine how you can turn intelligence praise to effort praise. For instance, in Carol Dweck's book Mindset: The New Psychology of Success she mentions how you can reframe what you say into praise that promotes a growth mindset. Instead of "you are so smart", try "you must have put so much effort into this". If a student finishes an activity too quickly and easily you could say, "this must have been too easy. I'm sorry to have given you that. Next time we will try something more challenging".
Step three: teach them!
Create a culture where growth mindset is the norm. First things first, introduce your kids to the difference between growth and fixed mindset. To do this, you can use a lesson plan like this one from Khan Academy.
You can also check out these books for ideas on how to turn your classroom into one that values mindset. |
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Also, look into these books for some ideas to help you talk about mindset and overcoming challenges with your students. |
Where do We go from here?
However you do it, just make sure you are explicitly teaching your students about the growth mindset. Students who think with growth in mind learn to embrace challenge and develop grit. You'll be glad you did!