We hear the term “growth mindset” regularly, but what exactly does growth mindset mean?
A growth mindset is a powerful concept that shapes our perspective on learning, intelligence, and personal development.
Jump down to the Neuroplasticity lesson for teens.
The growth mindset concept emphasizes the importance of embracing challenges, seeking opportunities for growth, and learning from setbacks. While many kids become frustrated and lose motivation when they make mistakes, turning that around can be a game-changer.
When a child assumes they “can’t” do something because it didn’t come easily, they have what’s called a “fixed” mindset. This means you either have an ability or you don’t and that’s that.
For educators, one of the top jobs is to get inside that thinking and reveal to kids the possibilities that come with sustained effort. How do you actually do that, then?
- Teaching them first and foremost that growth is possible, of course. This can be through posters, lessons, activities for early finishers, etc.
- Demonstrating how to use mistakes as information that help us eliminate what doesn’t work, making us all the wiser.
- Rewarding quick, small successes from small amounts of effort.
- Encouraging students while they are trying, not just when an outcome is evident.
Fun Growth Mindset Activities for Kids
Take a look at my post full of fun ideas for activities and resources to help you encourage a growth mindset in your students or your own children.
Or, you can go straight to checking out some of my resources on TPT by clicking the images below.
Growth Mindset/Neuroplasticity Lesson for Teens
Stress Less with Susan 