What Is a Growth Mindset?
A growth mindset is the belief that intelligence and abilities can grow through hard work and perseverance. Unlike a fixed mindset, which assumes abilities are static, a growth mindset inspires kids to embrace challenges and keep improving. For students, this belief can make the difference between giving up and pushing through setbacks. Parents can guide their children toward this mindset by using simple strategies at home.
Here are ten ways to help your child think, “I can improve” instead of “I’m just not good at this.”
1. Praise Effort, Not Talent
When students hear praise focused on their natural talents, they may feel pressure to always succeed. Instead, highlight their efforts and problem-solving. Say things like, “I saw how much time you put into that project, and it paid off!” This approach builds confidence in their ability to grow through hard work.
2. Be an Example of Growth
Children learn by observing. When they see you working through challenges, they learn that setbacks are part of growth. Share stories about times you struggled but improved with practice. For example, you could mention how you learned a new recipe after several failed attempts.
3. Encourage Learning from Mistakes
Mistakes offer powerful lessons. Help your student see that failure isn’t the end—it’s a chance to learn something new. When they mess up, resist the urge to fix the problem for them. Instead, ask, “What did you learn, and what will you do differently next time?”
4. Set Small, Achievable Goals
Large goals can feel overwhelming, but breaking them down makes them more manageable. If your child has a big project due, help them create a step-by-step plan. Celebrate when they complete each milestone to show that progress matters. For more about achievable goals, read this article.
5. Encourage Curiosity
Kids are naturally curious, but sometimes school pressure can dampen that spark. Encourage your student to ask questions and explore new ideas, even if they’re outside school topics. Take them on library trips or watch educational videos together. When learning feels fun, curiosity thrives.
6. Use Positive, Growth-Oriented Language
The words you use have a lasting impact. Teach your child to add “yet” to statements like “I can’t do this.” This small addition shifts their mindset from defeat to possibility. Saying, “You’re learning” or “You’ll get it with practice” also reinforces a can-do attitude.
7. Show the Value of Hard Work
Share examples of successful people who reached their goals through persistence, like athletes, authors, or scientists. Remind your student that achievements often come after consistent effort, not overnight success. Stories like J.K. Rowling’s multiple rejections before publishing Harry Potter inspire persistence.
8. Offer Helpful Feedback
Feedback should motivate improvement, not discourage effort. Instead of saying, “This isn’t good,” say, “This part works well, but how can we improve the rest?” Guide them toward solutions and give specific advice they can act on.
9. Let Them Problem-Solve Independently
It’s tempting to step in when your child faces challenges, but allowing them to work through problems helps them develop resilience. Give guidance without taking over. For example, if they’re struggling with homework, ask questions to help them think through the solution instead of providing the answer.
10. Encourage Reflection
Teach your student to reflect on their performance after finishing a task. Ask questions like, “What did you find easy or hard?” and “What would you do differently next time?” Reflection helps them understand their strengths and identify areas for improvement.
Why Growth Mindset Matters
A growth mindset isn’t just about school. It shapes how one approaches life’s challenges, from learning new skills to dealing with disappointment. Students who believe in their ability to grow become more adaptable, persistent, and motivated.
Encouraging this mindset at home doesn’t require a complete parenting overhaul. Start with small changes. Shift how you talk about effort, mistakes, and success. Every positive reinforcement helps your child build a belief in their ability to learn and improve.
So next time they say, “I can’t do this,” remind them: “You can’t do it yet, but you will.” With time and effort, they’ll learn that growth is always possible.