Growth Mindset

Social Emotional Learning Team

This newsletter provides a better understanding of a growth mindset, and steps parents and caregivers can take to foster this approach.

What is a growth mindset?

A growth mindset teaches kids that their brains are capable of growing and developing; that they can put in the right effort and use the right strategies to become better at things and that challenges and mistakes are opportunities to grow.


Kids with a growth mindset feel empowered and try harder. They are more confident, resilient, and are not afraid to fail.


Developing a growth mindset is a life skill and allows children to develop healthy habits with their education and relationships.

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Neuroplasticity

The science behind growth mindset
Neuroplasticity

What is the difference between a Fixed Mindset and a Growth Mindset?

Fixed Mindset:

  • I like my work to be easy.
  • I don’t like to try a challenge.
  • I want people to praise me for how clever I am.
  • I believe I cannot change how clever I am.
  • I don’t like to try new things because I won’t be very good at it.
  • I give up easily.

Growth Mindset:

  • I never give up.
  • I like my work to be difficult – it means I am learning.
  • I love challenges.
  • I want people to praise me for the effort I put into my work.
  • I believe I can get more intelligent by working hard.
  • I feel clever when I’m learning something new.
  • I learn from my mistakes.
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How to foster a growth mindset

  • Tell your child, over and over and over again, that "Brains can get stronger"

  • Pay attention to effort over results

  • Be specific with praise

  • Catch your child being persistent

  • Encourage a healthy attitude to failure and challenge

  • Use the word ‘yet’, and use it often

  • Show your child that they don’t always have to be successful to be okay

  • Encourage your child to keep the big picture in mind

  • Give permission to fail


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Parent Guides

Literature for students