Growth mindset refers to a learning theory developed by Dr Carol Dweck. It revolves around the belief that you can improve intelligence, ability and performance. The opposite, a fixed mindset, refers to the belief that a person’s talents are set in stone. Years of research have shown that mindset is malleable. This means that by helping children to develop a growth mindset, we can help them to learning more effective and efficient.
There is a lot research on the pros of encouraging a growth mindset in children. At Taynuilt we believe that a growth mindset helps children to :
- seek better feedback
- persist for longer if a task is challenging
- cope better with transitions
- develop better self regulation
- reduce their stress and aggression
- increase their wellbeing and emotional functioning
- improves their self esteem
- reduces their feeling of helplessness
There is no set way on to develop a growth mindset in children . We find that the following techniques are a good starting point:
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- Giving genuine praise – praising the process, their effort and individual development over the result, Encouraging childrens to ask for and act on feedback. Encouraging a sense of curiosity
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- Level of Expectation – having high, challenging but realistic expectations of their performance and communicating this to the children.
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- Positive Group Norms – creating a growth culture that values learning, education and development
- Helpful Self-Talk – Teaching children to manage how they talk to themselves and to do so in a positive, helpful and energised way.
