Cultivating a Growth Mindset: A Path to Academic Success and Wellbeing for Your Child

As the school year is slowly unravelling, questions about the success, progress of students and their well-being going forward are starting to arise. In this blog we would like to introduce you to the concept of Growth Mindset and what it can do for you and your child. Everyone throughout their lives has the ability to learn new things and get better atsomething. This is called neuroplasticity and while it’s true that it happens at a faster rate in our younger years, it doesn’t mean that older adults cannot learn new things. Which is great news for adults that would like to do one of our Functional Skills courses, or have a career change!

What is a Growth Mindset?

Coined by psychologist Carol Dweck, Professor of Psychology at Stanford University and psychologist, a growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort, dedication, and learning. In Dweck’s own words, “Individuals who believe their talents can be developed (through hard work, good strategies,and input from others) have a growth mindset. They tend to achieve more than those with a more fixed mindset (those who believe their talents are innate gifts)”.

Praising Effort Vs Praising Qualities

Giving praise is an effective way to encourage students to learn, however, evidence shows that the way we deliver praise and what type of praise it is, truly matters. For example, if a student or child was praised via the use of a label such as”you are so smart” then that child may potentially internalise that label. Children or students that are praised based on the effort they put into a task, for example, & if you tried really hard with that you are prone to trying tasks that are more challenging.

Enhancing Academic Performance

1. Embracing Challenges: A growth mindset encourages children to see challenges as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles. When faced with a difficult task or subject, they are more likely to put in the effort to overcome it. This approach leads to improved problem-solving skills and a stronger work ethic.
2. Resilience in the Face of Failure: One of the most significant benefits of a growth mindset is that it teaches resilience. When children believe that they can improve with effort, they are less afraid of making mistakes. This resilience helps them bounce back from setbacks, which is essential for academic success.
3. Increased Motivation: Children with a growth mindset are often more motivated to learn. They understand that their efforts directly impact their abilities and future success. This intrinsic motivation can lead to better study habits, increased engagement in the classroom, and a genuine love for learning.
4. A Shift in Perspective: Encouraging a growth mindset can change the way your child views their academic journey. Instead of obsessing over grades as a measure of success, they will focus on the process of learning.

Cultivating a growth mindset in your child can be a game-changer, not only for their academic success but also for their overall wellbeing. By encouraging them to embrace challenges, persevere through setbacks, and see the value in effort and learning, you empower them to reach their full potential. Remember that fostering a growth mindset is an ongoing journey that starts at home. With your support and guidance, your child can develop the mindset they need to excel academically and thrive in all aspects of life.

References
1.https://hbr.org/2016/01/what-having-a-growth-mindset-actually-means