Feeling frustrated or discouraged is normal and can happen to anyone. If your child or student is feeling this way, you can help them work through it by teaching them the skills to develop a growth mindset.
A growth mindset means believing that you can move through difficult times and learn new things along the way. Instead of getting down on yourself for the things that are challenging, having a growth mindset helps you embrace the opportunity to learn.
Here are a six steps to teach your child or student to help them develop a growth mindset:
- Pay attention to self-talk: rather than telling yourself, “I can’t do this” try to boost yourself up with positive thinking!
- Open yourself to learning new things – your brain is like a muscle, if you exercise it, it will get stronger and grow!
- Recognize your strengths and how those can be used to help you grow
- Embrace feedback from your parents, teachers, and peers. Many times the advice of others can help you recognize things you didn’t know about yourself or a situation!
- Track your progress and give yourself credit when you turn negative thoughts into positive ones! It’s important to recognize and appreciate your growth.
- Believe in yourself! It’s not always easy, but having the belief that you are doing your best and can welcome growth will help you work through difficulties.
Check out our social skills lesson module about developing a growth mindset to learn more and access supporting activities, lesson outlines, and tools!
The special education resources on this page were authored by Watson Institute’s special education consultant, Andee Morris, M.Ed.
Power Point Presentations:
Developing a Growth Mindset Facilitator’s Guide
Developing a Growth Mindset Power Point Presentation
Resource Materials:
Growth Mindset Worksheet Activity
Growth Mindset Cut & Paste Activity
If you have questions or concerns about the Watson Institute’s use of this information, please contact us.