Every parent and teacher wants children to believe in themselves. But how do we help kids move from “I can’t do this” to “I can’t do this yet”?

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What is a Growth Mindset?

Carol Dweck’s research shows that people generally hold one of two mindsets:

• Fixed mindset: “I’m just not good at maths” or “I’ll never be athletic.” Abilities are seen as unchangeable.
• Growth mindset: “If I practise, I can get better.” Abilities are seen as skills that grow with effort, strategy, and persistence.

For children aged 5–12, this distinction is powerful. It’s the difference between giving up when homework is hard versus trying again with a new approach. Mindset affects everyday resilience. When children believe they can grow, they’re less afraid of mistakes and more willing to face challenges.

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Why It Matters for kids

The primary school years are full of “firsts”—from learning to read to playing team sports. During this stage, kids are forming their sense of identity. Do they see themselves as “bad at spelling” or as “learners who improve”?

A growth mindset helps children:

• Bounce back when things don’t go their way.
• Embrace effort as part of learning.
• Build confidence through persistence, not perfection.

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How to Encourage a Growth Mindset

Here are some simple, practical strategies parents and teachers can use:

1. Praise the Process, Not the Person
   Instead of “You’re so smart,” say:
   • “You worked hard on that puzzle.”
   • “I like the strategy you tried.”
     This shifts focus from talent to effort and problem-solving.
2. Use the Power of “Yet”
   When a child says, “I can’t draw a horse,” add “…yet.” This little word reminds them improvement is possible.
3. Normalize Mistakes
   Share your own slip-ups. For example: “I burnt dinner last night—but I learned to set a timer!” This teaches kids mistakes are stepping stones, not failures.
4. Encourage Challenge
   Offer tasks that stretch them just a little beyond what they can already do. Celebrate the attempt, not just the result.
5. Model Growth Mindset
   Kids notice what adults do. Show curiosity, admit when you don’t know something, and talk through how you keep trying.
6. Give Specific, Actionable Feedback
   Instead of “Good job,” try: “Your sentences are clearer than last time. Next, add more detail.” This shows progress and next steps.

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Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Effort without strategy: Kids need to learn how to improve, not just to try harder.
• Empty praise: Saying “Great effort” without guidance feels hollow.
• Mindset as a slogan: Posters or sayings alone don’t work—children need adults to live it out daily.

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The Big Picture

Helping children build a growth mindset isn’t about pushing them harder—it’s about giving them the tools and belief that they can grow. When kids learn to see mistakes as opportunities, praise effort and strategies, and watch adults model resilience, they build confidence that lasts a lifetime.

Resilience is about strength, calm, kindness, and identity. A growth mindset underpins all of these. The real power is in believing that abilities can improve. For children, that belief can open doors to learning, curiosity, and joy that stay with them well beyond the classroom.

Learn more on growth mindset from these Parent TV videos