Conversations With Kids: Fixed Mindset

Growth mindset, mental toughness and mental strength are the topics that we look at this time in our “Conversations with Kids” email in the hope that you have some interesting chats with your kids.

Improves

• Curiosity 
• Mental Strength

Directions for Parents

What are the hallmarks of Growth mindset, mental toughness and mental strength? How would you expect your children to behave like as adults if they had all 3 characteristics? Perhaps they’d be more likely to be happy, successful, they’d have enhanced self esteem and they’d use they’re skills, intelligence and abilities much better especially in situations where there is pressure.

Researchers suggests children with a growth mindset will most likely have a passion for learning and when faced with challenges embrace them more often than not.  Also when they fail at something they bounce back well, certainly better than the fixed mindset.  In addition, the mentally tough enjoy enhanced well-being, career aspirations and performances.  So as a parent why not do some more research with your kids on these 2 traits!  Some suggestions are at the bottom of the page. 

Ideas for Kids

1. What is your best subject at school? Have you always been good at it.  Do you know more about the subject now than you did one year ago?  So would your say your intelligence in the subject, let’s say maths is fixed?
2. How do you feel when you compare yourself to someone who is better than you at a sport or in a subject at school? Do you get jealous or envious? Or do you look to learn from them?
3. To play in the same team as a great player, like Leo Messi, Michael Hooper, Beth Mead or Jade Clarke how would you feel? How would someone with mental toughness feel playing with these great players? 

Helpful Resources

Mindset – Updated Edition: Changing The Way You think To Fulfil Your Potential

Developing Mental Toughness In Young People – Approaches to Achievement, Well-being and Positive Behaviour