Praise Matters...

I have just learned about "Mindset" which is a book by psychologist Carol Dweck PhD.  Mindset looks at the difference between a 'growth' vs. 'fixed' mindset.  A fixed mindset is like a dead end. A person with a fixed mindset believes that intelligence and talent are fixed traits and it doesn't really matter what one does.  On the other hand, a growth mindset suggests that intelligence and talent are a starting place, but it is what one does that matters.  Love for learning, resilience, and hard work leads to accomplishment.  

Dr. Dweck's research looks at the type of praise given to children.  What she recommended is to praise effort and the process the child takes - without putting too much focus on the product.  Stay away from comments like, "you are so smart" -  rather, try, "I like how you thought about ways to solve that puzzle!".  Encourage the effort put forth for accomplishments achieved.  Praise the child's willingness to tackle a tough problem.  Help your child learn from mistakes!  If a child takes for granted what he can do easily, he isn't learning how to work for what is challenging. 

A growth mindset is healthy.  How do you encourage a growth mindset in your children?  In yourself? 

Share with me..... I want to learn from you!