“If parents want to give their children a gift, the best thing they can do is to teach their children to love challenges, be intrigued by mistakes, enjoy effort, and keep on learning.  ― Carol S. Dweck, Mindset: The New Psychology of Success

Carol Dweck, a psychologist and professor at Stanford University, proposed the concept of “growth mindset” nearly 20 years ago in her book Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. She illustrates the difference between a fixed mindset–believing ability and talent are predetermined and limited, versus a growth mindset–believing success depends on motivation, time, and effort. Those with a fixed mindset believe that skills are static and unchangeable. Meanwhile, those with a growth mindset, believe that skills can be developed and improved. Those who have a growth mindset view mistakes and obstacles as opportunities to learn rather than evidence of failure. As an outcome, they are more likely to take on challenges. At The Village School, learners are empowered with growth mindsets that allow them to seek challenges and explore the unknown. 

Here at The Village School, learners are instilled with a growth mindset as they are continually encouraged to step out of their comfort zone, make mistakes, and take responsibility for their education. Rather than relying on standardized tests or grades to dictate academic performance, learners earn badges at their own pace. This alleviates the negative pressure caused by academic grades and allows them to grow academically from a place of curiosity and passion. Instead of utilizing punishments such as time-outs or detentions, learners collectively create a contract that forms an environment where everyone in the studio can thrive. The learners spend lots of time and effort into the contract as they experiment and brainstorm on what is needed to make their studio a sacred space. By giving them room to make mistakes instead of relying on punishments, the learners become open-minded and willing to take risks. Learners are continually empowered to work in their “challenge zone.” They find their challenge zone when they take on tasks that push the boundaries of their skills without feeling overwhelmed and pressured to succeed. This philosophy allows learners to develop a growth mindset, which will serve them greatly as they pursue passions and interests at TVS and beyond.

Families can also help instill a growth mindset in their children at home. The way children are praised at home can have an immense impact on the mindset they develop. Rather than praising them based on their accomplishments and traits, praise them for their hard work, time, and effort. Here are some things you can say to praise your child and nurture a growth mindset:

Instead of…	Say…
Good job!	I can see you worked really hard on this!
What a nice drawing!	I can see that you put a lot of detail in that picture! Can you tell me more about it?
Your project could use some work.	I can see that you are making a lot of progress!
Looks like you didn’t make the team, better luck next time!	You showed a lot of bravery and courage by trying out for the team!
You’re a good person for being nice to your friends.	I noticed being kind to your friends made them really happy.

Another great way for families to nurture a growth mindset in their children is to speak openly about mistakes made, and what was learned from them. When parents treat obstacles and struggles positively, this will show children that taking risks and making mistakes are a natural part of the learning process. Having a growth mindset gives people endless possibilities to achieve their goals and dreams!