How Do I Teach My Child to Have a Growth Mindset?

A dad recently asked me a great question:

“How do I help my child develop a growth mindset?”

I loved this question because it shows how much parents truly want to support their kids as learners and as humans. A growth mindset helps children understand that they are capable, that learning takes time, and that mistakes are not failures but stepping stones.

Here is what I shared with him.

Praise effort, not perfection

Children repeat the things we reinforce. When we focus only on correct answers, they learn to fear being wrong. When we celebrate effort, persistence, and trying again, they learn that growth comes from practice.

Instead of saying “You are so smart,” try:

“You worked so hard on that” or “I noticed how you kept going even when it felt tricky.”

Celebrate mistakes as brain builders

Kids need to know that mistakes are normal and healthy. When a child gets something wrong, it is not the end of the world. It is the beginning of learning.

You can say:

“Mistakes help your brain grow” or “This is how learning works.”

The goal is to take the pressure off and help them feel safe to try.

Model a growth mindset yourself

Children learn by watching. When they see you make mistakes without shutting down or giving up, they learn how to respond to challenges.

You might say:

“I am learning something new too” or “That was hard for me, but I am going to try again.”

Small moments make a big difference.

Read uplifting books together

Stories are powerful tools for shaping how kids think. Books that highlight perseverance, problem solving, and confidence help children internalize positive self talk. Choose stories where characters struggle a little, keep going, and eventually succeed.

You can pause and ask your child:

“What did this character do when something felt hard?”

“How did they solve their problem?”

Books open natural conversations about mindset in a way that feels warm and accessible.

Final thoughts

Helping a child build a growth mindset starts with simple, everyday language and small, intentional actions. Celebrate the trying. Stay curious about mistakes. Show them what perseverance looks like. Share stories that inspire confidence.

Most of all, help them see that learning is a journey and they are capable of amazing progress.