Growth Mindset
Written for Through the Woods by Cole Isbister
A growth mindset is a helpful concept when supporting children’s emotional and developmental growth. It focuses on how children understand learning, challenges, and their ability to develop new skills over time.
What is a growth mindset?
A growth mindset is the belief that abilities, intelligence, and skills can be developed through effort, practice, and learning. Children with this mindset tend to see challenges as something they can work through rather than as evidence that they are “not good at something.”
This is different from a fixed mindset, where a child may believe their abilities are set and cannot change. With a fixed mindset, mistakes can feel discouraging and may lead to avoidance of challenges.
What can this look like?
In everyday life, a growth mindset can show up in small but meaningful ways, such as:
● A child saying “I can try a different way” instead of “I can’t do this”
● Persisting with homework or tasks even when they are challenging
● Trying again after making mistakes in school, sports, or friendships
● Being open to feedback and using it to improve
● Showing curiosity and willingness to learn new skills
Possible signs of a fixed mindset in children?
● Avoiding new or challenging tasks due to fear of failure
● Giving up quickly when something feels difficult
● Saying things like “I’m just not good at this”
● Becoming easily frustrated or shut down when mistakes happen
● Believing effort won’t make a difference
Why does a Growth Mindset matter?
A growth mindset can support children in several important areas:
Resilience
Children are more likely to keep trying after setbacks and see difficulties as part of the learning process.
Confidence
When effort and progress are emphasized, children often feel more capable, even when tasks are challenging.
Learning from mistakes
Mistakes are viewed as part of learning rather than something to fear or avoid.
Motivation
Children are more likely to stay engaged when they believe improvement is possible.
It is normal for children to feel frustrated or discouraged when something feels difficult. In these moments, supportive adults can help them reframe the experience and notice progress rather than just the outcome. Over time, this helps build resilience, confidence, and a healthier approach to challenges.
Some simple ways to support this include:
● Praising effort, persistence, and problem-solving rather than focusing only on outcomes
● Encouraging children to try new or challenging activities
● Normalizing mistakes as part of learning
● Modelling a growth mindset by sharing your own challenges and learning experiences
● Using language such as “You haven’t learned it yet” instead of “You can’t do it.”
Final thoughts:
A growth mindset helps children understand that abilities are not fixed and that learning and improvement are always possible. Encouraging this way of thinking can support children in developing skills that benefit them in school, relationships, and everyday life.
At Through the Woods Psychology in Calgary, we not only have psychologists and counsellors that can direct bill to most insurance companies, but also counselling therapist interns that can offer low-cost or no-cost therapy to those who are unable to afford sessions or do not have insurance. Sessions are done in person or online.
Visit our website to learn more or to book your free consultation today. You can also get in touch by email at info@throughthewoods.ca or phone at (403) 984-7922.
Resources:
Yeager, D. S., & Dweck, C. S. (2012). Mindsets That Promote Resilience: When Students Believe That Personal Characteristics Can Be Developed. Educational Psychologist, 47(4), 302–314. https://doi.org/10.1080/00461520.2012.722805