For Josh Blackburn, a second-grade teacher in Tennessee, helping his students develop a growth mindset is essential for their long-term development. A growth mindset can help students develop the perseverance to overcome challenges inside and outside the classroom.
“Cultivating a growth mindset in your students is integral to their success in academic endeavors and life in general,” says Blackburn. “Students learn about the thought process of telling oneself ‘I just can’t do this yet.’”
Here are three ways your students can use books to learn persistence, perseverance, and the “power of yet” to develop a growth mindset.
1. Dive Into Books About Overcoming Challenges
At the beginning of each school year, Blackburn likes to spend the first few weeks reading fiction books featuring characters who overcome challenges. These stories are a great introduction to a growth mindset, showing it in action with a fun and relatable character, and provide a foundation for further development throughout the year.
When Things Aren't Going Right, Go Left and Akim Aliu: Dreamer are two great stories to start with. After reading, Blackburn recommends discussing with your students how the main character’s attitude and beliefs helped them overcome their obstacles.