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How to Cultivate a Growth Mindset at Home

Growth mindset is the belief that talents and skills can be developed through dedication and hard work, that failures often teach us a lesson rather than define us, and that trying new things can be scary but rewarding.  

A growth mindset is not something students always come to naturally; many begin school in a fixed mindset and learn from challenges as they progress. Cultivating a growth mindset in students is an ongoing process that doesn’t end with the school year—parents also play an essential role in the development of a child’s growth mindset. Here are five tips for encouraging a growth mindset at home. 

Tip #1: Emphasize persistence

Encourage your child to focus on the ongoing process of learning rather than solely on the outcome or grade. Effort and hard work applied over time are essential for growth, and it can be helpful to highlight their progress and remind them of how far they’ve come, even if they haven't achieved the desired result yet.

Tip #2: Foster a love of learning

Help your child develop a curiosity and passion for learning by participating in activities together. For instance, take them to a public library or Little Free Library in your area to find books that spark interest; seek out online courses that align with their aspirations; and consistently engage in discussions about topics of interest to encourage the development of critical-thinking skills.

Tip #3: Promote a positive attitude toward challenges

Maintaining a positive frame of mind during the challenging part of a learning progress can make a huge difference. While failure is a natural part of the learning process, helping students reframe failure as a learning opportunity rather than a setback can assist in further cultivating a growth mindset. Parents can model this, too, by being open about your own setbacks and lessons learned.

Tip #4: Set realistic goals

Setting realistic, achievable goals that align with your child’s interests and abilities—by breaking down larger goals into smaller milestones—can help make progress feel tangible. Celebrating students’ accomplishments and milestones along the way can further provide motivation and positive reinforcement. 

Tip #5: Encourage resilience

Encouraging them to develop problem-solving skills, seek assistance when necessary, and view setbacks as opportunities for growth can all foster resilience. Additionally, you can help your student engage in self-reflection about their strengths and areas for improvement. That self-awareness can help your child remain confident during challenging experiences.


Remember, cultivating a growth mindset takes patience and consistency. As a parent, you can be an encouraging presence for your child as they learn that challenges oftentimes provide the most meaningful opportunities for both personal and academic growth.