Blog Post

Why your child needs a growth mindset

March 31, 2023

Thriving in a world of constant change means leaving all the “I can’ts” behind. Here’s why.

We talk a lot about resilience, problem-solving, being lifelong learners, and thriving beyond the challenges of life. The one thing all of these have in common is a growth mindset.

 

What is a growth mindset? It’s believing that the brain has a never-ending capacity to continue learning. This means that when it comes to our abilities and potential, and especially that of our children, there is always room to grow and to learn new things. Because the brain is like a muscle – it can stretch and grow stronger, and you can always create new pathways and ways of thinking because of a function known as neuroplasticity.


It’s about telling challenges and opportunities, “I can!” even when it feels difficult. A growth mindset is about effort playing a bigger role than ability, because by working hard you can achieve bigger things. You’ll notice people with a mindset use phrases like, “This is hard, but I’m going to try,” or, “I can learn how to do this,” and “I can’t do it, yet!”

 

Compare this to a fixed mindset, which is the belief that intelligence, skills and talent reach a point where they can’t be developed any further. That you won’t be able to do something simply because you aren’t good at it, or you don’t know how to. This is where the “I can’t” comes to the fore – the “I’m not good at this,” and “This is too hard.”

 

It’s then easy to see why studies show that children with a growth mindset often outperform those with a fixed mindset and are able to bounce back quicker after failure. This mindset increases motivation, boosts self-confidence, and encourages perseverance. Growth mindsets have also been linked to greater happiness and success later in life.

 

 

Questions that exercise your child’s growth mindset

To encourage a growth mindset in your child, you need to help them see the possibilities and opportunities in challenges. This is about priming the brain to think in a certain way and to change negative thoughts into positive ones. Using the questions below when facing problems and choices helps foster a growth mindset.


What is your brain saying?

Teach your child to think about their thinking, and to use their self-talk for growth. When their brain says they can’t do something, they can say, “No thanks brain, I’m going to try anyway.”


What is the most difficult part, and can you overcome it?

This is about seeing that a problem is often a small part of the whole. And because it’s smaller than it seems, it can be dealt with.


What is a mistake that you can learn from?

Failure is not a bad or scary thing – it’s always an opportunity to learn. So, when your child makes a mistake with something, help them find the learning in it. “I missed the ball this time, but next time I’m going to hold my bat a bit differently and keep my eye on the ball.”


What challenges have you overcome?

This helps your child see themselves be successful problem-solvers and gives them confidence of knowing they can face whatever challenges lie ahead.


What challenge did you overcome today and how did you do that?

This lets your child learn that there are different solutions and strategies to try in any problem and also lets them know that facing challenges is an everyday thing. This isn’t a bad thing, but rather means that we all get to learn new things every single day.


What have you tried already, and what can you try next?

It’s easy to get stuck, and it takes work to get unstuck. So, if one solution to a problem doesn’t work, help your child know that they can always think of another one. It’s also important to let them figure it out without you taking over, so let them work through the struggle and find strategies that work for them.


Have you asked for help?

Instead of giving up when something feels too difficult, teach your child to ask for assistance. Help them vocalise exactly what part of the problem they need help with, for example, “Mom, I could use your help with figuring out this long division. I can divide two digit numbers, so I know I can learn to do this,” or “I have a few questions about this.”

 

Growth mindset activities

           

  • The problem pie

When faced with a problem, split a circle into smaller portions and write down the possible causes in each section. Then, spend some time finding ways to address each of the causes (or pieces) of the problem pie. Often this helps you come up with a number of solutions to try.

 

  • Practise the hard thing

Identify what your child is struggling with, such as tying their shoelaces or writing a two-page essay. Then, let them work at it over a period of time, breaking up the big problem into smaller problems. For example, one day it’s all about tying the laces together in the very first step, the next day it’s about making bunny ears, the next day it’s learning to fold one bunny ear over the other, and the next is learning how to pull one bunny ear through the to tie a knot.

 

  • Add a yet

Learning how to stop saying “I can’t” takes time. To help, take the “I can’t” into “I can” by adding a “yet” to it. For example, “I can’t ride my bike,” becomes, “I can’t ride my bike yet.” This shows your child that there’s the opportunity to learn how.

 

  • Turn negative self-talk around       

Teach your child that their inner voice is there to help them, not condemn them. When their brain says negative things, they can change it into positives. For example, “I can’t count in 5s,” becomes, “I can’t count in fives yet, but I’m going to train my brain to do it.”

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Why the Grade 9 Subject Choice Process is Important The transition from Grade 9 to Grade 10 is a pivotal moment in a South African student’s academic journey. It is during this stage that learners make subject choices that will shape their future career paths and academic trajectories. While Grade 9 students may not yet have a clear vision of their long-term aspirations, understanding the significance of subject selection can help them make informed and strategic decisions. Why Can You Choose Your Subjects in Grade 9? The South African education system allows students to select subjects in Grade 9 to create a pathway that aligns with their interests, strengths, and potential career aspirations. Up until Grade 9, learners follow a generalised curriculum, but from Grade 10 onwards, they start specialising in subjects that will ultimately contribute to their National Senior Certificate (NSC) qualification. The flexibility in choosing subjects is designed to help students focus on areas where they excel and enjoy learning, making their high school experience more meaningful and productive (Department of Basic Education, 2023). The Department of Basic Education highlights that subject choices at this stage have a significant impact on future academic and career pathways. Selecting the right combination of subjects can determine access to university programmes, technical and vocational training, or specialised fields (Department of Basic Education, 2023). Schools, including Crawford International, provide structured subject selection guidance to ensure students and parents understand the weight of these decisions. Why Does Subject Choice Matter? Subject selection has a long-term impact on a student’s educational and professional opportunities. The subjects chosen in Grade 9 will determine the courses available to them in tertiary education and the careers they can pursue. They influence eligibility for specific tertiary education programmes and career fields (South African Qualifications Authority, 2022). Choosing subjects without considering their future implications may limit university and career options, creating unnecessary challenges later on. For example, selecting Mathematics Literacy instead of Pure Mathematics can restrict access to certain degree programmes, particularly in fields like engineering, medicine, and actuarial sciences. Furthermore, making well-informed subject choices can enhance academic performance and motivation. When students select subjects that align with their strengths and interests, they are more likely to remain engaged and perform well. Conversely, poor choices may lead to struggles in comprehension and lower overall academic achievement. What are the Compulsory Subjects? In South Africa, the Department of Basic Education mandates that all students take a set of compulsory subjects to ensure they receive a well-rounded education. These include: Home Language (e.g., English, IsiZulu or Afrikaans, etc.) First Additional Language – (another South African language) Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy – Pure Mathematics is required for careers in science, engineering, and technology, while Mathematical Literacy is an option for students who do not require advanced mathematical skills in their future careers. Life Orientation – This subject focuses on personal development, career guidance, and physical well-being, preparing students for life beyond school. · One additional subject, such as Life Sciences or Business Studies, depending on school requirements (Department of Basic Education, 2023). What are the Elective Subjects? Beyond compulsory subjects, students can select additional subjects based on their interests and future aspirations. Some common elective options in South African schools include: Business Studies – Ideal for students interested in commerce, entrepreneurship, and economic principles. Accounting – Suitable for those considering careers in finance, banking, or auditing. History and Geography – Subjects that develop critical thinking and research skills. Information Technology and Computer Applications Technology (CAT ) – Important for careers in technology, programming, and digital communication. Visual Arts and Drama – For students with an interest in the creative arts and media industries. Each school may offer different elective subjects, and it is crucial for students to research their options and understand the requirements for their intended career path. How Does Subject Choice Impact Career Aspirations? Subject selection plays a fundamental role in shaping future career opportunities. Many universities and technical institutions have specific entry requirements that dictate the subjects a student must have taken in high school. For instance: Medical and Health Sciences: Require Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, and Pure Mathematics. Engineering and Technology Fields: Require Pure Mathematics and Physical Sciences. Law and Humanities: Prefer History and English at a high level. Business and Finance Careers: Benefit from Accounting, Economics, and Business Studies. In the South African job market, demand for STEM-related careers continues to grow, with fields like engineering, data science, and healthcare requiring Mathematics and Physical Sciences (Maharaj, 2020). Meanwhile, the creative economy offers opportunities in digital marketing, graphic design, and content creation, where subjects like Visual Arts and Information Technology play a crucial role (University of Cape Town, 2021). In addition to academic requirements, subject choices can also develop key skills that are valuable in the workplace. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills are nurtured through subjects like Mathematics and Science, while creativity and communication skills are honed through subjects like Visual Arts and English. Making Informed Decisions. Grade 9 students should approach subject selection with careful consideration and seek guidance from teachers, parents, and career advisors. Schools like Crawford International provide career guidance programmes to help students make educated decisions. Career assessment tools, aptitude tests, and consultations with professionals can offer insights into suitable subject combinations based on individual strengths and interests. Additionally, students should think about their personal learning preferences and long-term satisfaction. Choosing subjects simply because they are perceived as ‘easy’ or because peers are taking them may lead to disengagement and regret in later years. Instead, selecting subjects based on passion and aptitude will result in a more fulfilling academic experience. The Grade 9 subject choice process is a crucial milestone in every South African student’s educational journey. Thoughtful subject selection can open doors to exciting career prospects, while uninformed decisions may limit future opportunities. By understanding the importance of this decision and seeking the necessary support, students can confidently navigate this process and set themselves up for success in high school and beyond.
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Determining Your Child’s Personality Type Understanding a child’s personality type is crucial in supporting their development, communication, and learning. Every child is unique, and recognising their individual traits can help parents and teachers nurture their strengths while addressing their challenges. By identifying personality types early, caregivers can tailor their approach to education, discipline, and social interactions, ensuring that children feel understood and supported. In South Africa, where diverse cultural influences shape upbringing and education, recognising personality differences can be especially beneficial in creating inclusive learning environments. What is a Personality Type? A personality type refers to a set of behavioural traits and characteristics that shape how individuals interact with the world. Various theories categorise personality into different types; one of the most widely recognised is Carl Jung’s theory, which forms the basis for the popular Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) (Brown, 2018). While adult personality assessments are well-developed, children’s personalities emerge gradually, influenced by genetic factors, environmental experiences, and social interactions (Smith & Taylor, 2020). In South Africa, many schools incorporate personality-based learning approaches to accommodate diverse student needs, particularly in environments that embrace multiple languages and cultural backgrounds. Signs of Different Personality Types in Children Children display unique behaviours that can indicate their personality type. Some common personality distinctions include: Introverted vs Extroverted: Some children thrive in social settings and seek external stimulation, while others prefer solitude and engage in deep, independent thinking (Johnson, 2019). Logical vs Emotional: Certain children make decisions based on logic and rules, whereas others are more intuitive and empathetic, often prioritising emotions in their interactions (Morris, 2017). This is evident in South African schools, where subjects like Life Orientation encourage both structured reasoning and emotional intelligence. Structured vs Flexible: Organised children prefer routine and predictability, while flexible children adapt easily to new situations and enjoy spontaneity (Lee & Patterson, 2021). In South Africa’s evolving educational landscape, schools that incorporate inquiry-based learning, such as Crawford International, ensure that both structured and adaptable students thrive. Methods for Determining Personality Types Identifying a child’s personality type requires observation, reflection, and sometimes professional assessment. Some effective methods include: Parental and Teacher Observation: Watching how a child reacts in different settings can provide clues about their personality. Do they prefer solitary play or social interactions? Do they follow rules meticulously or question authority? (Williams, 2022). Personality Questionnaires: While formal tests like the MBTI are often used for adults, child-friendly personality assessments can help identify dominant traits (Harris & Clarke, 2019). Many private schools use such assessments to tailor learning strategies to individual students. Educational and Psychological Assessments: In cases where personality influences learning challenges, professionals may conduct in-depth evaluations to guide support strategies (Naidoo, 2021). How Child Personality Influences Learning Styles Personality plays a significant role in how children engage with education. Some key influences include: Introverted learners may excel in individual tasks but struggle with classroom participation. Teachers can support them by allowing alternative ways to express knowledge, such as written reflections (Peters, 2020). Extroverted learners benefit from interactive and discussion-based learning but may need guidance in focusing on independent tasks (Clarkson, 2018). Logical thinkers often excel in structured subjects like Mathematics but may need encouragement to explore creative expression (Ngcobo, 2019). Emotionally driven children engage deeply with literature and arts but may require help developing analytical skills (Mthembu, 2020). In South Africa, the integration of digital education tools, such as those used at Crawford International, allows teachers to personalise learning experiences, ensuring that different personality types receive the support they need. Parenting Strategies Tailored to Different Personality Types Understanding a child’s personality type can guide parenting techniques. Some strategies include: For introverted children : Create a calm, quiet space for them to recharge after social interactions. Encourage deep conversations rather than forcing group activities (Miller, 2019). For extroverted children : Provide opportunities for social engagement, such as playdates and extracurricular activities, to help them thrive (Singh, 2021). For logical thinkers : Encourage structured activities like puzzles and problem-solving games while also exposing them to creative outlets (Jansen, 2018). For emotionally driven children : Validate their feelings and teach them emotional regulation strategies to balance empathy with resilience (Patel, 2020). South African families often embrace a communal parenting approach, where extended relatives contribute to a child’s upbringing. 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