For their fall developmental guidance unit, our 2nd grade students are learning all about growing their brains. The idea that we can grow our brains comes from the concept of growth mindset. This concept, developed by Carol Dweck, PhD., is based on the belief that our qualities (intelligence, traits, talents) can be developed through dedication and effort. It helps promote resiliency, stamina, and effort. People with a growth mindset believe that through pursuing challenges, using multiple strategies to solve problems, and fixing mistakes they can become smarter.
To help take this concept and make it "2nd grade friendly", we are talking about ways to grow our brains. Students learned that brains need challenges to grow, and when we do things that are too easy they fall asleep! When we work hard at challenges and use strategies to solve problems, these challenges become easier, and eventually turn into skills or abilities we have. You can ask your 2nd grader to explain how learning to walk grew their brain, and why math class every day cannot be 1 + 1 = 2!
For more information on this topic, see the videos below! You can also visit Carol Dweck's website at www.mindsetonline.com
To help take this concept and make it "2nd grade friendly", we are talking about ways to grow our brains. Students learned that brains need challenges to grow, and when we do things that are too easy they fall asleep! When we work hard at challenges and use strategies to solve problems, these challenges become easier, and eventually turn into skills or abilities we have. You can ask your 2nd grader to explain how learning to walk grew their brain, and why math class every day cannot be 1 + 1 = 2!
For more information on this topic, see the videos below! You can also visit Carol Dweck's website at www.mindsetonline.com
An "adult friendly" video that helps explain growth mindset
A "kid friendly" video to help with growth mindset - 2nd graders are watching this in their lessons!