Are you helping to build a growth mindset in the teens in your life?

We all want the best for the teenagers in our lives—but in between test scores, extracurriculars, and social media, one of the most powerful influences we can offer them is often overlooked: a growth mindset.

What’s a Growth Mindset—and Why Does It Matter?

Dr. Carol Dweck, a psychologist at Stanford University, coined the term growth mindset to describe the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort, good strategies, and learning from mistakes. In contrast, a fixed mindset assumes that traits like intelligence are static—you either have it or you don’t.

Research consistently shows that teens with a growth mindset are more motivated, more resilient, and more likely to succeed—not just in school, but in life.

And the best part? This mindset isn’t something kids are just born with. It can be taught.

The Brain Science Behind It

When teens learn about the brain’s ability to grow and adapt (a concept known as neuroplasticity), they’re more likely to persevere in the face of challenges. In fact, studies have shown that even a brief lesson on how the brain changes when we learn can increase a student’s motivation and effort.

One study found that teens who read about brain development performed better on tough tasks and were more willing to try again after failure. Understanding that struggle is part of the brain’s growth process helps teens reframe setbacks as progress—not defeat.

Why Free Play and Independence Matter

Here’s something else to consider: today’s kids have far less unsupervised play than previous generations. According to research from the American Journal of Play, unstructured free time for kids has dropped by over 50% since the 1980s.

This decline in independence means fewer opportunities for kids to take risks, solve problems, and build the emotional muscles they need to handle life’s challenges. When kids don’t get a chance to fall, get up, and try again on their own, they can miss out on crucial experiences that foster resilience—and, yes, a growth mindset.

Your mindset matters

Mindset is not just about what students / teens take to the table. Teacher’s mindsets (and parents!) have a huge impact.  According to an abstract from a study by EA Canning & colleagues in March 2024, “Faculty mindset beliefs predicted student achievement and motivation above and beyond any other faculty characteristic,”

Dr. Dweck also highlighted the findings that even among parents who had a growth mindset themselves, many were unable to ‘pass that on’ to their children. They demonstrated more fixed mindset when reacting to children’s grades and results. 

5 Things You Can Do Today to Support a Growth Mindset

Here’s the good news: helping teens develop a growth mindset doesn’t require a special curriculum or hours of extra time. It starts with how we talk to them—and what we model.

1. Praise the Process, Not the Person

Instead of “You’re so smart,” try: “I saw how hard you worked on that—it really paid off.” Focus on effort, strategies, and persistence.

2. Celebrate Mistakes as Learning Opportunities

Talk openly about your own setbacks and what you learned. Help teens understand that failure isn’t the opposite of success—it’s part of the journey.

3. Teach Them About the Brain

Explain how the brain forms new connections when we face challenges. There are lots of teen-friendly videos and resources on neuroplasticity (try sites like YouTube’s SciShow or TED-Ed).

4. Give Them More Autonomy

Let them take the lead—whether it’s managing their schedule, solving a problem, or even handling a disagreement. Confidence grows with responsibility.

5. Model It Yourself

Show them that you are still learning. Talk about your goals, your efforts, and how you bounce back when things don’t go as planned. 

Final Thought

In a world that often values perfection over progress, helping teens develop a growth mindset is one of the most powerful things we can do as parents, teachers, and mentors.

It’s not about shielding them from challenges. It’s about equipping them with the tools—and the mindset—to face those challenges head-on.

And that’s a skill that will serve them for life.