We used to think that our intelligence was fixed. We either had the math gene or we didn’t. Scientists have proven again and again that simply is not true. There is not a math gene! Our brain is like a muscle—the more we use it, the stronger (and smarter) our math brain becomes.
Here are a few things families can do to support a growth mindset:
Talk to your child. Ask what they learned today and perhaps what was difficult.
Ask questions to engage them in a Home Connections problem.
- What is the problem about? Tell me in your own words.
- What did you do in class to get started?
- Can you make a diagram or draw a sketch?
- Can you solve a simpler version of the problem?
Encourage the productive struggle! Building with Legos, riding a bike, or throwing a ball are all difficult at first. Praise children’s effort, persistence, and creativity. Notice when they try new strategies and seek input from others when they get stuck.
Discourage the connection between being fast at math and memorizing rules and being a good problem solver. We are all “math people” and think about problems differently. Celebrate that diversity! Change that inner voice. When a child says, “I can’t do this,” re-voice the language to say, “You are ready to learn something new! Or “You can’t do this YET, and I am here when you are willing to try again!”
As teachers, we know how important it is to create partnerships with families. Being aware of our own mindset messages—whether fixed or oriented toward growth—is our first step in creating an environment that encourages ALL of our students to become mathematicians. Then, we’ll be ready to nurture our students and finally our families. A very worthwhile goal for this year, don’t you agree?
