Mental Health

Many mental health issues begin during the school years, so it is logical that mental health education should be a part of the curriculum.

Neuroplasticity is the science behind the growth mindset. It’s the reason we can develop skills and knowledge through effort, practice, and persistence.

One person can make a difference in our world. Having a growth mindset is about believing you can make a contribution to it.

Understanding that any single act of kindness makes an impact in the world; that we can begin to make a difference where we are and that there are many ways one person can make a difference are lessons that inspire children to think about ways they can make a difference at home or in their community.

Our role is to help open their eyes and minds to wonderful possibilities. To help kids develop a growth and resilient mindset so they can face life’s challenges with confidence.

The key components:

Resilience

Gratitude

Growth Mindset

Why Teach Neuroplasticity to Kids?

When kids understand neuroplasticity, their perception of their own abilities also changes. It becomes much easier for them to understand growth mindset and embrace mistakes, obstacles, and challenges.

What Is Neuroplasticity?

Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to change and grow throughout a person’s life. Until recently, scientists thought that this was only possible in early childhood. After that, scientists believed that the brain “solidified” and became fixed in its habits. However, research has shown that the brain continues to change even into old age.

Like a physical muscle, the brain gets stronger the more you use it. The brain is a “pattern-seeking device.” When the neurons in your brain are activated in a particular pattern, it’s faster and easier for your brain to follow that same pattern in the future.

This means when you use your brain to complete a task, the brain “remembers” the task, so next time it becomes a little easier. The time after that, it’s even easier, and so on.

WHAT IS GROWTH MINDSET?

We all have beliefs about our own abilities and potential. These beliefs are part of our mindset which is so powerful it can fuel our behavior and predict our success. Mindset shapes our everyday lives, helping us interpret our experiences and future possibilities.

In her research at Stanford University, Dr. Carol Dweck identified two different types of mindsets. A growth mindset occurs when we believe our intelligence and abilities can be improved upon with effort and the right strategies.

A willingness to confront challenges, a passion for learning, and viewing failure as a springboard for growth are all characteristics associated with a growth mindset. Not surprisingly, this type of mindset is strongly linked to greater happiness and achievement in life.

In contrast, those with a fixed mindset believe their intelligence and abilities cannot be altered in a meaningful way. As a result, mistakes are often seen as failures rather than opportunities to grow and learn. When stuck in a fixed mindset, we may fear new experiences, avoid risks, and feel the need to repeatedly prove ourselves over and over.

Ebook "The boy who liked mistakes" by Ms Bee

Some Interactive Resources