18 Perfect Read-Alouds for Teaching Growth Mindset
Introduction:
Teaching growth mindset to students is essential for their overall development and success. By choosing the right read-aloud books, educators can effectively instill a growth mindset in their students. In this article, we will explore 18 perfect read-alouds that can inspire and motivate students to embrace challenges, persevere through obstacles, and develop a positive attitude towards learning.
1. “The Dot” by Peter H. Reynolds:
This heartwarming story follows a young girl named Vashti who discovers her own artistic potential and learns the power of believing in oneself.
2. “The Most Magnificent Thing” by Ashley Spires:
Through the story of a young girl’s determination to build the most magnificent thing, this book teaches children the value of resilience, perseverance, and embracing mistakes as stepping stones to success.
3. “Beautiful Oops!” by Barney Saltzberg:
With its interactive and engaging format, this book turns unexpected mistakes into opportunities for creativity and growth, encouraging readers to embrace imperfections and learn from them.
4. “Giraffes Can’t Dance” by Giles Andreae:
This delightful tale follows Gerald, a giraffe who feels discouraged because he can’t dance like the other animals. By embracing his uniqueness and believing in himself, Gerald discovers his own rhythm and confidence.
5. “The Little Engine That Could” by Watty Piper:
This classic story teaches children the importance of perseverance and effort through the inspiring journey of a small blue engine determined to overcome obstacles and reach its destination.
6. “The Energy Bus for Kids” by Jon Gordon:
Through the character, George, and his magical school bus adventure, this book teaches children the power of positive thinking, resilience, and developing optimistic attitudes.
7. “Rosie Revere, Engineer” by Andrea Beaty:
This empowering book encourages children, especially girls, to follow their passions, embrace failures, and persist in pursuing their dreams.
8. “Ish” by Peter H. Reynolds:
By exploring the concept of “ish,” this book encourages children to embrace their own unique abilities and ideas, promoting a growth mindset that values effort and creativity.
9. “Salt in His Shoes” by Deloris Jordan and Roslyn M. Jordan:
Based on the childhood of basketball superstar Michael Jordan, this book teaches children the importance of determination, practice, and having a strong work ethic.
10. “She Persisted” by Chelsea Clinton:
Featuring the inspiring stories of 13 women who overcame obstacles and changed the world, this book encourages children to embrace resilience, tenacity, and the power of never giving up.
11. “The Day the Crayons Quit” by Drew Daywalt:
Through a series of letters from disgruntled crayons, this book highlights the importance of embracing individuality, creativity, and accepting different perspectives.
12. “What Do You Do With a Problem?” by Kobi Yamada:
This thought-provoking book encourages children to view problems as opportunities for growth, resilience, and creative problem-solving.
13. “The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes” by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein:
This humorous story follows a perfectionist girl named Beatrice who learns the importance of taking risks, embracing mistakes, and realizing that failure is an essential part of life.
14. “Your Fantastic Elastic Brain” by JoAnn Deak:
With colorful illustrations and engaging language, this book explains how the brain works and encourages children to develop a growth mindset by embracing challenges and practicing resilience.
15. “The Lion Inside” by Rachel Bright:
Through the story of a timid little mouse who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and courage, this book teaches the importance of believing in oneself and embracing inner strength.
16. “What Do You Do With an Idea?” by Kobi Yamada:
This beautifully illustrated book encourages children to embrace their creativity, nurture their ideas, and have the confidence to share them with the world.
17. “The OK Book” by Amy Krouse Rosenthal:
With its simple and empowering message, this book encourages children to celebrate their uniqueness and realize that being “okay” at something can lead to growth and improvement over time.
18. “Emmanuel’s Dream” by Laurie Ann Thompson:
Based on a true story, this inspiring book follows Emmanuel Ofosu Yeboah, a young boy from Ghana with a physical disability, who overcomes societal obstacles and demonstrates the power of resilience, determination, and a growth mindset.
Conclusion:
By incorporating these 18 perfect read-alouds into your classroom, you can create an engaging and inspiring learning environment that fosters a growth mindset in your students. Through these stories, children will learn the value of effort and perseverance.