You Can Do It!
Children’s Books That Promote a Growth Mindset
by Rosemary D'Urso
So much of life is about perception. If children have the mindset from an early age that they can grow with hard work and learn from their mistakes, they are more likely to persevere through challenges and have a more positive outlook. This way of thinking is called a “growth mindset.”
The books below feature characters who showcase a growth mindset by approaching challenges with determination, viewing mistakes as opportunities, and focusing on their efforts instead of the outcomes. These inspiring stories empower children to view their development as an ongoing process.
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Girls on Wheels
Available from:Anila, who just got over a skateboarding injury, is afraid of getting hurt again. When she falls and questions her abilities as a skater, her friends help her find the courage to try again. An empowering story inspire about perseverance inspred by the skateboarding revolution in India.
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The Power of Yeti
Available from:When a young boy becomes frustrated that he can't tie his shoes or shoot soccer goals like his friends, a Yeti shows up to help him discover the power of YETi. He teaches the boy that he may not be great at something ... YETi! But by putting in the work, he will get there.
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Elephants Cannot Dance!
Available from:Elephants can't dance — or so Gerald believes. Piggie convinces him to at least try, but things do not go as planned as Gerald struggles to follow her moves. With perseverance and patience, the dynamic duo learns they can each have their own rhythm and still have fun.
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Jabari Tries
Available from:When Jabari’s attempts at building a flying machine fail, his father teaches him how to calm his emotions, persevere through disappointment, and collaborate with others. Jabari stole my heart as he courageously conquered his fears in Jabari Jumps, and he continues to wow me as he overcomes more obstacles.
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I’m Growing Great
Available from:Using the refrain, “I’m growing each day,” this affirming and inclusive book reminds readers that every day is an opportunity to develop and flourish. Each page is filled with gorgeous illustrations featuring a myriad of flowers perfectly paired with confidence-boosting text.
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The Book of Mistakes
Available from:I love how this book eloquently teaches children that a misstep can transform into something better than we originally intended. When an artist doesn’t like her drawing, she creatively turns it into something new, demonstrating how art (and life) are a process.
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The Little Engine That Could: 90th Anniversary Edition
Available from:This timeless tale is a classic for a reason. When a little engine loaded with toys and treats for children runs out of steam, he must dig deep to find the strength to carry on. With its famous lines of, “I think I can. I think I can.” this inspirational story of a train’s determination and grit empowers readers to believe in themselves and go the extra mile.
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The Dot
Available from:This is one of my all-time favorite children’s books! Discouraged by her art, Vashti wants to give up. When her teacher encourages her to make a simple dot, it inspires her to experiment, making better and better dots until she fills an entire gallery. Deceptively simple, this emboldening story encourages readers to make their mark on the world.
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Knitting for Dogs
Available from:Izzy is a master at creating, so she is surprised that knitting is difficult for her. Although she becomes frustrated with each failed attempt at making a sweater, she persists and grows from the process. Inspired by her dog, she alters her misshapen sweaters into a new idea that spreads joy throughout her community. Full of charm, this heartwarming book is a must-read.
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Rain Before Rainbows
Available from:Absolutely stunning illustrations follow a girl and her pet fox as they travel the world, overcoming many obstacles in this enchanting book. The lyrical text delivers a comforting message that our darkest moments are temporary, and as long as we persevere, there is always hope for a better future.
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Fauja Singh Keeps Going: The True Story of the Oldest Person to Ever Run a Marathon
Available from:“You know yourself, Fauja, and you know what you’re capable of. Today is a chance to do your best.” Fauja Singh took his mother’s inspiring words to heart. Through dedication and willpower, he overcame a childhood disability that prevented him from walking and set world records for running. Fauja’s many accomplishments will amaze children — especially completing a marathon at age 100!
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The Three Ninja Pigs
Available from:Filled with delightful puns, this action-packed fractured fairy tale is entertaining and delivers important messages of dedication, learning from mistakes, and perseverance.
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Tomorrow I’ll Be Brave
Available from:Gorgeous, affirming, hand-lettered words fill the pages of this moving book and encourage children to be their best selves. While readers learn to be adventurous, creative, and confident, they also discover it is okay to be scared and make mistakes. Children will find comfort in knowing that tomorrow is a new day filled with endless possibilities.
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How to Catch a Star
Available from:When a little boy devises a plan to catch a star, he meets one disappointment after another. The resilient boy doesn’t give up, however. He problem-solves and tries more ideas until he eventually finds a star of his own.
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The End is Just the Beginning
Available from:This clever book encourages children to look at life from a new perspective. The lovely watercolor illustrations feature everyday examples of endings transitioning to new beginnings, helping children shift their mindset and learn that life is a continual process.
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The Girl Who Could Fix Anything: Beatrice Shilling, World War II Engineer
Available from:This engaging picture book biography chronicles the life of Beatrice Shilling, who became a skilled engineer. Her dynamic thinking led to the invention of an apparatus that saved British fighter pilots’ lives during World War II. I adore how the story shows Beatrice making many mistakes, but she works through them and achieves her dreams.
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