25 Children’s Books to Teach the Growth Mindset

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Looking for the right book to teach your kid about a growth mindset?

In today’s article, we’re sharing a curated list of growth mindset books that teach kids about the value of perseverance, hard work, making mistakes, and loving and believing in themselves.

These books help cultivate resilience in our children.

Resilience is a trait they need in order to cope with and overcome the challenges they’ll face as they make their way in the world. It’s best if they develop this trait early in life.

Briefly, a growth mindset is a belief that what we know can be improved on. It is also the belief that our intelligence can expand as time passes and we gain more experience.

Conversely, a fixed mindset is the belief that our intelligence, talents, and skills are set to a certain limit. It is the conviction that what we are at birth can not be changed.

Dr. Carol Dweck, a Stanford University professor and researcher, identified these ideas and described them in detail. You can read more in-depth information about these two mindsets and Dr. Dweck’s study in this post, and learn which is more important for success.

In the meantime, let’s check out the books in today’s collection.

25 Best Growth Mindset Books for Children

1. The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes by Gary Rubinstein and Mark Pett

The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes by Gary Rubinstein and Mark Pett

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Takeaways:

  • The book conveys the message that it's okay to make mistakes and that perfection is not necessary for happiness or success.
  • Embracing imperfection and learning from mistakes is an important part of personal growth and development, as depicted through the protagonist's journey.
  • The story highlights the value of taking risks and trying new things, even if it means making mistakes along the way.
  • It emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and resilience in the face of setbacks, encouraging readers to approach challenges with a positive and determined mindset.
  • The book promotes the idea that making mistakes is a natural part of life, and it's how we respond to and learn from them that matters most.

Kids often experience a lot of pressure to excel. This happens whether they’re in school, at home, or with friends. Gary Rubinstein and Mark Pett’s book is what kids need to assure them that it’s okay to make mistakes and that perfection is overrated.

The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes introduces us to Beatrice Bottomwell, a girl who has never made a mistake—ever! However, Beatrice eventually does make a mistake, during an important event.

The book encourages kids (and parents and teachers, too) to dream big. Furthermore, it shows that those who have big dreams will likely experience mistakes when fulfilling them—and the process of learning from mistakes can be fun.

2. Whistle for Willie by Ezra Jack Keats

Whistle for Willie by Ezra Jack Keats

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Takeaways:

  • The book celebrates the perseverance and determination of a young boy who learns to whistle, showcasing the rewards of patience and practice.
  • It conveys the message that achieving a goal often requires dedication and effort, as demonstrated through the protagonist's journey to master whistling.
  • The story highlights the joy of small victories and the sense of accomplishment that comes from overcoming challenges, inspiring readers to pursue their own aspirations.
  • It emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself and maintaining a positive attitude, even when faced with initial setbacks or difficulties.
  • The book encourages children to embrace the learning process and to find delight in their progress, fostering a sense of confidence and resilience.

The process of learning a new skill can sometimes be frustrating, especially if we’re not seeing immediate results. Kids are often prone to giving up when they don’t learn something fast enough.

In Whistle for Willie, we see the world through Peter’s eyes as he attempts to learn how to whistle for his dog Willie. Peter becomes more determined to learn when another boy who knows how to whistle gets Willie’s attention.

In this classic, beautifully illustrated children’s book, kids learn about the value of persistence.

3. She Persisted by Chelsea Clinton

She Persisted by Chelsea Clinton

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Takeaways:

  • She Persisted celebrates the resilience and determination of thirteen American women who overcame obstacles and made significant contributions to society.
  • The book inspires readers, especially young girls, to pursue their goals and dreams with courage and perseverance, regardless of challenges they may face.
  • Through the stories of these trailblazing women, the book highlights the importance of standing up for one's beliefs and advocating for positive change.
  • It emphasizes the power of resilience and tenacity in the face of adversity, encouraging readers to persist in the pursuit of their passions and aspirations.
  • She Persisted serves as a reminder that individuals have the ability to make a meaningful impact, and that perseverance can lead to remarkable achievements.

If you need resources for kids—especially girls—related to speaking up, having ambitions, and believing in themselves, this book is worth considering. It is also a wonderful resource for lessons on persevering in the face of adversity.

She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World features the stories of 13 individuals who displayed courage amidst adversity and persisted until they reached their dreams. The women featured in the book include Harriet Tubman, Helen Keller, Sonia Sotomayor, and Oprah Winfrey.

This book celebrates American women who changed the course of history by standing up for what they knew was right and believing that they could take on the challenges on the path to a better world.

4. Mistakes That Worked by Charlotte Foltz Jones

Mistakes That Worked by Charlotte Foltz Jones

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Takeaways:

  • Mistakes That Worked showcases a collection of serendipitous inventions and discoveries that originated from unexpected errors and mishaps.
  • The book highlights the value of embracing and learning from mistakes, as many of history's most significant innovations were born from unintended blunders.
  • It emphasizes the importance of open-mindedness and adaptability, as some of the world's most transformative inventions emerged from failed experiments and unforeseen outcomes.
  • The stories in the book illustrate how creativity, resilience, and a willingness to explore new possibilities can turn mistakes into valuable breakthroughs.
  • Mistakes That Worked serves as a reminder that setbacks and errors can often lead to unexpected and beneficial outcomes, encouraging readers to approach mistakes with a positive and inquisitive mindset.

Mistakes That Worked: 40 Familiar Inventions and How They Came to Be is another book that assures kids that making a mistake is ok, and that something beautiful can come out of it.

The book is a compilation of familiar, every-day items that were discovered or created by accident. Take the potato chip, for example.

A customer at a restaurant kept sending her order of fried potatoes back to the kitchen because “they weren’t thin enough.” Out of frustration, the chef sliced the potatoes very thinly before frying them. His recipe became a hit.

5. What Should Danny Do? by Ganit and Adir Levy

What Should Danny Do? by Ganit and Adir Levy

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Takeaways:

  • What Should Danny Do? is an interactive children's book that empowers young readers to make choices for the protagonist, Danny, and see the consequences of those choices.
  • The book emphasizes the idea that every choice we make has an impact, and it encourages children to consider the outcomes of their actions.
  • Through the interactive format, the book teaches children about responsibility and the power they have to shape their own experiences and relationships.
  • It promotes the concept of personal agency and the idea that even small decisions can make a difference, fostering a sense of accountability and critical thinking in young readers.
  • What Should Danny Do? provides an engaging way for children to learn about decision-making and the ripple effects of their choices, empowering them to make thoughtful and positive decisions in their own lives.

Kids will enjoy this interactive book that follows the story of Danny, a boy training to become a superhero, as he makes choices that impact his life in big ways. What Should Danny Do? is written in the style of a “choose your own adventure story.”

Through the outcome of every choice they make about Danny’s adventures, kids will realize how their own choices can affect their lives. They will also eventually grasp the value of making the right choices to make the day—and their lives—the way they want it to be.

6. After the Fall (How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again) by Dan Santat

After the Fall (How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again) by Dan Santat

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Takeaways:

  • After the Fall explores the theme of resilience and the journey of overcoming fear and adversity, using the well-known character of Humpty Dumpty to convey its message.
  • The book illustrates the process of healing and rebuilding confidence after experiencing a setback, offering a hopeful and uplifting narrative for readers of all ages.
  • It conveys the idea that it's possible to move forward and thrive after a fall or failure, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and courage.
  • Through the protagonist's story, the book encourages readers to confront their fears and pursue their aspirations, despite the challenges they may face.
  • After the Fall serves as a reminder that setbacks can be transformative, and that it's possible to emerge stronger and more resilient in the face of adversity.

As a kid, have you ever wondered what happened to Humpty Dumpty after his great fall? This book takes that hypothetical question and explores a possible scenario in the life of one of the most famous nursery rhymes characters.

In After the Fall (How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again), Humpty Dumpty recovers from the fall, but was traumatized by the experience. He is now afraid of heights and can no longer function normally to enjoy the activities he previously loved doing.

This book explores how fear can paralyze us and what we can do about it if we want our lives back. It teaches kids about the importance of facing fears in order to move forward.

7. Beautiful Oops! by Barney Saltzberg

Beautiful Oops! by Barney Saltzberg

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Takeaways:

  • Beautiful Oops! encourages readers to embrace mistakes and see them as opportunities for creativity and innovation, fostering a positive and resilient mindset.
  • The book illustrates how unexpected errors can be transformed into something beautiful and meaningful, inspiring readers to approach imperfections with curiosity and openness.
  • It conveys the message that there are endless possibilities for turning mistakes into something wonderful, promoting a sense of adaptability and resourcefulness.
  • Through interactive elements and imaginative illustrations, the book invites readers to explore the potential of “oops moments” and to view them as valuable stepping stones in the creative process.
  • Beautiful Oops! serves as a reminder that mistakes can lead to unexpected and delightful outcomes, encouraging readers to see the beauty in imperfection and to embrace the creative potential of every mishap.

“Hooray for mistakes!” this book tells us. But what exactly happens when we make mistakes?

Beautiful Oops! is a wonderful teaching resource for showing kids how we can transform mistakes into beautiful creations, especially in art.

The book also provides inspiration for creative kids to see unconventional ways of creating art and transforming errors into something magnificent. It is packed with clever paper engineering—lift-the-flap pages, bends, folds, and smudges—that show kids the beautiful possibilities of a mistake.

8. The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires

The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires

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Takeaways:

  • The Most Magnificent Thing conveys the message that perseverance and creativity are essential in the face of challenges, as the protagonist embarks on a determined quest to create something extraordinary.
  • The book emphasizes the value of resilience and problem-solving, illustrating how setbacks and frustration can ultimately lead to innovation and success.
  • It encourages readers to embrace the process of trial and error, promoting a growth mindset and the idea that mistakes are integral to the journey of creation.
  • Through the protagonist's journey, the book highlights the importance of patience and determination in achieving one's goals, fostering a sense of resilience and adaptability.
  • The Most Magnificent Thing serves as a reminder that setbacks and obstacles are natural parts of the creative process, and that persistence and ingenuity can lead to the realization of remarkable achievements.

The Most Magnificent Thing encourages kids to explore, create, invent, and try new things. Moreover, the book teaches young readers to appreciate hard work and perseverance.

The story is told from the viewpoint of a girl who loves to make things. However, things don’t go as she planned. After numerous frustrations, she decides to give up. Will she still be able to make the most magnificent thing?

The book is charmingly illustrated and depicts the girl’s emotions at every turn. It is also a good resource for teaching kids how to deal with their emotions.

9. I Can Do Hard Things by Gabi Garcia

I Can Do Hard Things by Gabi Garcia

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Takeaways:

  • I Can Do Hard Things encourages readers to embrace challenges and develop resilience, promoting the idea that facing difficult situations can lead to personal growth.
  • The book emphasizes the importance of self-empowerment and positive thinking, inspiring readers to approach adversity with courage and determination.
  • It conveys the message that it's normal to face tough circumstances, and it encourages readers to believe in their ability to overcome obstacles and thrive.
  • Through affirming and uplifting language, the book fosters a sense of self-confidence and inner strength, empowering readers to navigate life's difficulties with a positive and resilient mindset.
  • I Can Do Hard Things serves as a reminder that challenges can be opportunities for learning and transformation, and it encourages readers to believe in their capacity to overcome adversity and achieve their goals.

We all need affirmations—especially kids. They help kids navigate the world and show them how to cope with challenges they encounter.

I Can Do Hard Things: Mindful Affirmations for Kids encourages kids to look within themselves and discover that they are capable of taking on what the day brings.

The affirmations contained in this book introduce kids to the practice of mindfulness. More importantly, this book teaches kids to value their self-worth.

10. The Bad Seed by Jory John

The Bad Seed by Jory John

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Takeaways:

  • The Bad Seed explores the themes of self-awareness and personal transformation, as the protagonist challenges negative stereotypes and strives to change his behavior.
  • The book conveys the message that individuals have the capacity to grow and change, emphasizing the power of self-reflection and positive choices.
  • It encourages readers to look beyond surface judgments and to recognize the potential for redemption and renewal within themselves and others.
  • Through the protagonist's journey, the book highlights the importance of empathy and understanding, promoting a message of second chances and personal growth.
  • The Bad Seed serves as a reminder that individuals can break free from negative patterns and cultivate positive change, inspiring readers to embrace the potential for transformation and a fresh start.

In The Bad Seed, we are introduced to a self-confessed bad seed. He disturbs the peace. His manners and hygiene are an abomination. However, he was made that way by the circumstances in his past.

Unfortunately, when an opportunity for him to change arrives, others still think of him as a bad seed.

This book teaches several important lessons. It teaches kids the value of self-reflection. Furthermore, it demonstrates the negative effects of bullying. It also shows the impact of self-fulfilling prophecies and a fixed mindset.

11. Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty

Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty

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Takeaways:

  • Rosie Revere, Engineer celebrates creativity, perseverance, and the value of embracing failure as a stepping stone to success, inspiring readers to pursue their passions with determination.
  • The book highlights the importance of resilience and innovation, encouraging children to explore their interests and to view challenges as opportunities for learning and growth.
  • It conveys the message that making mistakes is an integral part of the learning process, fostering a positive and resilient attitude towards setbacks and obstacles.
  • Through the protagonist's story, the book promotes the idea that with determination and ingenuity, anything is possible, empowering young readers to believe in their ability to make a meaningful impact.
  • Rosie Revere, Engineer serves as a reminder that creativity and perseverance can lead to remarkable achievements, encouraging children to embrace their curiosity and to pursue their dreams with enthusiasm and resilience.

Rosie Revere, Engineer is for those who have been told “no” repeatedly while pursuing their dreams. It teaches kids the value of keeping their passion alive for the things they care about, despite the challenges and setbacks on the way to achieving the things they want in life.

The story introduces us to Rosie Revere, a shy girl who loves to invent marvelous gizmos. She is afraid of showing her work to others for fear of failure, but all of that changes when she receives a visit from a formidable relative.

The book tells readers that “You can only truly fail if you quit.

12. Unstoppable Me! by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer and Kristina Tracy

Unstoppable Me! by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer and Kristina Tracy

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Takeaways:

  • Unstoppable Me! encourages children to embrace their unique qualities and strengths, fostering a positive self-image and a sense of empowerment.
  • The book promotes the idea that children have the ability to overcome challenges and achieve their goals, inspiring them to approach life with confidence and resilience.
  • It conveys the message that positive thinking and self-belief are essential for navigating life's ups and downs, promoting a mindset of determination and optimism.
  • Through affirming language and relatable scenarios, the book encourages children to recognize their potential and to cultivate a can-do attitude.
  • Unstoppable Me! serves as a reminder that children possess inner strength and the capacity to make a positive impact, inspiring them to embrace their individuality and to pursue their dreams with courage and enthusiasm.

Unstoppable Me!: 10 Ways to Soar Through Life encourages children to expand their thinking and make it limitless. Written by the father of motivation, Dr. Wayne Dyer, this book reflects his belief that all of us were born without limits, and children should tap into this rather than just trying to fit in.

Through this book, kids learn 10 important lessons about becoming unstoppable in going after their dreams. It assures young readers that they have greatness within them, no matter what!

The book also comes with questions to help reinforce its message and facilitate discussions about self-acceptance, believing in yourself, and persistence.

13. The 3 Minute Gratitude Journal for Kids by Modern Kid Press

The 3 Minute Gratitude Journal for Kids by Modern Kid Press

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Takeaways:

  • The 3 Minute Gratitude Journal for Kids encourages children to cultivate a positive mindset by reflecting on things they are thankful for each day.
  • The journal promotes the practice of gratitude as a way to foster resilience, optimism, and emotional well-being in children.
  • It provides a simple and accessible tool for children to develop a habit of acknowledging and appreciating the positive aspects of their lives.
  • The journal prompts children to focus on moments of joy and kindness, nurturing a sense of appreciation and mindfulness.
  • By engaging in daily gratitude exercises, children can develop a greater sense of happiness, empathy, and contentment in their daily lives.

Children can benefit from being introduced to a gratitude habit early on. The 3 Minute Gratitude Journal for Kids is an avenue for cultivating this habit in young people.

It teaches them to look for the simple joys in life and appreciate them. The gratefulness prompts include looking for three things to be thankful for from the day. The book also encourages children to write about or draw the best parts of their days.

It’s not only children who can benefit from cultivating a habit of gratefulness. Adults can also infuse their days with positivity by writing in their own gratitude journals. Check out this review to help you choose the best gratitude journal for you.

14. Rumple Buttercup by Matthew Gray Gubler

Rumple Buttercup by Matthew Gray Gubler

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Takeaways:

  • Rumple Buttercup celebrates individuality and self-acceptance, encouraging readers to embrace their unique qualities and quirks.
  • The book conveys the message that everyone has value and deserves to be accepted for who they are, promoting empathy and inclusivity.
  • It emphasizes the importance of kindness and understanding, inspiring readers to appreciate the diversity of personalities and appearances.
  • Through the protagonist's journey, the book highlights the beauty of being true to oneself and finding joy in one's uniqueness.
  • Rumple Buttercup serves as a reminder that it's okay to be different, and it encourages readers to celebrate their individuality and to treat others with compassion and respect.

Rumple Buttercup: A Story of Bananas, Belonging, and Being Yourself teaches the reader about acceptance, self-love, belonging, and individuality.

Children will be inspired by the story of Rumple Buttercup, a creature who has green skin, three strands of hair, and five crooked teeth. As far as appearances go, Rumple is weird.

Follow Rumple’s story as he discovers the marvels of individuality and the heartwarming magic of belonging.

15. Strong Is the New Pretty by Kate T. Parker

Strong Is the New Pretty by Kate T. Parker

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Takeaways:

  • Strong Is the New Pretty celebrates the diverse strengths and inner beauty of girls, challenging traditional stereotypes and promoting empowerment.
  • The book showcases the resilience, confidence, and authenticity of girls through powerful photography and personal stories, inspiring readers to embrace their unique qualities.
  • It conveys the message that strength comes in many forms, encouraging girls to be true to themselves and to pursue their passions with courage and determination.
  • Through the captivating images and narratives, the book highlights the importance of self-expression and self-acceptance, fostering a sense of confidence and resilience in young girls.
  • Strong Is the New Pretty serves as a reminder that girls are capable, bold, and extraordinary, and it encourages them to celebrate their individuality and to define their own version of strength and beauty.

Kids need to see their potential, and what their futures can contain. They need the affirmation that what they are on the inside matters more than their physical appearances.

Strong Is the New Pretty: A Celebration of Girls Being Themselves celebrates strong girls in their element. It assures every child that real beauty is more than skin deep. As the title declares, “Strong is the new pretty.”

16. Salt in His Shoes by Deloris Jordan and Roslyn M. Jordan

Salt in His Shoes by Deloris Jordan and Roslyn M. Jordan

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Takeaways:

  • Salt in His Shoes shares the inspiring story of Michael Jordan's childhood and his determination to overcome challenges and achieve his dreams.
  • The book conveys the message that perseverance, hard work, and self-belief are essential for reaching one's goals, inspiring readers to pursue their aspirations with dedication.
  • It emphasizes the importance of resilience and the support of family in overcoming obstacles, promoting a message of encouragement and determination.
  • Through the protagonist's journey, the book highlights the value of patience and perseverance in the pursuit of excellence, fostering a sense of resilience and ambition in young readers.
  • Salt in His Shoes serves as a reminder that with determination and support, individuals can overcome adversity and achieve greatness, inspiring readers to strive for their own aspirations with unwavering dedication.

Michael Jordan’s name is synonymous with basketball itself. Many people admire him for his accomplishments on the basketball court, as well as his philanthropy.

Salt in His Shoes: Michael Jordan in Pursuit of His Dreams tells the story of when Michael Jordan started becoming passionate about basketball. It tells of how he felt limited because of his stature.

The book reminds kids that a willingness to work hard for their dreams is often the ticket to making them a reality.

Michael Jordan’s mother Deloris and sister Roslyn teamed up to write this book and share his story with the rest of the world.

17. The Magical Yet by Angela DiTerlizzi

the magical yet | growth mindset books for teachers | growth mindset books for parents

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Takeaways:

  • The Magical Yet encourages a growth mindset by showing that challenges can be overcome with effort and persistence, fostering resilience and determination in young readers.
  • The book conveys the message that the word “yet” holds the potential for growth and learning, inspiring children to approach difficulties with optimism and a belief in their own potential.
  • It emphasizes the power of “yet” as a transformative word that signifies progress and possibility, promoting a sense of resilience and perseverance in the face of setbacks.
  • Through engaging storytelling, the book illustrates the idea that with time and effort, what may seem impossible now can become achievable in the future, nurturing a positive and determined outlook.
  • The Magical Yet serves as a reminder that challenges are opportunities for growth, and it encourages children to embrace the journey of learning and development with a hopeful and resilient mindset.

The word “Yet” holds so much power and promise, and is a perfect growth mindset word. This book is for kids who feel frustrated over the things they cannot do yet.

The Magical Yet teaches kids how to transform a negative experience into a positive one. It encourages them to look for possibilities. The story invites them to embrace challenges they encounter for the valuable lessons they impart. In the end, we all have stuff we don’t know—yet.

To learn more about the power of language in teaching kids about growth mindset, read this post on growth mindset phrases.

18. Your Fantastic, Elastic Brain by JoAnn Deak

your fantastic elastic brain | growth mindset book pdf | growth mindset for kids

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Takeaways:

  • Your Fantastic, Elastic Brain introduces children to the concept of neuroplasticity, teaching them that their brains can grow and change with effort and practice.
  • The book conveys the message that mistakes and challenges are opportunities for brain growth, fostering a positive attitude towards learning and resilience.
  • It emphasizes the importance of perseverance and the development of a growth mindset, inspiring children to approach new tasks and difficulties with confidence and determination.
  • Through engaging explanations and illustrations, the book empowers children to understand the potential of their brains and to take an active role in their own cognitive development.
  • Your Fantastic, Elastic Brain serves as a reminder that the brain is malleable and capable of remarkable growth, encouraging children to embrace challenges and learning experiences with enthusiasm and resilience.

How fantastic it is to know that our brains can grow?! Your Fantastic, Elastic Brain: Stretch It, Shape It shares this wonderful news, encouraging kids to develop a growth mindset.

This book is ideal as a classroom staple. Readers are encouraged to exercise their brains, just like their bodies. The book is an entry point to anatomy and provides a wonderful introduction to the parts and functions of the brain.

Most importantly, it encourages children to view mistakes as a very good way for brains to grow.

19. What Do You Do With a Problem? by Kobi Yamada

what do you do with a problem | growth mindset for kids | growth mindset activities

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Takeaways:

  • What Do You Do With a Problem? teaches children to confront and learn from their problems, fostering resilience and a positive mindset.
  • The book conveys the message that problems can be opportunities for growth and learning, encouraging readers to approach challenges with courage and determination.
  • It emphasizes the importance of facing and addressing problems rather than avoiding or denying them, promoting a proactive and empowered approach to difficulties.
  • Through a relatable narrative, the book inspires children to see problems as catalysts for creativity and transformation, nurturing a sense of resilience and adaptability.
  • What Do You Do With a Problem? serves as a reminder that challenges can lead to unexpected possibilities, encouraging children to embrace problem-solving with optimism and perseverance.

What Do You Do With a Problem? is a helpful resource for dealing with the issue of rumination and overthinking.

Kobi Yamada’s work shares techniques for dealing with problems. Often, when kids (and even grownups) encounter problems, they worry so much about them that they fail to look closely at what can be done to solve the problems.

Instead, they ruminate, and the problems appear to loom over them, becoming bigger and bigger. The more upset they get about the problems, the bigger they become.

This book offers a unique way of looking at problems, and a whole new way of looking at ourselves as well.

20. The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds

the dot | growth mindset books for parents | growth mindset books read aloud

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Takeaways:

  • The Dot encourages children to embrace creativity and self-expression, inspiring them to explore their artistic potential and unique talents.
  • The book conveys the message that even a small mark can lead to great accomplishments, promoting a growth mindset and the idea that every effort has value.
  • It emphasizes the importance of confidence and perseverance in nurturing one's creativity, fostering a sense of self-belief and resilience in young readers.
  • Through the protagonist's journey, the book highlights the transformative power of encouragement and self-discovery, inspiring children to pursue their passions with determination.
  • The Dot serves as a reminder that creativity is boundless and that everyone has the capacity to make their mark, encouraging readers to embrace their individuality and to express themselves with confidence and enthusiasm.

In The Dot, we meet Vashti, a kid who can’t draw. She knows for sure that she’s not an artist.

To get her point across, she makes a dot on her paper. However, Vashti must sign her dot, and when she does, something interesting happens. The book affirms the use of play and experimentation to overcome failure. 

21. Ursa's Light by Deborah Marcero

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Takeaways:

  • The power of imagination. Ursa's Light highlights the importance of embracing creativity and imagination to overcome challenges and find joy in everyday life.
  • Friendship and connection. The book emphasizes the value of friendship and the deep connections that can be formed through shared experiences and understanding.
  • Embracing change. Through Ursa's journey, the book encourages readers to embrace change and find beauty in new beginnings.
  • Environmental awareness. Ursa's Light subtly raises awareness about environmental conservation and the impact of human actions on nature.
  • Finding one's purpose. The story inspires readers to explore their passions and talents, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and find their own light in the world.

The story of Ursa the bear encourages children to dream big and never give up. It is a story of perseverance and believing in yourself, no matter what.

In Ursa's Light, we meet Ursa, a bear who wants to fly. However, Ursa meets a lot of detractors as she works to make her dream a reality. Her initial attempts at flight have failed, but will her audition as a shooting star be the ticket to her dream?

22. The Girl Who Makes a Million Mistakes by Brenda Li

The Girl Who Makes a Million Mistakes by Brenda Li | Children's Books to Teach the Growth Mindset | Growth Mindset Books for Kids

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Takeaways:

  • Embracing imperfection. The Girl Who Makes a Million Mistakes emphasizes the importance of embracing imperfection and learning from mistakes as a crucial part of personal growth and development.
  • Resilience and determination. The book showcases the protagonist's resilience in the face of challenges, highlighting the power of determination and perseverance in overcoming obstacles.
  • Self-discovery and acceptance. Through the protagonist's journey, the book explores themes of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and the importance of staying true to oneself.
  • Empathy and kindness. The story promotes empathy and kindness, illustrating the positive impact of compassion and understanding in building meaningful relationships.
  • Pursuing one's dreams. The Girl Who Makes a Million Mistakes: A Growth Mindset Book for Kids to Boost Confidence, Self-Esteem and Resilience inspires readers to pursue their dreams, take risks, and embrace new opportunities, regardless of past setbacks.

23. What Should Darla Do? by Adir Levy and Ganit Levy

What Should Darla Do? by Adir Levy and Ganit Levy | Children's Books to Teach the Growth Mindset | Growth Mindset Books

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Takeaways:

  • The power of choices. What Should Darla Do? highlights the importance of making thoughtful choices and the potential impact those decisions can have on one's day and future.
  • Consequences of actions. The book explores the concept of cause and effect, demonstrating how Darla's choices lead to different outcomes and teaching children about responsibility.
  • Problem-solving skills. Through Darla's decision-making process, the book encourages young readers to develop problem-solving skills and think critically about various scenarios.
  • Building confidence. The interactive nature of the book allows children to engage with Darla's choices, promoting self-confidence and autonomy in decision-making.
  • Empowering children. What Should Darla Do? empowers children by showing them that they have the ability to shape their own experiences and outcomes through the choices they make.

24. My Magical Words by Becky Cummings

My Magical Words by Becky Cummings | Children's Books to Teach the Growth Mindset | Must Read Growth Mindset Books

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Takeaways:

  • My Magical Words emphasizes the power of positive affirmations and the impact of our words on our lives.
  • The book offers practical techniques for using affirmations to overcome challenges and manifest desired outcomes.
  • Becky Cummings shares personal anecdotes and real-life examples to illustrate the effectiveness of her approach.
  • Readers will learn how to reframe negative self-talk and cultivate a more empowering inner dialogue.
  • My Magical Words provides a roadmap for harnessing the transformative potential of language to create a more fulfilling life.

25. Ricky, the Rock That Couldn't Roll by Mr. Jay

Ricky, the Rock That Couldn't Roll by Mr. Jay | Children's Books to Teach the Growth Mindset | Best Growth Mindset Books

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Takeaways:

  • Ricky, the Rock That Couldn't Roll is a heartwarming children's book that teaches the value of teamwork and inclusion.
  • Through a delightful story, young readers learn about embracing differences and the importance of helping others.
  • The book's engaging narrative and vibrant illustrations make it an enjoyable and educational read for kids.
  • Ricky's journey inspires children to celebrate their unique abilities and appreciate the contributions of others.
  • Mr. Jay's book promotes empathy, friendship, and the idea that everyone has something valuable to offer.

Final Thoughts About Growth Mindset Books for Kids

Having a growth mindset is essential for success in life. Kids can benefit from learning about this mindset that can help them navigate life’s obstacles.

Books like the ones featured above are engaging visual tools for showing how the growth mindset is embodied and applied in different life situations. We hope you and your kids found a favorite title among those featured today.

And if you're looking for more resources on how to teach the growth mindset to your kids, be sure to check out these blog posts:

Finally, if you want to level up your parenting skills, then check out this resource that will show you how to get your kids to listen WITHOUT yelling, nagging, or losing control.

Never stop growing!

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