4 Ways to Handle Fixed Mindset Adults In Your Kids’ Lives

  • By Alexandra Eidens
  • 21 Feb

THIS ARTICLE INCLUDES A FREE PRINTABLE

We know how crucial a growth mindset is to well-being and we work hard to instill that thinking in our kids. Naturally, we want everyone else around them to do the same!

What about all those other adults that influence our children? The ones who don’t believe that abilities can change and grow, or who fear making mistakes? What about those who aren’t even aware of this groundbreaking idea?


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As we cultivate a growth mindset in our families, it’s helpful to recognize that not everyone will support (or understand) it. And that’s okay.

“Peace comes from realizing that this is your own journey.”

- Jen Harrison, Supporting Your Sensitive Child Founder

At the same time, partnering with key adults can make our teachings even more impactful. Here are 4 simple ways to tackle this potentially tricky situation, while strengthening your and your kids’ growth mindsets at the same time.

1. Start with Yourself

Discovered by researcher Dr. Carol Dweck, the theory of growth mindset has only been around a few decades. In a very real sense, this incredible concept is new to all of us.

Prior to Dweck’s bestseller Mindset: A New Psychology of Success in 2006, qualities like intelligence, talent and abilities were mainly considered unchangeable. Children were born “athletic” or good at math, and there was no way to develop those skills. These well-established ideas are still accepted by many.

Even for those of us familiar with (and practicing) growth mindset, it can still be a struggle at times. That’s because the fixed mindset is sneaky--commonly faced scenarios like dreading negative feedback from our boss or getting defensive about our mistakes reveal just how pervasive it can be.

Before you can address those other adults in your kid’s life, consider the following questions about yourself:

  • What are my fixed mindset “triggers”? (issues or scenarios that elicit fixed mindset thinking)
  • How do I currently monitor and overcome these triggers? Are there ways I could do it differently?
  • What mistake did I make that taught me something?
  • How can I create more learning experiences for myself?
Taking a moment to understand our own challenges with practicing a growth mindset (and it is a practice) is a necessary part of addressing anyone else’s

fixed mindset thinking.

Our Growth Mindset Printables Kit contains valuable growth mindset handouts and guides for parents and teachers. These are a great way to explore a variety of topics and a better understanding of the growth mindset and how to weave the concepts into your family life or classrooms.

2. Share the Concept

Discussing the growth mindset with teachers, coaches and other adults in your child’s life is essential.

“We know that consistency is key for children’s emotional and mental well-being and development.”

- Jen Harrison, Supporting Your Sensitive Child Founder

Before tackling this important step, take a moment to reflect on how you’d like to present a growth mindset. Taking a positive and non-judgmental approach will help create a partnership, ensuring your message is well-received.

Harrison suggests the following: