Mind Set

In my quest to read as many professional books to help expand my knowledge, I was introduced to a book called Mind Set by Carol Dweck. Although I haven't had a chance to read the entire book (it is on my "to get" list), I did read a powerful article summarizing her points.

Basically, after years of research on what makes people successful, she maintains that there are two "mind sets". The first being a fixed mind and the second being a growth mind.

The fixed mind set represents those learners that always get it and the answers come easily without much struggle. The growth mind set learners are the ones that work hard at things...struggle a bit even...put forth effort. Carol Dweck found that the growth mind set learners are the ones that succeed...they savor the struggle and become stronger because of it. The fixed mind set group is not able to get past failure or struggle and might just give up.

I was so intrigued by this research as there is so much more (which is why it is on my "to get" list). The more I thought about it, the more connections I was making to my role as a reading consultant...a parent of 2 boys...a wife too!!!

How we praise our kids is something to think about...do we say...great job...you're so smart! Or do we say...wow...I bet you worked hard and put some effort into that (and maybe it wasn't so easy)? Do we provide work that is easy because it is easy to teach or do we differentiate to find areas where effort is needed?

I am really looking forward to exploring more "Mind Set"...and making sure I keep a growth mind set in all of my roles!! It is definitely worth the read!!!

Happy Reading!!!

Keep...

Keep reading
Keep learning
Keep questioning
Keep thinking
Keep challenging
Keep sharing
Keep going
Keep writing
Keep pushing on
Keep working
Keep connecting
Keep building
...for the kids sake!!!!

Rolling Up My Sleeves

Now that the MEAP is over and life has settled into more of a routine, I am ready to roll up my sleeves and work with kids. Lately, that has been the part that I have been craving. I miss working with kids and seeing light bulbs light up all over the place. I miss that great discussion that sends chills up my spine because they "get it".

As I build relationships with staff, students and parents, I look forward to the work. The work that supports students to make them more confident...the work that gives them wings to discover new ideas and have powerful conversations...the work that encourages them to go forth and do great things.

Whether I am taking small groups or "pushing" in to support students learning, this is the most meaningful work! I love it!

Happy Reading!