Questions: Suppose you are a parent and want your children to do well in school. Which of the following is likely to work the best? Tell them that they were born with a lot of academic talent. Tell them that academic ability is something that they can cultivate and grow if they work hard. When they are young, give them money for every book they read. Tell them that intelligence is inherited and that there is a lot of it in your family. Submit

The answer is: Tell them that academic ability is something that they can cultivate and grow if they work hard.

This approach can lead to a fixed mindset, where children may believe that their abilities are static and unchangeable. Research by Carol Dweck on mindsets suggests that this can limit their willingness to take on challenges and persist through difficulties.

This approach promotes a growth mindset, which is supported by extensive research. A growth mindset encourages children to see effort and persistence as paths to improvement and success. This perspective helps them embrace challenges, learn from criticism, and develop resilience.

While this might initially motivate children to read, it can undermine intrinsic motivation. Over time, they may come to see reading as a chore rather than a pleasurable and rewarding activity in itself. Research in educational psychology suggests that intrinsic motivation is more sustainable and effective for long-term academic success.

Similar to Option 1, this can foster a fixed mindset. Children might believe that their success is predetermined by their genetic makeup, which can reduce their motivation to put in effort and overcome obstacles. This approach does not encourage the development of skills and perseverance.

In conclusion, fostering a growth mindset by emphasizing that academic ability can be developed through hard work is the most effective strategy for helping children succeed in school.