Mindset Matters

by Bryan Smith, Lisa M. Griffin

Amelia takes up skateboarding with gusto and feverishly builds a swing set for her kid brother. But at the first sign of trouble - tumbling off her skateboard and whacking her thumb with a hammer - she's done. Her confidence shattered, Amelia frets she's a failure. But after a little self-reflection and some loving advice from dear-old Dad, Amelia learns she needs a "gonna get it done" mindset. Mindset Matters teaches children how to see problems and dilemmas as opportunities to learn and grow. Written for readers in grades K-5, this storybook includes tips to help parents and teachers foster a healthy "gonna get it done" mindset in every child.

Genres: Growth Mindset, Picture Books

31 pages, Paperback

Published August 20, 2017

About the author

Bryan began his career as an elementary school teacher before realizing he had a talent for helping children deal with difficult issues. He has since become a school counselor. He is married to a school counselor and they have two boys.

Librarian's note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Reviews

[Erin Buhr · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the positive nature of this book. When a little girl decides to quit because something is hard her dad introduces her to the idea of Down-in-the-Dumps mindset vs the Gonna-get-it-done mindset. The examples of attitude and how this plays out in a typical child's life are appropriate. They offer a good way for parents and educators to talk to kids about overcoming difficult tasks. I personally prefer books, even non-fiction books, that are less direct in sharing their message. I think a well crafted story with a direct message to parents and educators at the end is more effective in capturing the attention of children. That being said, this is a clearly written and nicely illustrated book about an important topic.

[Melissa Ganka-Collins · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was just OK. There are lots of other stories that illustrate Growth Mindset better. All of the points in the story are good ones, but it just doesn't read well. I don't see my students connecting with the story.

[Robin · Rating 2 out of 5]

So. Many. Words. Kudos to the kid who can sit through this one. Flat illustrations and an inappropriate use of the concept of "war paint". Skip this one and opt for a story that shows growth mindset instead of lecturing about it. Not recommended. Ages 7-9.