The problem with the word "smart" - Part II
(See Part I)
The words an adult uses with a child are incredibly powerful and can shape how a child views themselves and the world.
Research shows that when you show praise for being "smart", a child then fixates on performance, and avoids taking future taking risks where they could fail. No failure means no learning or growth.
On the other hand, when you show praise for their "effort", a child will work harder and persist longer.
Praise for "effort" and a child pursues mastering a topic. Praise for "smarts" and a child sees their intelligence as something that is innate and cannot change, no matter how hard they try.
Stop praising kids for being "smart."
