As we have discussed before, this year at St John’s we have been embarking on a way of teaching maths called ‘Challenging Maths’.

This type of teaching requires the students to figure out a problem by enquiring and trialling different strategies. The teacher asks questions to guide the student’s learning.

To be successful students requires a growth mindset.

What is a growth mindset?

Students can be paralysed by not feeling ‘smart’. Children need to be encouraged to try and reassured that the brain is a muscle that can develop and learn. There are 2 beliefs:

How can I help my child to develop a growth mindset?

* Praise perseverance and effort, try not to attribute success to being “smart”
* Model a ‘glass half full’ at home
* Communicate that change is part of life
* Help your child to find their strengths

We hope this information gives you some ideas that you may be able to use in the holidays. We wish you a safe & happy holiday and hope it allows you quality time with your child.

Kylie Billett & Helen Libro
Acting Assistant Principals