Stories to Tell
Stories are a great way to engage children on any age in Growth Mindset. Talking about the characters and what their mindset is at certain points in the story and how it changes.
All the stories below are a read aloud that you can watch with your children, wherever you may be or you could get yourself a hard copy from your local library, book store or website and snuggle up together to read.
Whatever you decide to do, enjoy!
Where you see this icon you can click and find free resources, each linked to the book you've listened to.
In this lovely story aimed at toddlers and EYFS Annabelle the Ant demonstrates her growth mindset as she faces a challenge whilst out for a walk in the sun. There are various resources available linked to this book the web links are below.
The colour plates from Annabelle are free here https://www.koninggiraf.nl/shop
The song linked to the story can be listened to at https://www.koninggiraf.nl/growth-mindset-liedjes
An English version of the book is available to order here: https://www.boekenbestellen.nl/boek/branch-on-the-road/9789082676938
In this story Liz shares about one boys pursuit of a dream in which he shows determination, patience and resilience. Come and join the journey of a young Michael Jordon.
Fantastic Elastic Brain
Liz uses elements of the book Fantastic Elastic Brain to explain the connection between learning something new, our brain and how our mindset impacts on how we learn.
No Excuses
In Gemma's Story Live session with questions, a funky rap and and activity to download after, listen to a story where the character doesn't let people's opinions, stop him from fulfilling his dream
Mirette on the High Wire
Here Gemma reads a story of resilience, perseverance and support with some activities for you to do as you watch!
Only One You:
A story about how we are all unique and how it's important to stay that way. It teaches about reflection, how to relax and appreciating the beauty around us.
Stuck!:
A story about determination.
The Most Magnificent Thing:
A story about working at an idea and not giving up even when you get frustrated.
What Do You Do With An Idea?:
A story about a brilliant idea and the child who helps bring it into the world.
Henry's Freedom Box
This is a true story about Henry Brown, a slave, who when separated from his family was determined to reach freedom. A true story of persistence.
Emmanuel's Dream
Emmanuel was born in Ghana with only one leg. Emanuel was determined and hopped two miles each way to attend school. After his mother died, he decided to honour her last words by proving “that being disabled does not mean being unable.”
What Do You Do With a Problem?
A lovey story which emphasises how problems are opportunities to learn - comparing a fixed mindset attitude to a growth mindset attitude.
She Persisted
A celebration of thirteen American women who helped shape their country through their tenacity, sometimes through speaking out, sometimes by staying seated, sometimes by captivating an audience. They all certainly persisted.
Liz reads this lovely picture story with a powerful message about a little boy who wondered whether he should take the chance or not, he decided to let it go because he didn't have the courage. Will he eventually embrace opportunity or let it pass him by?
Jabari Jumps
Gemma reads Jabari Jumps, a real story of growth where the character deals with stepping out of their comfort zone and trying something new.
Words & Your Heart
Gemma is here reading 'Words and your Heart' by Kate Jane Neal and finding out how you can be more kind, with some fab activities after.
Rosie Revere Engineer
Here Liz reads a story of how Rosie flits between her fixed and growth mindset. Will her fixed mindset hold her back in her dream to become a great engineer?
Dot:
A story about having the confidence to believe in yourself and to encourage others.
The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes:
A story about the importance of making mistakes and having fun in the process.
Brave Irene:
A story about motivation and perseverance.
How to Catch a Star?:
A story about a responding with awe and wonderment. Being creative and imagining.
A Chair for my mother
This is a gorgeous book about familial love and how much of our determination to accomplish a goal is motivated by family.
The Paperbag Princess
A princess loses everything even her prince. This does not deter her, with flexible thinking and humour she takes a risk and outwits the dragon.
Uncle Jed's Barbershop
Embracing challenges a story about an African-American barber who, despite significant setbacks, saves enough money to buy his own barbershop. From the story we learn about saving, savings goals, opportunity cost, and segregation.
Ruby's Wish
Ruby's Wish is an engaging portrait of a young girl who's full of ambition and the family who rewards her hard work and courage.
The Thing Lou Couldn't Do (watch from 2:28)
Lou has never climbed a tree before, and she's sure she can't do it. She's afraid of taking a risk and tries to make excuses. Finally, she tells herself she doesn't want to climb the tree. But is that true, or is this brave adventurer just too afraid to try?
