Praise your child explicitly for how capable they are of learning rather than telling them how smart they are.

The quote by Carol S. Dweck emphasizes the importance of fostering a growth mindset in children. By stating, "Praise your child explicitly for how capable they are of learning rather than telling them how smart they are," Dweck highlights that encouraging effort and learning ability is more beneficial than offering praise based solely on inherent intelligence. This approach teaches children that success comes from persistence, practice, and curiosity rather than fixed traits.

The meaning of this quote centers on how feedback shapes a child’s motivation and resilience. Praising a child for being smart can lead to a fixed mindset, where they may avoid challenges to protect their perceived intelligence. In contrast, recognizing their capability to learn encourages them to embrace difficulties, persist through setbacks, and value the process of learning, ultimately cultivating confidence and adaptability.

In terms of origin, this quote comes from Carol S. Dweck, an American psychologist known for her research on motivation, personality, and the growth mindset. Dweck’s work has demonstrated that emphasizing learning processes over innate talent leads to greater achievement and resilience in children and adults alike. Her studies have influenced educational practices and parenting strategies worldwide.

Ultimately, the quote underscores that nurturing a child’s capacity to learn is more impactful than praising innate intelligence. Dweck encourages parents and educators to focus on effort, curiosity, and perseverance, fostering lifelong learning and a mindset oriented toward growth rather than fixed ability. It is a guide for raising resilient, motivated, and self-directed learners.