- "Reward success publicly and immediately.
- Focus on specific contributions they can control such as, "You were really thinking outside the box with that design" or, "I love the way you and Kate worked together to solve that problem."
- Avoid statements such as, "You are really good at this!"
- They send the message that success comes naturally and doesn’t require effort or struggle.
- This is based on Carol Dweck’s work on fixed versus growth mindsets.
- This is especially useful for high achieving students who may be afraid of making mistakes "because who they are is so tied into their intelligence."
- When you identify a child’s weakness, make it clear that your comments relate to a particular task or performance, not to the child as a person. Emphasize that the brain is a "muscle" that can get stronger with time; skills can be improved with practice."
- More specifically according to SciGirls Seven tip: "Girls’ confidence and performance improves in response to specific, positive feedback on things they can control—such as effort, strategies, and behaviors."
- Convey the same level of respect for and confidence in the abilities of all your girls.
- Share the ideas, knowledge, and accomplishments of individuals with the group as a whole.
- Let a girl know you believe she can improve and succeed over time.
- All SciGirls Seven tips are "Girl Focused & Boy Friendly!"