Your Fantastic Elastic Brain: A Growth Mindset Book for Kids to Stretch and Shape Their Brains
What’s inside...
This book aims to teach children about the wonders of their brains, encouraging them to adopt a growth mindset through interactive illustrations and engaging explanations. They learn about the different parts of the brain, how it changes, grows and adapts, and how they can strengthen it. Dr. JoAnn Deak offers a fun and engaging introduction to the anatomy and functions of the brain, empowering young readers to stretch and grow their fantastic, elastic brains. With delightful illustrations and accessible information, this book is an excellent companion for children and adults alike to learn and grow in new ways.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What new things did you learn about your brain from reading this book?
How can you stretch and shape your brain every day?
Can you think of a time when you tried something hard and succeeded?
Why do you think it's important to keep learning new things?
What are some goals you have that could stretch your brain?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the book to their personal experiences, making the content more relevant and memorable.
Ask open-ended questions that allow for in-depth responses, fostering critical thinking and understanding.
Praise effort and persistence, reinforcing the book’s message about the value of continued learning and growth.
Discuss personal stories where you or family members faced challenges and overcame them with perseverance and learning.
Use everyday situations to point out real-life applications of a growth mindset.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Challenges
Explanation: The book inspires kids to see challenges as opportunities to grow their brain's capabilities.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this mindset at school by taking on subjects or projects that they find difficult, understanding that each effort contributes to their brain development.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: Through the narrative, children learn the importance of persisting through setbacks, enhancing their problem-solving skills and adaptability.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children stick with difficult tasks, whether it’s learning a new sport or solving a complex puzzle, promoting resilience.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The book encourages kids to ask questions and be curious about how things work, which is key in developing a love for learning.
Real-World Application: Curiosity can drive children to explore new hobbies or academic subjects, fostering a lifelong passion for knowledge.
Example Lesson: Understanding Brain Functionality
Explanation: Children are introduced to basic neurology and the functions of various brain parts.
Real-World Application: This knowledge empowers children to appreciate how their actions and thoughts are interconnected and can influence their decision-making and learning processes.
Example Lesson: Growth Mindset
Explanation: The book teaches that abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to approach tasks with a positive attitude, viewing challenges as stepping stones rather than obstacles.