How to Foster Resilient Challenge-Takers? Research Findings on Children’s Free Will Beliefs, Intelligence Mindset, and Failure Mindset

In an increasingly complex world, the ability to confront new challenges can become increasingly valuable. How can we foster learners to become self-directed, confident, and resilient, so that they are willing to take on challenges and persist when facing setbacks? This chapter examines research that explore the role of children’s beliefs about what they can achieve—such as whether one is free to choose to accomplish hard or undesired tasks, whether intelligence is malleable, and whether one can learn and improve from mistakes and failure. Drawing from both international and local studies, this chapter highlights the influential role of adults in shaping children’s beliefs and behaviors related to achievement. Adults can cultivate a spirit of challenge-taking in children by providing opportunities for decision-making, praising effort instead of outcomes, and fostering a positive perspective on mistakes and failure. By doing so, children can develop the mindset and confidence needed to overcome the initial discomfort and setbacks associated with taking on challenges, thus establishing a robust foundation for long-term success and well-being.