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How Children Succeed

summary ofHow Children SucceedBook by Paul Tough

14 min
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You’ll learn

  • How a child's environment affects their wellbeing
  • Skills to succeed inside and outside the classroom
  • Strategies to build your child's character
  • The significance of warmth and care for perseverance and focus

first KEY POINT

A child's potential goes beyond the classroom

The school system equips students with diverse tools for enhanced productivity, encompassing techniques, habits, and practical strategies. For example, they learn the value of private speech, so when they receive complex tasks, they go over each step, reminding themselves of what they need to do next. As a result, they learn how to communicate and explain their feelings and thoughts to others.Scientists have discovered that schools operate on a faulty theory of intelligence and have created a new concept regarding how children think and how they can learn fast. It emphasizes that intelligence can only be determined by GPA or college graduation rates. Meanwhile, children believe their cognitive skills help them deal with specific issues and unpredictable situations.

Measurable intelligence is evident in recognizing words and letters, IQ, calculating skills, and identifying patterns and colors.

Early detection of these skills gives parents an idea of what interests their child. The best thing parents can do for their children is to allow them to be independent, develop at their own pace, and become strong. Allowing them to navigate life independently fosters resilience and self-belief, which are crucial to their future success. This independence gives them the necessary skills to create healthy relationships and succeed in career endeavors.As children journey through school and life, addressing the many issues they encounter is vital. Stay tuned for more insights on effective ways to facilitate a child's learning journey.

second KEY POINT

Context always matters

The environment the child grows up in significantly impacts their development. An individual's emotional intelligence may be affected by their living conditions, relationship with their parents and peers, and how well their needs are met. A detrimental environment can leave lasting scars, while a positive one equips the child with skills for a healthy, emotionally intelligent adulthood. Understanding how family living standards and subtle communication dynamics impact this development is essential.Certain parenting principles can be divided into two neurological systems. These blueprints take shape during childhood and adolescence, and their influence cannot be understated, especially concerning teenagers.

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first KEY POINT

Children who are far behind in school often act out

second KEY POINT

Student success depends on specific psychological skills

third KEY POINT

Allowing a child to attempt a task builds character

fourth KEY POINT

Explore alternative solutions to unfamiliar situations

fifth KEY POINT

Nurture perseverance and focus in children

sixth KEY POINT

Explore new paths beyond your comfort zone

seventh KEY POINT

Conclusion

About the author

Paul Tough is an author who has written about child development, education, politics, and poverty. He is an editor and reporter at Harper’s Magazine and The New York Times.

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Frequently asked questions

What is How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character about?

How Children Succeed, authored by Paul Tough, explores the crucial attributes that contribute to children's success beyond traditional measures of intelligence. The book emphasizes qualities like grit, curiosity, and character, revealing how these traits can be nurtured to foster resilience and achievement in students.

What are the key takeaways from How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character?

Key takeaways include the idea that success is influenced more by character traits like perseverance and curiosity than by IQ alone. Tough illustrates this through research and anecdotes, suggesting that schools and parents can cultivate these attributes to better prepare children for future challenges.

Is How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character worth reading?

Yes, How Children Succeed is worth reading for parents, educators, and anyone interested in child development. Paul Tough presents compelling arguments backed by research that change the way we think about education and support for children, making it a valuable read.

How many pages is How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character and when was it published?

How Children Succeed spans approximately 256 pages and was published on September 4, 2012. This makes it a manageable read for those looking to quickly grasp its insights into fostering children's strengths.

How can I apply the lessons from How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character in daily life?

You can apply lessons from How Children Succeed by encouraging children to take on challenges, celebrate their efforts, and cultivate a growth mindset. Focus on developing perseverance and curiosity in daily routines, fostering an environment where learning from mistakes is a valuable part of growth.