From the day they are born, kids just love to be read to. That is something that does not change even as they get older. This is why I always make a point to read to my students from the very first day of school. There’s something special about kicking off the school year with great picture books. Even my upper elementary students—who might pretend they’ve outgrown storytime—can’t resist the pull of a good read-aloud. 

I’ve found the beginning of the school year is always the perfect time to introduce a growth mindset in my classroom. The early days of the year are all about building community, setting expectations, and most importantly, helping kids believe that their brains are wired for growth. Picture books make these big ideas easy to understand and even easier to remember.

Here are a few of my favorite picture books that really help to spark those growth mindset conversations as the new school year gets underway.

The Magical Yet by Angela DiTerlizzi

This one is a must-read for the first month of school. It’s all about the idea that just because you can’t do something now doesn’t mean you won’t be able to—you just haven’t learned it yet. The book’s rhyming text and amazing illustrations make it so engaging, and the message is exactly what kids need to hear early in the year. I love referring back to the idea of their own “magical yet” all year long.

The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires

This story captures what it’s really like to struggle through a project and want to give up. The main character gets frustrated, makes mistakes, and feels discouraged—but she keeps going. It’s a great reminder to students (and honestly, to us too) that trial and error is part of the learning process.

Your Fantastic Elastic Brain by JoAnn Deak

If you want to sneak a little science into your growth mindset talks, this book is gold! I LOVE it! It explains how the brain works in a way kids can understand—and more importantly, how their brains grow stronger when they tackle challenges. It’s a great way to frame mistakes as stepping stones instead of setbacks. When I read this book to my kiddos, I always like to squeeze in a few basic lessons on the nervous system! On that note, if you’re looking for some ideas for teaching the human body systems, make sure to check out Engaging Ideas for Teaching Human Body Systems in Upper Elementary!

The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds

This book is a classic for a reason. It’s short, simple, and gets kids thinking about what it means to take the first step. I love using it to encourage students who are nervous to try something new—whether it’s speaking up in class, solving a tricky math problem, or writing their first paragraph of the year.

Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall

Jabari is ready to jump off the high dive… until he’s not. Then he is… until he’s not again. Sound familiar? This story mirrors the hesitation many kids feel when they face something new. It’s a great way to open up a conversation about bravery, self-talk, and the fact that it’s okay to be scared—what matters is trying anyway.

How I Use These Books in My Classroom

Over the years, I’ve tried different ways of incorporating growth mindset read-alouds into my classroom. During the first few weeks of school, I’ll read one of these books during our morning meeting or right after recess when kids are settling down. I usually will follow it up with a quick reflection—maybe a journal prompt, a turn-and-talk, or a sticky note exit ticket. Some years I’ve  even kept the books displayed on a special “Mindset Shelf” that students can revisit throughout the year! These books don’t lose their power after August. I circle back to them all year long.

The beginning of the year is the best time to start shaping how kids see themselves as learners. These books definitely aren’t just warm fuzzies—they’re tools. They will give your students language to talk about frustration, failure, and progress. They create shared reference points for the ups and downs of the school year. And most of all, they remind kids that they are still growing—and that’s a beautiful thing.

Save This Post for Later

If you have found any of the books or ideas that I shared helpful, be sure to save this post to one of your favorite Pinterest boards so that you will be able to easily refer to them when the time is right.  Wishing you the very best school year full of many fun times with your students.