Let's talk about something that sounds productive but can actually backfire: tracking a child's progress. We're not saying we shouldn't pay attention to whether kids are learning and growing. Of course we should. But somewhere along the way, progress tracking became this whole production. Charts on the wall. Apps that send daily reminders. Sticker systems that require a PhD to understand. And here's what happens: the tracking becomes more stressful than the actual goal. A chi

If you've spent any time in parenting circles or school meetings lately, you've heard about growth mindset. It's the idea that abilities can be developed through effort and learning, as opposed to being fixed traits you're born with. Sounds great, right? And it is. Except here's where it gets tricky: somewhere along the way, growth mindset became a script. Add "yet" to the end of sentences. Praise effort over results. Tell kids their brains are like muscles. But if you're fin