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How Children Succeed

Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character
ksoles
Oct 05, 2012ksoles rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
After reading a few reviews of "How Children Succeed," I expected a how-to book for parents and educators including tips on building character. Instead, "New York Times Magazine" editor Paul Tough presents the argument that children's non-cognitive skills like persistence, conscientiousness and grit predict success more accurately than their cognitive ones. Tough interviewed economists, psychologists and neuroscientists, examined their recent research, and talked to students, teachers and principals before publishing this fascinating overview of a new approach to teaching struggling students. These students may lack cognitive training but Tough shows that policymakers intent on closing the achievement gap between affluent and poor children must go beyond classroom interventions and supplement the parenting resources of disadvantaged Americans. He reveals a stunning correlation between traumatic childhood events and negative adult outcomes, emphasizing the importance of close, nurturing relationships. Finally, Tough cites many examples of failing students who turned things around by acquiring character skills that substituted for the social safety net enjoyed by affluent students. Well-written and filled with fresh ideas, "How Children Succeed" makes for a thought-provoking read.