Can Perseverance and Grit Be Taught?

When we see our kids are giving it their all, let them know how proud we are. Letting our kids know that we value effort and hard work will encourage them to keep trying.

Two outstanding traits of swimmers are perseverance and grit. We hear those words tossed around the pool deck, but what exactly do they mean and is it possible to help our kids gain those traits?

Here are the definitions:

Perseverance: steadfastness in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.
Grit: courage and resolve; strength of character.

Why do some kids give up while others stick with it and finally get to the next level? In my opinion, a little success and learning new skills is rewarding in itself. There’s nothing like getting a best time or winning an event to keep kids in the game.