Why Small Wins Matter More

Written by Jenelle McClenahen

When we think about student success, it’s tempting to focus on the big leaps, higher test scores, grade-level benchmarks, or major behavior changes. But real growth rarely happens in giant steps. For most students, especially those with IEPs or receiving interventions, progress comes in small, steady wins that add up over time.

The Power of Small Wins

Small wins build confidence. When a student with dyslexia learns to decode one new word pattern, that’s progress. When a student in speech begins using a single new sound correctly in conversation, that’s progress. These small steps may not look dramatic on paper, but they are the building blocks of lasting success.

Why Teachers Need to Track Them

Teachers often feel discouraged if they can’t show dramatic improvements right away. But when small wins are documented, patterns of growth become visible. A student who increases focus from three minutes to five minutes may not seem “ready for a milestone”, yet that increase shows a skill being built. Recognizing those steps keeps both the teacher and student motivated.

A Personal Reflection

As a parent, I’ve seen how frustrating it is to wait for the “big jump.” My son’s progress often came in little bursts: a new sound here, a longer stretch of focus there. At first it felt slow, but over time those small wins became the proof that he was moving forward.

Rethinking Success

Growth isn’t about chasing dramatic leaps. It’s about celebrating the daily, measurable progress that leads to bigger breakthroughs. When schools start valuing small wins as much as big ones, every student’s growth feels seen and every teacher’s work feels meaningful.