Parents want their kids to go out into the world prepared, intelligent, and creative. But, all the information out there, on how to raise children, can be overwhelming. Where do you start? Here are some tips and suggestions for raising an intelligent child from babyhood on up…
Raising An Intelligent Child
Raise a Child Who Loves to Read, Aha Parenting
If you can instill a life-long love of reading early, your child will be able to learn so much and enjoy it. You can start with your baby by introducing fun baby books with textures and engaging pictures. Even a toddler can learn how to hold a book and understand that they are read left to right.
You can go on regular trips to the library for new books as your child grows. And set aside daily reading time. For older children, you can limit screen time and encourage books instead. Read More Ideas Here
Let Them Indulge Their Curiosity
A curious child is a child that is ready to learn. If your child shows interest in a particular topic or hobby, do what you can to support him. Younger children tend to be more curious, but you can encourage it in older children too.
Preschoolers very nearly glow with curiosity. But sometimes kids lose that as they get older, says Brenneman. Keep them excited by honing in on what interests them. If you ask questions about what they’re playing with or talking about—“Yes, even if it’s Pokémon, as it was with my son,” says Brenneman—you’ve initiated a give-and-take that will pay off in a smarter kid. ~Parenting.com
Try Integrating Multiple Languages
Growing up bilingual can improve cognitive abilities. It also teaches a greater understanding of the world and what makes different cultures what they are. Being bilingual opens up a child to opportunities not available to everyone. Language is a valuable life skill. Bilingual children will be able to connect with more people. It may also help children with advancing their native language as they learn to break down sounds.
Knowing two or more languages opens the doors to the information presented in all of them: professional info, literature in the original language, online resources, and cultural heritage. Bilinguals have the privilege of get their information from a wider variety of resources. ~Bilingual Kids Rock
Give Compliments and Encouragement
Children feed on their parent’s approval. Children need to hear that they are doing a great job from those that matter, those that are closest to them like family. Being complimented for doing something well related to learning, will likely give children, no matter age, a boost to do even better. Even better if you can be specific with your positive feedback. Remember that intelligence is not just about book smarts. You can encourage children when they are being kind, giving back to the word, or handling their emotions well too.
Build Confidence and Independence
Children need to have a belief in themselves and their abilities to use their skills and intelligence. Sometimes this requires letting your children struggle through some things until they figure it out on their own. If you are always rescuing them, they will feel that they always need help. Learn to let them make decisions. You can give them choices and let them know that they will have to reap the consequences of the choices they make. Check out: 9 Secrets Of Confident Kids
Also, see Time’s Post- How To Make Your Kids Smarter:10 Steps Backed By Science
7 Science Experiments For Kids With Kitchen Ingredients