Raising Your Child’s Intelligence

In today’s fast paced world, the importance of bringing up intelligent kids need not be overemphasized. While some may argue that intelligence is a gift of nature it could also be enhanced by nurture. We as parents, therefore, have a role to play in stimulating our children’s intelligence. Here are some tips to consider.

• Start early; this means even before the child is born. Live healthy and avoid alcohol and drugs. (See also our article on music and child development)
• Read to your child even though he will not understand what you are reading; it stimulates intelligence
• Selecting of the right toys is a very important step; look for age appropriate educational toys

·    Show kids how to use toys like LEGO; getting involved in the use of such toys stimulate them better than just dumping it on them, as they would not understand it

·      Select toys that require the use of the senses of touch, hearing and sight

·     Find time to play with your kids; there is no better stimulation than this, as kids most often like to imitate their parents

·    Speak to your child as if he is an adult; use words you normally use in daily conversations. They will make sense out of the circumstances, and where they don’t, they will ask you

·    Remember that exercise plays a big role in creating a good mind; let them exercise regularly

·    Don’t over push them; allow them to be kids. Don’t over scold when they get it wrong