Seven ways for young children to be smart
Early childhood professionals have always looked at the whole picture
when considering children's intelligence. Psychologist Howard Gardner's
Multiple Intelligence Theory reinforces the fact that there are
many different ways for children to be smart. Instead of asking,
"How smart is this child?," a better question may be, "How is this
child smart?"
During the early years, children learn how to get along with others
and meet their own needs. These factors, along with many others,
contribute to children's intelligence—something far too complex
to be measured by a standardized test, or even by how quickly children
learn to speak or walk.
According to Multiple Intelligence Theory, each of us possesses
seven "intelligences" or ways to be smart. Some of us are more
adept at using our hands; others are good at making rhymes, or singing
songs. Each type of intelligence gives us something to offer to
the world. What makes us unique is the way each intelligence expresses
itself in our lives.
By recognizing multiple intelligences, we can help children enhance
their individual strengths. But don't be too quick to label a preschooler
as a future accountant, artist, or athlete without giving her a
chance to explore the world, work on her skills, and develop her
own abilities.
Understanding multiple intelligences means more than focusing on
individual characteristics. Imagine a grown person who could do
nothing but write poetry, or solve algebra problems. To do everyday
things like drive a car or follow a recipe, a person needs to be
smart in more ways than one.
Each of us is smart in all seven ways. Here's how to recognize
these multiple intelligences:
Word smart — Journalists, lawyers, and storytellers
often demonstrate what Gardner refers to as linguistic intelligence.
These people are best at using the written or spoken word to communicate.
Logic smart — People with a great deal of logical mathematical
intelligence are good at reasoning, and thinking in terms of cause
and effect. Scientists, accountants, and computer programmers generally
have this ability.
Picture smart — Otherwise known as spatial intelligence,
this involves thinking in pictures or images. Such individuals may
be able to follow directions best, or be able to visualize and draw
accurately.
Music smart — Musical intelligence is the ability to
keep time with music, sing in tune, and discern the difference between
different musical selections. These people can best perceive and
appreciate melodies.
Body smart — Individuals with bodily-kinesthetic intelligence
are best able to control their own movements. This involves not
only outdoor sports, but tasks like sewing and carpentry.
Person smart — Such persons have the ability to respond
to, understand, and work with other people. This intrapersonal intelligence
is the gift of being able to see from others' perspectives.
Self smart — These people tend to be contemplative
and can easily access their own feelings. Those with intrapersonal
intelligence may be introspective and enjoy meditating.
By exploring all of their intelligences, children become well rounded
individuals who are successful in many aspects of life. Parents
and early childhood professionals must recognize these different
strengths in children as they emerge. Some children may respond
more to words, others to music—the point is for adults to let
children express themselves. If children have the opportunity to
learn in the areas they prefer, and to improve in those areas that
are not as strong, they will grow to become intelligent in more
ways than one!
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