SEVEN WAYS FOR YOUNG CHILDREN TO BE SMART!
Written by: The National Association for the Education
of Young Children |
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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 interpersonal 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!
Written
by: The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION for the EDUCATION of YOUNG CHILDREN
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