For instance, when looking at a book with a small child, you can ask questions like “What’s that animal called? What do you think it eats? Where do you think it lives?” You can show interest in an older child’s reading by asking things like “So what’s that book you’re reading about?” or “What did you like best about that story?” Ask them questions about books that you just read. For example, you might ask, “What did you learn from this book?” or “Would you make the same choices as the character in the story?”
Ask your child open-ended questions about their feelings, thoughts, opinions, and ideas. Follow up by asking them why they think that way. For example, you can ask them what their favorite activity is. Then ask, “Why is soccer your favorite thing to do?” Feel free to ask your child some non-judgmental questions about the decisions that they make. In fact, simply asking curious questions can help your child think through various options and decisions. [3] X Expert Source Kathy Slattengren, M. Ed. Parent Educator & Coach Expert Interview. 27 July 2021.
Experts recommend zero screen time for children under 2, and limiting time to 1 or 2 hours a day for children above age 2. Using electronic devices for school work is understandable. However, be wary of internet surfing, too much time on social media, gaming, etc. For their own safety, don’t let your child create a social media account unless they’re at least 13 years old. [5] X Expert Source Kathy Slattengren, M. Ed. Parent Educator & Coach Expert Interview. 27 July 2021. Time that could go to using devices could be better spent in more active ways, like exercising, talking with your child, and building creativity. These activities may have more long-term benefits for your child’s intellectual development and health. Have a serious talk with your child about how to be safe on the internet. Show them what to look out for and encourage them to talk to you when they notice something wrong. If your child asks a question about the world, say, “Let’s look that up. " Together, search for the answer on the internet. This will teach them how to use the internet to learn.
Keep plenty of crayons, markers, colored paper, and other craft supplies around at home. Just remember not to judge your child’s work. The point isn’t to turn them into Picasso, just to let them explore their creativity in a fun way. Ideally, give your kids this creative downtime without any digital devices nearby. Creativity needs plenty of space to grow. [7] X Expert Source Kathy Slattengren, M. Ed. Parent Educator & Coach Expert Interview. 27 July 2021.
Let your child play with blocks, puzzles, and other toys that require movement. Play sports and games outside. Take walks with your child. [9] X Expert Source Kathy Slattengren, M. Ed. Parent Educator & Coach Expert Interview. 27 July 2021. Let your child explore things like arts and crafts and model building.
If you sing or play an instrument, involve your child in the music making. Your child can also take lessons if they’re interested. Whether or not you are musical, try playing music for your child in your home, in the car, etc. Sing along with them! Sing nursery rhymes, silly songs, holiday songs, and other tunes, especially with young children. For extra fun, try dancing with your child!
Blocks, legos, and other building toys are a great way for your child to create something. Encourage your children to dress up and play pretend. Don’t be afraid to play with your children. Let them create the scenario, and act along with it.
Taking a walk and talking about plants and animals that you see. Going on a hike or stopping by your local park. [12] X Expert Source Kathy Slattengren, M. Ed. Parent Educator & Coach Expert Interview. 27 July 2021. Letting your child build a treehouse or other project outside. Pointing out unusual or interesting sights when you are outside. Creating a garden with your child.
Give your child maps, and talk about different regions of the world. Talk about world news and events. Encourage your child to read about different cultures, and tell them about ones that interest you. Take your child to any multicultural events or institutions in your area. Visit a museum to inspire your child’s interest in different cultures.
Don’t make learning a language a chore, however. Only try it if your child seems to enjoy it. Learning together with your child can make things even more fun! Your child doesn’t even have to become fluent to gain benefits.
Praise your child for their hard work rather than their intelligence, with statements like “Your effort really paid off on that math test,” instead of “You aced that test! What a genius!” Tell your child stories about when you worked hard for something, especially when you had to struggle to succeed. These techniques will teach your child to persevere and to react well to setbacks. That way, they can maximize the full potential of their intelligence. When your child is struggling or has failed at something, talk to them about it. Ask them what they would do differently, and encourage them to keep trying. If your child is struggling with a subject at school, help them learn it in a different way. For example, if your child isn’t good with math, ask them to help you measure food when you cook or to add up items around the house.
Try to give your child a nutritious breakfast with things like protein and whole grains, instead of sugary cereals and snacks. A nutritious breakfast could include things like oatmeal and fruit, whole-grain toast with peanut butter, yogurt and granola, or an omelette with fillings like spinach and cheese.
Be open to your child’s learning styles, which may be different than your own. Help them find activities and learning strategies that they enjoy and that help them reach their potential.
Hug, talk to, and play with your child! Positive interaction is key. Don’t assume that your child has failed just because they’re not conventionally intelligent. Give them help when they’re struggling, and encourage them to pursue their dreams.
