As parents, we all want our children to be intelligent and talented, right? But sometimes we wonder, 'What exactly is intelligence ? What can I do to increase my child's intelligence?' Some children are good at math, others are good at creating new things and reasoning. All of these are parts of intelligence. So today, let's talk about intelligence and how we can help our children reach their full potential.
Is intelligence something that is innate? Or something that comes from the environment? (Heredity vs Environment)
A question that many people often ask is, 'Is intelligence innate, that is, something that comes from genes, or is it something that comes from the environment in which we grow up?' Actually, both factors are equally important in this regard.
Think about it, some children may be born with a good ability to learn and understand. It's something that comes from genes. But that alone is not enough. If that child receives a good education, a good environment to learn, and encouragement, that innate intelligence will be further honed. We call that a 'virtuous cycle'. That means that something good leads to something even better.
Just like the best kind of seed. No matter how good the seed is, it won't grow well without good soil, water, and sunlight , right? That's how it is.
Likewise, the other side of this is also true. Even if a child is born with good intelligence, if they grow up in an environment where there is no opportunity to learn and no encouragement, that intelligence can become dull over time. So remember, a child's intelligence is determined not only by their genes, but also by the environment they receive.
Can you trust only these IQ numbers?
We often use intelligence tests, or IQ tests, to measure intelligence. But doctors and experts say that you shouldn't measure a child based solely on this IQ number. In fact, when thinking about a child's intelligence, there are many things that are more important than IQ scores.
The best indicator is the child's behavior.
- Does the child ask questions out of curiosity?
- Are you eager to learn new things?
- Do you play different roles while playing? (Role playing)
- Are you happy?
These characteristics mean that the child's brain is developing well. So don't worry too much about IQ scores. They are not the only measure of a child's abilities.
Brain Food
A baby's brain begins to develop in the womb. That's why a mother's nutritious diet during pregnancy is so important. After that, breastfeeding is the best gift a baby can give their brain. Once your baby starts eating solid foods, it's important to instill good eating habits in them. Young children may be a little reluctant to try new foods, but introduce them to different flavors gradually.
The table below gives you an idea of the nutrition a child needs per day.
| Food type | Daily requirement (small meals) |
|---|---|
| Fruits and vegetables | 5-6 veal |
| Whole grains | 5 veils |
| Meat, fish, chicken | 2-3 veal |
| Milk or dairy foods | 2-3 veal |
Remember, these are not the large amounts given to adults, but small portions suitable for children. Also, if you are giving your child a vitamin or mineral supplement, you should give it in the exact dosage recommended by your doctor .
Brain training exercises!
Like good food, brain-stimulating activities are essential for a child's intellectual development.
Simple things you can do
- Read a book together every night: Instill this habit in your child from an early age. This will help develop their vocabulary and imagination.
- Talk to your child: While doing chores around the house or going for a walk outside, talk to your child about what you see. Ask questions like, "Why is that happening?" and "What do you think will happen next?" to spark their curiosity.
- Encourage active learning: Don't leave your child alone in front of the TV or playing video games . These things can de-energize the brain. Instead, engage them in activities and share ideas.
- Allow children to play: Give children the freedom and time to play. Whether it's playing in the mud, dressing up dolls, or pretending to be a doctor or teacher with you, children learn from it all.
- Allow your child to choose: Just because your father loved playing cricket when he was a child, doesn't mean your son should also love it. Allow your child to choose what they like. It could be a musical instrument, drawing, or a sport. Encourage them to do that.
Some people believe that listening to classical music makes children smarter. There is no scientific basis for this yet. However, encouraging a child to play a musical instrument can help develop their attention span and discipline.
Use It or Lose It!
The brain is like a muscle in our body. If it is not exercised and used, it weakens. The stimulation given to a child in childhood can affect him for the rest of his life.
Scientists have found that the average intelligence of people is gradually increasing from generation to generation. This is due to the good nutrition we receive, good education, and a developing world.
So remember, more important than chasing an IQ number is teaching your child to love learning. Helping them find something they love to do and that gives them satisfaction. If you give that to your child, don't worry about IQ. They already have what they need to succeed in life.
Take-Home Message
- A child's intelligence is a combination of both the genes they are born with and the environment they grow up in. The environment a child receives is very important.
- Don't judge a child solely by IQ test scores. A child's curiosity, happiness, and desire to learn are more valuable.
- Nutritious food is essential for brain development. Take care of the nutrition of the mother and child from the beginning of pregnancy.
- Reading books, talking, and engaging in activities with your child are a thousand times more valuable than TV or video games.
- Allow the child to choose. Help them explore and develop their own interests.
- If you have any concerns or doubts about your child's intellectual development, talk to your family doctor about it.
- The most important thing is to teach your child to love learning and to find satisfaction in what they do.


💬 අදහස් (0)
තවමත් කිසිදු අදහසක් පළ කර නොමැත. ඔබේ අදහස පළමු වරට මෙහි එක් කරන්න.
ඔබේ අදහස එක් කරන්න