Tip #51 from 365 Teacher Secrets for Parents (McKInley & Trombly) - Multiple INtelligences

 


Today's tip for parents from two talented teachers comes from 365 Teacher Secrets for Parents by Cindy McKinley Alder and Patti Trombly.


#51

The Multiple Intelligences

 

Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.

~John Wooden

 

The theory of Multiple Intelligences, created by Dr. Howard Gardner, is based on a belief that school systems focus on a very narrow range of intelligence. Dr. Gardner felt that the primary focus of the school system is concentrated essentially on verbal/linguistic and logical/mathematical skills. He acknowledges that these skills are vital but suggests that there are at least five other kinds of intelligence important to human development and that most people are able to develop all of these skills. Knowing what they are can help parents to understand that there are many different ways that kids can excel.

The seven intelligences, as described by Dr. Gardner, follow. We’ve also included some ways you can develop that intelligence further if you desire.

Verbal/Linguistic Intelligence: Involves reading, writing, speaking, and conversing. (This intelligence can be developed through reading books, playing word board games or card games, listening to recordings, using computer technology, and participating in conversations and discussions.)

Logical/Mathematical Intelligence: Involves number and computing skills, recognizing patterns and relationships, timelines and order, and the ability to solve different kinds of problems through logic. (This intelligence can be developed through classifying and sequencing activities, playing number and logic games, and solving various kinds of puzzles.)

Visual/Spatial Intelligence: Involves the visual perception of the environment, being able to create and manipulate mental images. (This intelligence can be developed by sharpening observation skills, solving mazes and other spatial tasks, and exercises in imagery and active imagination.)

Bodily/Kinesthetic Intelligence: Involves physical coordination and dexterity, using fine and gross motor skills and learning through physical activities. (Activities such as playing with blocks and construction materials, dancing, playing various active sports and games, participating in plays or make-believe, and using various kinds of manipulatives to solve problems can develop this intelligence.)

Musical Intelligence: Involves understanding and expressing yourself through music and rhythmic movements or dance, or composing, playing, or conducting music. (This intelligence can be developed by listening to a variety of music, playing rhythmic games and activities, and singing, dancing or playing various instruments.)

Interpersonal Intelligence: Involves understanding how to communicate with and comprehend other people as well as how to work cooperatively and collaboratively. (This intelligence can be developed through cooperative games, group projects and discussions, multicultural books and materials, and dramatic activities or role-playing.)

Intrapersonal Intelligence: Involves understanding your inner world of emotions and thoughts and growing in the ability to control them and work with them consciously. (This intelligence can be developed through participating in independent projects, reading illuminating books, journal writing, imaginative activities and games, and finding quiet places for reflection.)

            Can you see a few above that fit your child? Try ranking them for her. Which is she strongest in? Weakest? Try it for everyone in the family. It’s interesting to think about yourself in these ways. You and your child might decide that there is an area you or she wishes she were stronger in and can think of fun ways to develop it further.

Many teachers practice this theory and incorporate the different intelligences into their lesson plans. You can help at home as well by trying to incorporate them into the activities you do with your child. It’s easy. Build some puzzles together, kick a ball around with your child, sing and dance together, and encourage her to reflect daily in her journal for starters. Many of the activities in this book also focus on a variety of them. You probably do an assortment of these activities often not even realizing how beneficial they really are!  



     Cindy McKinley Alder                                            Patti Trombly

 

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