According to the multiple intelligences theory, there’s no single type of intelligence. It’s possible that if you’re weak in maths, you’re excellent at sports. It means that academic performance shouldn’t define anyone. If your child is not doing well in maths, excellence is possible in a different area. Therefore, you shouldn’t feel too concerned if you think your child isn’t intelligent under the traditional definition.
Instead of worrying that your child isn’t top of the class, you need to think about how you can hone your child’s strengths and support the areas they are strong in. It’s a common mistake for parents to push their children in a direction that doesn’t match the areas of interest since your child won’t be happy with it.
Stop comparing your child with others
Another thing to remember as a parent is that comparing your child with other kids isn’t productive. They will be under immense pressure to live up to your standards. Even if your child eventually reaches that goal, it won’t be out of genuine interest, but of fear. It’s also the reason why lots of adults pursue a job they’re not happy with. They worry that taking a different path could disappoint their parents.
Assist your child in any endeavour
If your child is enthusiastic about sports and tells you that enrolling in a sports clinic would help boost their skill, you need to find a way to make it happen. You’re lucky that your child already has a definite interest at that age. Some people take a long time to decide what they want or to pursue an area of interest. As a parent, you need to be supportive and loving.
Academic knowledge is still important
Just because you adhere to the notion that there are multiple intelligences doesn’t mean you should let your child slip in terms of academics. Your child still needs to learn the essentials like language, arithmetic and many other things. If you think your child isn’t up to the level of other children their age, you can assist through tutorial classes. The ages of 4-11 are key to the overall development of your child. Within the UK, many children will undertake 11 plus exams when they reach year 6.
You can hire someone to provide extra courses and review difficult lessons at home. Another option is to utilise practice papers. There are various resources online for free practice papers, you can use practice papers to help reinforce ideas they learned in the classroom, track the current skill level and ensure they are ready for their exams.
Track your child’s progress
Regardless of your child’s interest, it’s crucial that you track their progress. You want to make sure that your child doesn’t stay at the same level. You also have to keep open communication with your child to determine changing interests and challenges faced at school or in other settings.
Don’t forget to celebrate milestones. Your child will feel good when you show that you’re proud. Of course, you need to show support not only during accomplishments but even in failures. You’re the only person your child can rely on to understand and still be there.
