Awaken The Natural Genius In Your Kids

Is your child a genius? You'd better believe it! Most people think of geniuses as individuals in horn-rimmed glasses who score high on IQ tests. But the word "genius" actually means "to be born" and in ancient times everyone was considered to have a personal genius that represented a sort of inner wisdom or guardian angel. The real meaning of genius, then, involves awakening that wonderful capacity for curiosity, creativity, and learning ability that each child was born with. How do you do that? By staying in touch with your own sense of curiosity and aliveness.

Children look around them for cues as to how the world is supposed to be. If they see adults who suffer from psychosclerosis or "hardening of the mind", they'll likely lose touch with their inner genius and become like their elders. If, on the other hand, they're surrounded by people who are excited about learning, who exude enthusiasm and curiosity, and who try out new ways of doing things, then they'll remain active learners all their lives. Here are some pointers:

• When you're walking in nature with your child, ask questions about the things you see: why is the sky blue? what makes the leaves fall?

• When at home, let your child see you learning something new--fixing a machine, reading a new book, trying out a new physical exercise, playing a new record.

• And above all, share your enthusiasm. When your children see the sparkle in your eye, the delight in your voice, and the animated spirit you convey in your gestures and expressions, they're inspired to become--like you---the geniuses that they already are!

For more information, see my book, Awakening Your Child's Natural Genius.

| TNPC Home | ParenTalk | Articles about Toddlers | Comments for TNPC |