Having intelligent children is undoubtedly a dream for many parents. In fact, the characteristics of a smart child can be recognized even when they are still in the womb. There are indeed many factors that contribute to a baby being intelligent from an early age. These factors can also be observed through easily identifiable signs by parents.
In some cases, a child's brain development can even be faster than expected. The brain of a child develops rapidly during the early years, from birth until around the age of five.
The brain development during this period has long-lasting impacts on a child's learning abilities in school and life. That's why mothers need to pay more attention to the brain development of their little ones during this time.
What Does it Mean to Have a Smart or Genius Child?
A child can be considered a genius if they have a high level of intelligence, typically with an IQ above 140. The term "genius" can also be used to define a child who possesses exceptional talents or abilities. In other words, a genius child is someone with extraordinary intelligence who can create something of high value.
To identify someone's level of intelligence, a specialized test is usually required. This test involves various tasks designed to assess a child's reasoning abilities.
Clever children often display high levels of discipline and responsibility. They are also highly committed to what they do. Intelligent children also demonstrate their excellence in various fields.
The difference between a smart child and others lies in their higher capabilities. They also have a high imagination and are more active compared to children of the same age. They tend to be more sensitive to their environment. This is why highly intelligent children often exhibit rebellious behavior because they question rules, feel frustrated, or lack learning opportunities.
Characteristics of Intelligent and Gifted Children
Mothers need to know the characteristics of intelligent and gifted children in order to encourage their growth and development. Here are some characteristics that mothers should understand.
1. Excellent Memory
Children require good memory to learn and retain new information, both at school and at home. According to psychologist and author Tracy Packiam Alloway, working memory is not only related to learning (from kindergarten to college), but also to decision-making in everyday activities.
2. High Curiosity
Children with high intelligence always have a strong curiosity. They often ask detailed questions as an expression of their curiosity.
3. Quick and Accurate Thinking Ability
Intelligent children have the ability to think quickly and accurately. They are very practical in understanding and responding to things. As they grow older, they will also master a subject quickly.
4. Restlessness
Intelligent children usually cannot sit still or are very active. They enjoy challenging activities and are always seeking engagement rather than being passive. Unlike hyperactive children, intelligent children tend to be patient and focused on what they are doing. They are also active in arguing and sharing their experiences.
5. Good Verbal Skills
A characteristic of intelligent children at the age of 1 is having good verbal skills. They have a larger vocabulary compared to children of the same age.
6. Clear Expression of Emotions
Children tend to express their emotions through crying or laughter. However, children with high intelligence are able to express their emotions and feelings clearly with words. Additionally, they can find more ways to express themselves accurately.
7. Early Reading and Writing Abilities
Most intelligent children have the ability to read and write at an early age, even before entering formal schooling.
8. Good Focus Ability
Generally, children have a short attention span and are easily distracted by their surroundings. By the age of 1, they usually only focus on a specific task for about 10 to 15 minutes. However, highly intelligent children can maintain focus for a longer period of time.
9. Less Sleep Requirement
Intelligent children do not require as much sleep because they have higher energy levels compared to their peers. They are also less likely to be fussy even if their sleep duration is shorter than that of other children. This is because intelligent children have faster brain activity and need time for their brains to relax.
10. Accelerated Developmental Milestones
One of the most common characteristics of intelligent children is their accelerated developmental milestones. For example, they may be able to sit unassisted before reaching 4 months of age or have a good grasp of objects around them by the age of 6 months. This faster development compared to their peers can be observed as early as 1-2 years old and serves as an early indication of intelligence.
Tips for Developing Children's Intelligence
A child's intelligence can be stimulated even during pregnancy. Here are some things that mothers can do to develop their child's intelligence.
1. Engage in Bonding
Bonding is crucial for stimulating a child's intelligence. Mothers can engage their child in activities to introduce them to their surroundings or play together to stimulate their sensory and motor skills. Besides strengthening the emotional bond with the child, this approach also helps enhance their social and communication skills.
2. Engage in Regular Conversation with Your Child
Engaging in conversation with your child, especially from ages 0 to 2 years old, is crucial for stimulating their language abilities. Children who are frequently engaged in conversation tend to have higher IQ levels compared to those who are rarely spoken to.
3. Provide Appropriate Toys
As a mother, you can provide your little one with shape recognition toys like blocks or puzzles, pretend play sets that imitate different professions, or toys that involve sorting various objects. This approach will greatly help in developing your child's creativity and imagination.
4. Take Your Child on Nature Explorations
Taking your child to explore nature will enable them to learn many things about the environment at a faster pace.
Meeting Nutritional Needs to Enhance Children's Cognitive Abilities
One crucial aspect to consider when enhancing a child's intelligence is meeting their nutritional needs. To fulfill the nutritional requirements of your little one, mothers can provide a well-balanced diet.
