Children develop at different rates, and intelligence cannot be reduced to a single trick or parenting technique. Parents and caregivers can, however, create conditions that support learning, curiosity, language, problem-solving and emotional development.

Build a Safe and Responsive Relationship

Children benefit from safe, stable and nurturing relationships with caregivers. Listening, responding to questions and taking an interest in what a child is doing can create opportunities for learning throughout ordinary daily life.

Make Time for Play

Age-appropriate play helps children practice problem-solving, creativity, language, self-regulation and social skills. Not every activity needs to be an organized lesson. Free play and guided play both provide opportunities to explore ideas and learn from experience.

Read and Talk Together

Reading with children, discussing stories and talking about everyday experiences can build language and comprehension. Ask open questions and give children time to explain their ideas rather than supplying every answer immediately.

Let Children Solve Appropriate Problems

Small age-appropriate responsibilities can help children practice planning and decision-making. Support them when necessary, but allow room for manageable mistakes and attempts at different solutions.

Support Overall Health

Sleep, nutrition, physical activity, hearing, vision and general health can affect a child’s ability to participate and learn. Developmental concerns should be discussed with an appropriate healthcare professional rather than interpreted as evidence that a child is simply “smart” or “not smart.”

The goal is not to maximize a score. It is to provide a supportive environment in which a child can develop their individual abilities.