How to Raise a Bright Child

Much of a child's learning ability depends on the genetic make up his parents have given him, but you can foster an appreciation for learning in your child. Below are some suggestions you can use to raise a bright child.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Books
• Music lessons
• Puzzles
• Blocks

1. Read, read, read. Begin reading to your child even before she can understand the words. She hears the flow of language and listens to the way words sound.
2. Visit the library when your child can choose books. This helps children begin to appreciate books and reading. Instill a love of reading by making the trips to the library a fun activity and by letting her see you read.
3. Enroll your child in music lessons. Studies show that students who study music are more likely to succeed in school. Encourage your child to practice at home as well.
4. Let your child play with learning toys such as puzzles and blocks. Developing creativity and imagination is just as important as book learning.
5. Take your child on field trips. Visit the zoo, museums and cultural festivals. Expose your child to the world around him.
6. Make sure that your child is in an appropriate level class at school. You want your child to be stimulated and challenged, not bored in the classroom. Have your child tested for gifted and talented programs at school if he has already mastered the skills being taught in the regular classroom.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful not to push your child. You want to encourage without pushing. You don't want your child in classes that are to difficult for her anymore than ones that are too easy.
• Don't compare your child's learning with others. It is not a competition.