Do you remember the scene in the Incredibles movie, where Dash is told, “Everyone is special, Dash,” and he replies sadly, “Which is another way of saying no one is. . .”?
Here’s where reality outshines Hollywood: Each of our kids—and us—is SMART! Our quest is to discover which blend of SMARTs they are, and what that looks like for their education.
They’re not only SMART, though, our kids also approach learning in various ways. Knowing something about this can solve lots of problems and overcome many obstacles in the path of learning.
This collection of articles on different kinds of SMART and other learning differences comes from decades of homeschooling, being mentored by international educators, and reading vast quantities of books on learning theories (including brain research).
Don’t be overwhelmed! Just choose one that looks interesting, and start there.
The Route to Your Brain
Different Kinds of Learners When it comes to learning, we all know that there are differences. Some seem to learn easily in school (straight “A” students), while others tend to fail. Some seem naturally “bookish,” while others prefer to be doing an activity. Some enjoy a quiet environment for study,…
The Eyes Have It
We started in the previous post on a short series about Learning Modalities: visual, auditory, and kinesthetic, which are three routes by which new information can be received by our brains. Though we may use any of these different routes, it is helpful to know that there will always be…
Did You Hear That?
Before we get started, remember that this information is to give us insight when our kids struggle to learn, AND to remind us that our kids (and spouse) may approach things quite differently than we do! In the previous 2 posts, we looked at the significant impact of three routes…
Move It or Lose It
In this final article on Learning Modalities—visual, auditory, and kinesthetic, it’s important to note that we can use any or all of these approaches. However, when things are difficult to learn, one particular approach will be easier for an individual. Discovering which one works best for each of your children…
Body Smart — Bodily/Kinesthetic Intelligence
Today’s blog is about those who are Body Smart—an intelligence that is seldom recognized unless you happen to be a highly-paid athlete. So, to get started, let me ask: Do you remember that student in class who was always drumming their hands on the desk, fidgeting in the chair, and
Number Smart — Math/Logical Intelligence
Do you thrill to the elegant precision of mathematical formulas? Do you love to do calculations in your head? Do you enjoy reconciling your bank account? If so, you are strong in the Math-Logical intelligence—you are Number Smart! Schools tend to recognize and reward just two ways of being smart—Word Smart and
Word Smart — Linguistic Intelligence
Do you LOVE words? Do you enjoy cuddling up in a comfy chair to “escape” with a book? Do you take delight in word games, like Scrabble and Taboo? Do you happily work crossword puzzles and word jumbles, or solve riddles and create-your-own-ending mysteries? Do you find it delightful to
People Smart — Interpersonal Intelligence
Are any of your kids “the life of the party”? They seem so comfortable interacting with others, so at home in conversations, so happy to be in the midst of the crowd. Do you ever wonder, “How do they do that??” or, maybe, “Why do they that??” It’s because they
Nature Smart — Naturalist Intelligence
Meet my dear friend, Paul Rushworth, a senior zoo keeper at Werribee Open Range Zoo, in Melbourne, Australia. In this pose with an African serval, Paul demonstrates the trusting relationship he has built over time with this lovely, wild cat. Why are some people incredibly good with animals? And
Music Smart — Musical Intelligence
Does music give you a bounce in your step, a smile on your face, and the zest to do your to-do list? Have you ever felt like you are dragging through the day. . .UNTIL you put on music? If so, the energizing effect of music is one great
Self Smart — Intrapersonal Intelligence
Today begins an eight-part series on how God has made each of us smart. Now, you might be thinking, “Oh, well, maybe YOU are smart, but I’m not. . .and I have the grades to prove it! Uh-huh. I understand! And I beg to differ. You are smart. And
Picture Smart — Spatial Intelligence
Do you have a doodler? Someone who is constantly drawing pictures when you think they’re taking notes? Maybe you’ve got a Lego-loving kid, who only seems interested in building the latest set of Lego structures. Perhaps you’ve got one who really comes to life when creating animals with Play Dough—or