Factors for Fostering Competence in our Family
There may have been a time when we thought IQ, and level of intelligence was fixed at birth. But through research, we have learned that while there are inheritance factors, our experiences influence child cognitive development as well. This means parenting and guidance also influences how well our child does in school. So what specifically will stimulate our child’s brain to learn? And what characteristics of an early home environment increases measured intelligence?
The good news is… it’s easier than you think. For many parents, home schooling your child at the end of the school year brought on a new challenge, along with a pressure to become super parents turned teachers. But as you read some of the factors for increased child intelligence, it might seem manageable.
**In most of the research I’ll report on, it will reflect an assessment called the Home Observation for Measurement of the Environment (HOME), and neurological studies. Trained observers interviewed caregivers with a yes or no checklist relating to intellectual stimulation and support observed in a child’s home. HOME scores have found to be significantly correlated with measures of cognitive development in children.
Parental responsiveness is a big factor; the way we pay attention, caress, and kiss children play a part in their development. In a longitudinal study (data is collected on the same person/people over time), positive correlations were found between parental responsiveness to their 6 month old and the children’s IQ, achievement test scores, and teacher-rated classroom behavior through 13.
The number of books, play items that encourage development of concepts, and parent involvement in children’s play was assessed. An analysis of 29,264 children with the HOME assessments, learning stimulation (as listed above) were positively associated with kindergarten achievement scores, language competence, motor and social development.
*Note:
The HOME items might be less culturally relevant in non-Western than in Western families.
Also, we cannot be sure that the reason for correlational findings is based on parental responsiveness or an enriched home environment as responsible for increased child intelligence. We are able to find that these factors are associated with high intelligence. Intelligent, well-educated parents may be more likely to provide a positive/stimulating home environment, and because they also pass their genes, there may be a genetic influence as well.
Research is able to identify 7 specific factors of the early home environment to enable cognitive and psychosocial development, in order to help prepare for school.
Encouragement of Environmental Exploration
Mentoring on basic cognitive and social skills
Celebrating your child’s developmental advances
Guidance in practicing skills, and building on them
Protection from inappropriate disapproval, teasing or punishment
Communicating well, and responsively
A balance between guidance, and limitations of behavior
These conditions are generally linked to many areas of brain functioning and cognitive development. Some of you may read this and feel like you already have these factors in your household. What it boils down to is - being present in guiding and playing with your child is one of the most important things you can do for them. Even with all the stress and expectations you may have for yourself or your spouse, remember to prioritize communication, guidance through things they might not understand, and play! Whatever play skills are important to your child will encourage skill development, and support when needed.
To learn more, please feel free to email me at smplytherapy@gmail.com. I look forward to hearing from you!