Some children are great at reading and writing. Other children are good in math. Still others are artistic, or good with their hands, or good with people.

Some children have a good sense of space and they may grow up to be sculptors or architects. Some kids seem to "think with their bodies." They may grow up to be dancers or athletes. Gardner says all these children are "gifted."

What is your role as a parent? You know your child better than anyone else. You know her strengths and weaknesses. You can motivate her to think of herself as a gifted child.

Find things your child does well. Give her a chance to be successful. If she enjoys art, make sure she has art supplies. If she is good in sports, get her onto an athletic team.

No child is equally strong in all the areas of intelligence. All children are better at some things than they are at others.

By helping your child develop her own intelligence to the fullest, you'll also help her develop a sense of herself. And that will help her grow into a strong, capable, and, yes, gifted adult.

Copyright © Parent Institute