by Pat Lamb (www.patlambchristianauthor.com)

Train up a child…

Some Children are “Word Smart”

       People who study such things say that we are born with seven intelligences.  Each of us is dominate in a few of the intelligences and weaker in others.  They are identified as:  verbal/linguistic, logical/mathematical, visual/spatial, musical/rhythmic, body/kinesthetic, interpersonal, and intrapersonal.  These are also known as: word smart, number smart, picture smart, music smart, body smart, people smart, and self smart.

         It is important that parents, teachers, or others working with children learn how to recognize the dominate interests of children, nurture those interests, and guide children toward careers that use those interests.

         When we observe the behavior of children, we see clues that help us recognize their dominate interests. Children who are word smart generally like to read and write and often express themselves well verbally.  They may be the children who have the most books read on the teacher’s chart.  They have the ability to think in words and express and appreciate complex meanings. People with this interest may also enjoy learning foreign languages. They can usually understand the different shades of meanings of words and develop a larger vocabulary than children who do not have this dominate interest.  As they get older, they will probably be the best note-takers in classes.  Some will like to keep diaries or journals.  They may like to write letters or send cards to others.  Some persons with this interest will come up with unique uses of words.  For instance, our second son once described our donkey’s “grass-stained toothy grin” when he wrote an essay.  He came up with unique nicknames and was humorous in his conversations because he was able to select and use descriptive words effectively.  

         We nurture this interest by providing good reading material and opportunities for writing.  These children need to be called upon to participate in drama presentations, debate, or public speaking. They may want to help with the school newspaper or yearbook.  Organizing a book club for the word smart children would be good.  It would also be good to ask the word smart teens to read to children.  In addition, they should be given opportunities to participate in discussions.  

         Word smart people are the people who become authors, poets, journalists, and effective public speakers. They become the television news people. Teachers, pastors or other religious leaders, proofreaders, librarians, speech pathologists, talk show hosts, or salespersons are other careers that suit this interest.  

         It is fascinating to be able to observe and identify the interests of children.  It is rewarding to be able to nurture those interests and guide children toward suitable careers.  

         Isn’t it nice that God made us with differing gifts, interests, and talents?  It makes the world a more interesting place and meets the differing needs of society.