Are Children Smarter Than They Used To Be?

Today's moms and dads have access to much more information about infant and child development that did parents a generation ago. Consequently, there are many children who are products of exceptional parenting. These children have been intellectually stimulated from birth. They've been talked to, read to, and played with. Fortunate children like these have been provided with books, games, puzzles, computer learning, music, and art materials. By the time they enter kindergarten, they can differentiate shapes and colors and understand concepts such as alike and opposite; they know their letters and numbers. They've visited the zoo, the science center, the movies, and the grocery store. They've eaten in restaurants, perhaps both fast food and “white tablecloth” establishments. They may have been taken to dance and musical performances. They may have taken to dance and musical performances. Perhaps they've attended both amateur and professional sports events. They might have been active participants in church suppers or neighborhood picnics and festivals. All of these activities give these children things to talk about and learn from.
Some of these little ones have attended preschool or day care programs that focus on both learning and self-esteem. Their preschool experience may have included children with various disabilities, so they readily accept those who use sign language or wheel chairs. May pre-schoolers have also been exposed to an extended family, whether these people are real kinfolk or their parents' friends. Exposure to other people and groups has enriched these children's lives and prepared them for school.
Their health has been guarded, too. They've seen the pediatrician or clinic health care provider regularly, and since most schools districts require immunization, the majority of students are up-to-date on their shots. They eat healthful foods, get lots of exercise, and have regular bedtimes. All of these help learning.
Although enrichment opportunities are more readily available to middle-class children, lack of money doesn't have to mean lack of opportunity. It may be difficult, but it is certainly possible for lower income families to find these same advantage, and many do. One minority principal with experience in both inner city and suburban schools says it this way: “Sometimes you have to ask for what you need. Let's be honest. Money makes things easier, but there are ways for parents go get what they need for their children

Helping Gifted Children Soar
by Carol A. Strip, Ph.D with Gretchen Hirsch