Summary
How can we make our kids smarter? In this video, Dr. Richard Honaker starts with the obvious: have them read more, and get them away from video games and TV.
Dr. Honaker suggests games that teach something. Play Scrabble so children learn words, rather than games that only teach the game itself. Play Monopoly so they learn about money: how to buy, sell and negotiate. Play Jeopardy with them, ask them questions, and have them ask you questions.
Dr. Honaker points out that the early years, before kindergarten, are a window of opportunity.
A practical tip from Dr. Honaker: pick out good apps and websites ahead of time. After your child has watched cartoons for 30 minutes, you can send them to an app or website you’ve chosen that’s good for their mind, so it’s ready for them to go straight to.
Key takeaways
- Encourage reading, and limit video games and TV.
- Choose games that teach skills, such as Scrabble for words and Monopoly for money management.
- The years before kindergarten are an important window of opportunity.
- Pick good learning apps and websites in advance, and switch to them after limited cartoon time.
- Challenge your kids with questions, and have them ask you questions too.
Questions Dr. Honaker answers
How can I increase my child’s IQ?
Have them read more, cut back on video games and TV, play games that teach skills, and keep challenging them with questions.
Why do the early years matter?
Dr. Honaker says the years before kindergarten are a window of opportunity to help a child’s mind develop.
How can I use screen time well?
Choose educational apps and websites in advance, and send your child to them after a limited time with cartoons.
