Educators are taught a theory of multiple intelligences which was developed by Dr. Howard Gardner in 1983.  Dr. Gardner proposes seven different intelligences to account for the way individuals tend to learn.  It might be helpful as a parent to become familiar with these multiple intelligences to help your child learn to the best of their ability.  Many times a child can be grouped into more than one category.

   1) Linguistic Intelligence:  This intelligence can also be known as "word smart."  This type of learner is strong in thinking in words.  They love reading, writing, telling stories, and playing word games.  To learn best, they need books, tapes, writing tools, paper, diaries, and discussion.

   2) Logical-Mathematical Intelligence:  This intelligence can also be known as "number smart."  This type of learner is strong in thinking by reasoning.  They love experimenting, questioning, and figuring things out.  To learn best, they need things to explore and ponder, science materials, calculators, hands-on materials, and trips to museums.

   3) Spatial Intelligence:  This intelligence can also be known as "picture smart."  This type of learner is strong in thinking with images and pictures.  They love designing, drawing, visualizing, and doodling.  To learn best, they need art supplies, LEGOS, videos, movies, slides, mazes, puzzles, illustrated books, trips to art museums.

   4) Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence:  This intelligence can also be known as "body smart."  This type of learner is strong in thinking through somatic sensations.  They love dancing, running, jumping, building, touching, and gesturing.  To learn best, they need drama, role-play, movement, things to build, sports and physical activities, tactile experiences, and hands-on learning.

   5) Musical Intelligence:  This intelligence can also be known as "music smart."  This type of learner is strong in thinking via rhythms and melodies.  They love singing, whistling, humming, tapping feet, and listening.  To learn best, they need sing-along time, trips to concerts, musical instruments, and listening to any music.

   6) Interpersonal Intelligence:  This intelligence can also be known as "people smart."  This type of learner is strong in thinking by bouncing ideas off other people.  They love leading, organizing, relating, manipulating, and mediating.  To learn best, they need group activities, social gatherings, community events, and clubs.

   7) Intrapersonal Intelligence:  This intelligence can also be known as "self smart."  This type of learner is strong in thinking deeply inside themselves.  They love setting goals, meditating, dreaming, and being quiet.  To learn best, they need time alone, self-paced projects, and choices.
 
When your child has an upcoming test to study for, try using techniques from the intelligence that they are strong.  For example, a Bodily-Kinesthetic learner could study their spelling words by using sign language.  A Spatial learner could paint their spelling words.  A Musical learner could make up a song spelling the words in the song.  The possibilities are endless.  Hopefully your child will see improvement in their learning and ENJOY the process of learning.