Beyond Intelligence: Secrets for Raising Happily Productive Kids

Emphasizing the latest research, two experienced educators explore the many different ways that children learn and how best to encourage their intelligence, creativity, and interests to help them thrive socially and academically. Matthews and Foster cite recent studies that indicate that intelligence is an ongoing and fluid attribute and that tools for measuring intelligence can help parents and teachers recognize kids' strengths and weaknesses; however, they stress that these are not necessarily predictors of success or happiness. The authors describe how parents and teachers can tailor educational methods to children's individual interests and learning styles, offering checklists and sections called "our secrets." They also advise readers on how to choose appropriate schools and handle bullying. Real life examples and personal anecdotes add interest to the academic discussion. Inspiring and informative quotes are interspersed throughout, and leading educators are referenced with valuable endnotes (though the book lacks a bibliography). A solid addition to parenting and professional collections.—Jackie Gropman, formerly at Chantilly Regional Library, VA