The Future of your child will not be shaped by mere wishes. Successful lives are built on skills and abilities. This piece will show you seven fundamental areas of intelligence you must intentionally look out for, and build into the awareness of your child if you desire him or her to perform exceptionally in life. Beyond good grades, these social skills and intellectual abilities most of the times determine who thrives and who merely survives.
Let us jump right into it.
1.
DIGITS OR NUMBERS INTELLIGENCE/SMARTNESS
In the simplest terms, this is the ability or capacity to grasp and apply numbers effectively. Your ward must be conversant with numbers. Life is a game of numbers; your child must know this quite early. There is no room for the fear of mathematics or math-related subjects.
*. Always check their progress in Math classes/subjects
*. Get professionals to help clarify difficult topics
*. Show them the importance of math and numbers by applying it daily during family time together through games, trivia or other activities in the home
*. Introduce basic knowledge of areas like Finance, Data Analysis, or Economics.
Even if numbers aren’t your natural strength, it’s important to grow in this area if you hope to make meaningful impact in the numbers intelligence of your child.
2.
COMMUNICATION SKILLS OR INTELLIGENCE
Verbal intelligence is the ability to use words powerfully—both in speaking and writing. Some children naturally express themselves clearly and persuasively, often impressing others with their storytelling, explanations, or questions.
As a parent, it’s important to notice and nurture this skill. Encourage your child to read widely, speak confidently, and write regularly. Help them find their voice early—through conversations, debates, storytelling, or even drama.
Children strong in this area can thrive in careers that involve communication, such as media, sales, teaching, leadership, or law. The ability to speak and write well isn’t just a talent—it’s a tool for influence and success. Prioritize it.
3.
MUSICAL SKILLS/INTELLIGENCE
It has already been proven that playing musical instruments improve intelligence. The gift of singing melodiously or mastery of any musical instrument in your child is a wonderful advantage you must maximize.
Musical intelligence is the natural ability to recognize, create, and enjoy rhythm, tone, and sound. Some children can easily pick up melodies, imitate beats, or harmonize with little effort—they feel music deeply.
As a parent, if you notice your child constantly humming, drumming, or reacting strongly to music, don’t dismiss it—develop it. Enroll them in music lessons, expose them to different instruments, and let them explore their sound.
Even global stars like Davido owe their success not just to talent but to training. Despite early vocal challenges, his decision to attend music school helped refine his gift and turn it into something extraordinary.
Musical intelligence, when nurtured, can become a powerful voice in the world. Give your child that stage.
4.
SOCIAL SKILLS/INTELLIGENCE
We will explain this skill in two distinct parts for clarity.
Interpersonal & Intrapersonal Intelligence — the Emotional Superpowers Every Child Needs
These two types of intelligence are some of the most valuable in life—and among the most rewarded in the world.
Interpersonal intelligence is the ability to understand, connect with, and work well with others. Children strong in this area can read emotions, resolve conflicts, influence people, and build strong relationships. They often make natural leaders, team players, and communicators.
Intrapersonal intelligence, on the other hand, is the deep awareness of one's own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Children with this gift know how to reflect, manage their emotions, and stay calm under pressure.
Parents should teach their children both: how to handle others with empathy, and how to master their own inner world. These are the hidden powers behind every great leader, counselor, coach, and influencer.
With these skills, your child won't just grow smart—they’ll grow wise.
5.
SUPERB THINKING SKILL/INTELLIGENCE
Abstract intelligence is the ability to understand and find meaning in things that aren’t obvious or concrete. It’s what allows a child to think beyond what they see—to imagine, analyze, and connect ideas in creative ways.
This is the kind of intelligence that shaped the minds of legendary thinkers and inventors. Isaac Newton saw more than just a falling apple—he saw the laws of gravity. Einstein imagined himself riding a beam of light and unlocked the theory of relativity. A simple vision of a snake biting its own tail helped scientists uncover the structure of benzene.
If your child enjoys puzzles, asks deep questions, or sees hidden patterns in everyday things, they may have strong abstract intelligence. Encourage them to explore science, philosophy, innovation, and problem-solving.
These thinkers may not always talk the most—but they often change the world the most. Help them thrive.
