How do we raise a highly intelligent child, and how do we influence a child to strive for excellence?

#1 Don't put your child into school

Homeschool him instead.

Before we continue, we should qualify the term homeschooling. I'm not referring to virtual schools or public-schools-at-home, but to a state-free education with a challenging curriculum. 

I’m referring to the Smart Homeschooler way of homeschooling with real books you can hold in your hands, few to no textbooks and definitely no computers. Children who are taught learning from real books, in wholesome environments, with their curiosity nurtured, are going to stretch their minds further, and, therefore, develop their minds to a greater degree.

Hence, they’ll be more intelligent.

(The Smart Homeschooler way is much easier than homeschooling online, too.)

#2 Do not let your child use technology

There is no quicker way to raise a less intelligent child than by indulging him in hand-held devices or any other kind of electronics, including educational software and television programs. 

Allowing your child to watch Sesame Street or play video games is an absolute no, no!

#3 Find Great Role Models for Your Child

You want to find people who have excelled in their fields and let them be role models for your child. Your child will see what is possible by the example these people set and go on to follow in their footsteps - this is not an uncommon path to excellence in a skill or field.

#4 Guide Your Child to Discover His Interests

You have a better chance of raising a child to excel if you expose your child to many experiences and subjects and talented people during his elementary years. 

When he discovers the thing that ignites his heart; whether it be an academic subject, a fine art, or a sport, he’ll be driven by a passionate love to become excellent at what it is he loves.

Motivation is the deciding factor. When we love something enough, we do it for its own sake. The motivation is inherent in the thing we love. It’s out of this that greatness is born.

#5 Do not push your child too soon

People who excel tend to fall in love with their object of interest first, and later, when they are older—around the teenage years—they begin to train for excellence.

The desire for training from comes from the heart of the student, so we want to let it unfold in its own time and at its own pace. 

Lastly, what do we mean by genius? My understanding is that genius is the state of acquiring a level of mastery combined with originality. 

Genius is the sum total of many years of discipline and practice and hard work.

Genius is rooted in creativity; that's why getting the early years right is so vital to all that follows.

☞ Disclaimer: This is not a politically-correct blog.

Don’t miss our free download, Ten Books Every Well-Educated Child Should Read.

When you join the Smart Homeschooler Academy online course for parents, I guide you in homeschooling with the classics to raise intelligent children without computers. You can enroll using the link below and be confident knowing you can and will homeschool successfully.

For parents of children under age seven who would like to prepare their child for social and academic success, please begin with our online course, Raise Your Child Well to Thrive in Life and Excel in Learning.

Elizabeth Y. Hanson is an Educator, Homeschool Emerita, Writer, and a Love and Leadership Certified Parenting Coach with 20+ years of experience working in children’s education.

Utilizing her unusual skill set, Elizabeth has developed a comprehensive understanding of how to raise and educate a child. She devotes her time to helping parents get it right.

She is available for one-on-one consultations as needed.

“Elizabeth has given us counseling and guidance to help us succeed with our home school planning. When I feel overwhelmed, scared, or lose my confidence, she offers words of wisdom and support.”

— Sherry B., Pittsburg, PA