A.  That study's results reported a difference in I.Q. of three points between the eldest child and the closest sibling. Although that is a slight difference, these researchers considered it significant and stated that they discovered that the difference was due to family dynamics (nurture), not to biological factors (nature).  What the experts say may be the reason for this I.Q. difference is that the firstborn child begins life having the parents' undivided attention. So, even when that attention is later shared with other children, the amount of adult interaction is cumulatively always more for the firstborn because of the parents' earliest attention combined with ongoing attention.

     The theory is that over time this parental attention produces in the child an enriched vocabulary and reasoning ability, the primary targets of I.Q. testing. To really make use of this knowledge, parents, we need to realize that our role as "educator" in our children's lives is essential! Our direct influence on their developing language skills, critical thinking, and their ongoing mental development is fundamental. Reading with your child is one way to interact simply but importantly. Having ongoing conversations with your children - asking about their day, their opinions, their interests, enriches their vocabulary. By maintaining an interesting home environment with books, games, and activities that require thinking skills and provide mental stimulation, you are actively encouraging your child's intellectual growth. And remember this: a child who grows up in a home where there is an opportunity to learn, to play, to be loved, to develop close, caring relationships with family and friends has the most advantages to do well. The child, regardless of birth order, who is well-loved and carefully nurtured in a happy, stable home will have the best opportunity to grow up both smart and happy.

 

Send your questions to Ask the Doctor to jonealkirby@hearttohomeministry.org

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