The Community Times Dispatch

Hello Readers! Over the past several weeks we have been discussing multiple intelligences, theorized by Howard Gardner, in his ground breaking book, Frames of Mind. This week the focus will be on the added intelligences: naturalist, spiritual, and existential intelligences. These intelligences are the most controversial and the most difficult to explain.

Naturalist intelligence involves the ability to understand and work effectively in the natural world. Strengths in naturalist intelligence are the ability to tell the difference among living things; sensitivity to other features of the natural world; and the ability to recognize patterns in nature. Farmers, gardeners, biologists, forest rangers, veterinarians and zoologists are examples of careers that use naturalist intelligence. Parents can assist children with naturalist intelligence by providing opportunities to work in nature; ideal gifts for this child would be garden tools, plants, or a pet.

Existential intelligence involves being able to see how things relate to the big picture; understanding cultural values; and being intuitive. Strengths in existential intelligence are demonstrated by a strong sense of connection with family and friends; an enjoyment of literature and customs from other cultures; and involvement in social and political causes. Philosophers, social activist, and scientists are examples of careers that use existential intelligence. Parents can assist children with existential intelligence by supporting them in social causes, by listening to their thoughts and ideas and by allowing them to explore their political beliefs; ideal gifts for this child would be trips to political campaigns or conventions, science kits, or journals to record their thoughts.

Spiritual intelligence is the most controversial because of its relevance to religion. Spiritual intelligence involves knowing God or some other higher power. My Christianity propels me to identify that higher power as God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. Strengths in spiritual intelligence are demonstrated by manifestations of the spiritual gifts; a close, intimate relationship with God; and intuition. Parents can assist children with spiritual intelligence by supporting them and encouraging their involvement with religion [in my case, Christianity]; ideal gifts for this child would be books on religion.

We have explored multiple intelligences over the past several weeks. My expectation is that you have recognized your children and your selves. Encourage and support your children’s intelligences because truly they are gifts from God.

If you have an idea for the next series or questions, email me at csaxjenks@comcast.net or call The Dispatch with your suggestions. See you next week.

References: Howard Gardner, Frames of Mind (1983); Howard Gardner, Intelligence Reframed (1999); Kristen Nicholson-Nelson, Multiple Intelligences (1998); Walter McKenzie, It’s Not How Smart You Are – It’s How You Are Smart (1999); Information gathered from www.accelerated-learning.net/multiple.htm#bod – via http://ced.ncsu.edu/2/adventure/st_augs/teachers/mintel; http://www.teachervision.fen.com

http://www.brighthub.com/education/special/articles/13999.aspx

© Cathleen Saxon Jenkins 10.19.2009

You can email me at csaxjenks@comcast.net