When we think about intelligence, we often think of someone like Albert Einstein — someone with great intellectual abilities. There are television programs that feature brilliant minds who understand complex subjects like mathematics and physics and possess incredible memories. I don’t think this is necessarily a negative thing, as far as it goes. But there are many ways to stand out, and often our school system does not pay as much attention to these other forms of intelligence.

Perhaps if we referred to these abilities as talents, my point would make more sense. We all agree that some children are gifted athletes, and their prowess is often publicized. These athletes deserve their praise — and even more so if it encourages them to apply their organizational skills to the classroom. I think parents should encourage their children to take advantage of all their abilities, and schools should do the same.

The arts are subjects to which schools often pay less attention. Art, music and theater are frequently the first programs to have their budgets cut. But, like sports, the arts can provide a safe space for children who blossom when they are encouraged to develop their creative intelligence.

But for me, the most important kinds of intelligence that parents can encourage are emotional and social intelligence. Children need to recognize that their needs don’t always come first and that they must learn specific behaviors to be part of a family and a community. Of course, this means their parents must also recognize the importance of manners and getting along with others. If children are going to mirror proper behavior, they must see proper behavior modeled. Teaching children to say “please” and “thank you,” helping others even when you don’t have to, offering compliments and treating servers respectfully are a parent’s first steps toward raising a child with emotional and social intelligence. And remember, praising your child for good behavior should not end when they are no longer toddlers. We all appreciate being recognized for what we do right.

Robert B. Golenbock, MD, is currently retired. He cared for children in the Danbury area for 43 years, including at the Center for Pediatric Medicine. CPM is located at 107 Newtown Rd., #1D, Danbury, CT 06810. For more information, call (203) 790-0822 or visit https://centerforpediatricmedct.com.