MSN's "9 Ways" to Smart Kids

A brief summary, and commentary, of recent MSN article

Since I am having a lot of trouble with MSN and their links, I think I should give you a summary of the MSN article I recently editorialized in "Response to MSN Article".

Briefly, the article promised nine ways to get smarter children. Most of the nine ways, however, are not suggestions of genius, but rather simple good parenting. Here are the nine suggestions, and my comments.

1. Play an instrument - This is one I actually agree with. Research has proven that learning music stimulates important parts of the brain. That does not mean the child has to be a prodigy, but just learn basic music theory and how to play "Old MacDonald" on some instrument (the kazoo is an inexpensive choice).
2. Breastfeed - Well, by school age this is a moot point. We have all heard this one. If you can, do it. If not, things will be just fine.
3. Be Fit- General fitness is okay, but organized sports is better. Children tend to be cooped up in classrooms all day (PE? What is that?), and then shepherded around to multiple activities everyday. There is little time for outdoor play. I think it is eerie how few kids' voices can be heard in the average neighborhood an any given day. I do think organized sports can offer many things to kids; I do not think they replace regular outside play.
4. Play Video Games - Those that emphasize logic and strategy are best. Focus on "educational games" I admit it - I am a video game lover. The reason we have them in our house is me! There are some good games out there, and playing them can help develop skills in children. However, too much dependence on these quickly creates imbalances, like poor eating, less exercise, and so on (see suggestions #1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9)
5. Eat Healthy - Does this really make our kids smarter, or just less dumb? This is an important distinction. (See #4)
6. Nurture Curiosity - In other words, listen to your kids. Have conversations with them. Kids are curious, by nature. Unless their parents, and schools, regularly squash it out of them.
7. Read - If the average parent does not do this, at least for babies and preschoolers, then the MSN article was sorely needed. Research has proven over and over that reading to young children is vitally important. More important than video games (see #4).
8. Eat Breakfast - The fact that this is listed as a way to make your child smarter, instead of basic things a parent owes their child (I am pretty sure feeding them is way up there), is sad. Kids need to eat, period. I love donuts as much as the next gal, but we all know the healthier breakfast is, the better.
9. Play Mind Games - Play games like Soduku, chess, or any game that encourages strategic thinking, logic, critical thinking skills, or any other brain boosting skills. And yes, it means play against a human being, not a computer or video game. Human beings are completely unpredictable, and children learn valuable lessons like good sportsmanship. Playing with your child is a good thing, at least every now and then.