Finding our 'smart'

“I am stupid” this little girl said the other day and my ears pricked up as I asked her to repeat what I thought I heard. This time, her eyes lowered and a tear started to well-up but she said rather adamantly “I am stupid”. Gee did my heart stop in that moment as I felt the heaviness of her pain and her unsureness of how to navigate worth in her world. 

I turned immediately to her, now facing her at eye level to ask if that is really what she thought and she nodded. I took her hands and asked her to look me in the eyes as I told her what I saw – that she is amazing and courageous and went on to explain how there are all different types of ‘smart’ and that everyone has one, we simply have to keep exploring to find out our own. 

By the end of our conversation I had her repeating the affirmation ‘I AM AMAZING!’. Whether she thinks it yet or not, I hope to have made even the slightest shift for her inner-world. 

I was only an adult when I came across Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences – that they are eight plus different types of smart – in simple terms, smart through words, numbers/reasoning, pictures, body (coordination), music, people (inter-personal), self (intrapersonal) and nature. 

I recall that feeling of relief that there is no right or wrong, simply different; that reminder that we all have strengths and contributions to make this world a whole and I think this is such an important message to keep sending out to our young ones. 

Let’s not forget, that every little word of encouragement and praise can make the difference in someone’s world, because sometimes, in order for them to believe in themselves, they need to be introduced to the feeling first from a safe person or space. 

Encouragement and praise is just one way to help boost self-esteem in your child. Ray of Sunshine’s kids yoga and wellbeing classes can further help raise self-esteem through: 

• Providing a supportive and safe environment in which to express themselves
• Interactions with peers developing a sense of belonging and support
• Developing problem solving skills through activities and listening to stories
• Self-expression with creativity boosting confidence and self-awareness
• Building confidence through trying new poses and activities as well as sharing with a group
• Learning about unconditional love and acceptance through themes in the classes

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