Barbara Moore LMHC, CADC

09/08/2025

09/08/2025

Research shows that children who struggle in math… aren’t lacking intelligence.

Because here’s the truth:
Not every child’s brilliance fits neatly into equations. Some minds are wired for rhythm,
some for empathy, some for color and story, others for the quiet wisdom of noticing the world in detail.

Howard Gardner’s theory of Multiple Intelligences (1983) reminds us that math and language are only two of many ways the brain can shine. There is also musical intelligence, bodily-kinesthetic skill, interpersonal and intrapersonal awareness, naturalist sensitivity, and more.

🧠 According to Gardner, when we measure intelligence only by math scores or reading levels, we overlook entire realms of human ability. A child who struggles with fractions might be gifted in storytelling, art, or comforting a friend.

Why does this matter?

Because when we equate intelligence with grades alone, we risk raising children who doubt their worth. We risk discouraging the painter, the musician, the nurturer, the explorer; simply because they didn’t memorize times tables as quickly as their peers.

Meanwhile, science is whispering:
Intelligence is not a single path.
It’s a garden of possibilities.

Here’s what that looks like at home:

→ Celebrating a child’s creativity even if math worksheets feel hard.
→ Naming empathy and kindness as real forms of brilliance.
→ Encouraging music, movement, and hands-on exploration as learning.
→ Reminding your child that struggling in one subject doesn’t make them “less smart.”

These may not look like “academic success” in the narrow sense. But they are the work, the essential work of cultivating whole, capable, and uniquely gifted human beings.

The truth is, a child who isn’t strong in math can still be deeply intelligent. Their gifts might just grow in a different soil. And when we give those gifts space to flourish, we raise children who are confident in who they are, not crushed by who they are not.

So maybe the question isn’t,
“Why isn’t my child good at math?”
Maybe it’s,
“In what beautiful ways is my child already brilliant?”

Because intelligence isn’t the ability to do everything. It’s the courage to grow into the genius you already carry. 🤍

©️Mercy Lupo

References: Howard Gardner on Multiple Intelligences.

09/08/2025

Think about it. Sometimes, you don't believe the good things people tell you because, in the past, you've been hurt.

For example, if you grew up hearing you were "not good enough," it's tough to believe when someone tells you, "You matter" or "You are perfect just the way you are!"

Imagine a child constantly told by teachers or family that they're not smart. That child grows up and becomes an adult who doesn't trust their abilities, even when praised or successful. They resist believing the truth because of the wrong messages they received in the past.

Mental health is like that, too. If you were told you’re weak for feeling anxious or depressed, it’s hard to accept that it’s okay to seek help and that you’re strong for doing so.

The wrong answers from the past make it hard to accept the right answers now.

You can break the cycle.
Remind yourself that your past doesn't define your future.

You are capable, worthy, and deserving of love and support.
If you’re struggling, it’s okay to seek help.

09/08/2025

Here's an effective system to argue smarter, not louder.

09/07/2025

It can feel awful to see someone in pain and not know how to respond. Here are helpful and comforting words for someone with anxiety.

09/07/2025

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