While genetics, environment, and nutrition are widely recognized as factors influencing IQ, a surprising additional element has been identified by researchers at Harvard University: the month of birth can impact a child’s intelligence and development.
After a seven-year study of over 22,000 children, scientists found that those born between September and November scored 1-6 points higher on IQ tests and had superior height and weight compared to other months. This intriguing finding has sparked significant interest within the academic community, leading to further related research.
For instance, in American football, many exceptional players were born in September and October. In China, statistics from top universities such as Fudan, Zhejiang, Xiamen, and Nankai also reveal a higher proportion of outstanding students born during these months. Due to these notable data points, September, October, and November have been dubbed the “smart months.”
The months of September, October, and November are dubbed the “smart months” due to notable data.
Why do children born in the “smart months” have an advantage in intelligence and development?
Here are three credible explanations:
Starting school at an older age
Children born between September and November tend to be relatively older in their class, giving them an advantage in terms of focus, understanding, self-regulation, and social communication. This lays a solid foundation for cognitive development.
Better gross motor development
Children who reach important gross motor milestones (such as crawling and walking) in spring or summer benefit from warmer weather, which allows for more comfortable movement. Brain research indicates that well-developed gross motor skills positively support cognitive abilities.
Following the natural growth cycle
The first trimester of pregnancy (months 1-3) occurs in spring, a season with moderate weather and abundant nutrition, providing an ideal environment for the fetus. The third trimester (late summer – early autumn) also offers a rich variety of nutritious foods, promoting brain and physical development. The principle of “planting in spring and harvesting in autumn” plays a crucial role in optimizing a child’s potential.
These factors contribute to the unique advantage of children born during the “smart months.”
The mentioned factors contribute to the advantage of children born in the “smart months.”
Intelligence can be enhanced through various aspects of daily life, including sleep, exercise, nutrition, and environment.
Here are some key considerations:
Adequate sleep: Deep sleep helps the brain release growth hormones, improving attention, memory, and learning abilities.
Regular exercise: Research shows that physically active children have more gray matter in brain regions associated with cognition, memory, and imitation abilities.
Balanced diet: Foods rich in omega-3, vitamins, and minerals support cognitive function development. A protein and complex carbohydrate-rich breakfast also enhances learning efficiency.
Encourage learning: Exposing children to various fields, such as reading, music, and scientific experiments, stimulates the brain, promotes neural connections, and enhances cognitive abilities.
Develop logical thinking: Improving logical thinking through daily activities helps with understanding, attention, memory, and reasoning skills.
Additionally, parents should take advantage of the three critical brain development stages before the age of ten (language from ages 0-3, logical thinking from 4-6, and creativity from 7-10) to optimize their child’s intellectual potential.
3 Golden Signs Your Child is a Genius: How to Spot a High IQ Early On
If you’re curious about whether your child is a budding little genius, read on to uncover three tell-tale signs.
The 3 “Unusual” Sleep Behaviors in Children That Indicate High IQ and a Bright Future
Studies have shown that the speed at which children fall asleep is intimately linked to the development of their prefrontal cortex.
Spend 30 Minutes Daily on This, and Your Child Will Become Smarter and More Academically Successful
Some effective methods to enhance your child’s brain development, boost intelligence, and improve their learning journey.
“Unleashing Your Child’s Academic Potential: Why Age 7 Is the Magic Number”
“A child’s learning abilities are honed through a process of focused and curious exploration. This training stimulates and nurtures their innate curiosity, encouraging a lifelong love of learning.”
Nurturing Nightly Chats: Unlocking Lifelong Benefits with 30 Minutes of Daily Mother-Child Bonding
Parents spend quality time with their children, approximately 30 minutes before bedtime, to bond, create lasting memories, and strengthen their relationship.
