The human body is complex, not only in physical aspects but psychologically as well. Although measuring the physical aspects of the human body is easy. Human intelligence, on the other hand, is a psychological construct; it cannot be directly observed but is inferred from behavior, making its measurement complex. With the intention of understanding Human intelligence, one has to focus on the multiple intelligences.
What is Multiple Intelligence Theory?
Howard Gardner, an American cognitive psychologist and author at Harvard University, best known for his theory of multiple intelligences, proposed that intelligence is not a single ability but a collection of distinct types. He challenged the traditional view that intelligence is measured only by IQ or academic ability.
According to the traditional method, linguistic and logical-mathematical modalities are most valued in school and society. To broaden this notion of intelligence, Gardner introduced eight different types of intelligences consisting of: Linguistic, Logical/Mathematical, Spatial, Bodily-Kinesthetic, Musical, Interpersonal, Intrapersonal, and Naturalist.
This perspective helps educators and parents recognize that intelligence goes beyond math and language—it includes creativity, physical ability, empathy, and problem-solving.
Why Multiple Intelligence Matters in Early Years Learning?
The early years, from birth to the age of eight years, are a very crucial time for the foundation of lifelong health, learning, and well-being. A child’s 90% rapid brain development happens in this period. Hence, early learning during this stage shapes their confidence, resilience, and curiosity for life.
Howard Gardner Theory of Multiple Intelligence works entirely on the child’s brain development by providing a stimulating and creative environment and engaging them in innovative activities. By applying the Multiple Intelligence approach in preschool education, teachers can:
- Plan different learning styles and a variety of lessons about music, art, group discussions, hands-on tasks, and reflective writing, to engage different intelligences.
- Encourage self-expression & creativity that help in developing a greater sense of self-awareness & personal growth.
- Help boost self-esteem and confidence by providing multiple pathways for child learning styles.
- Provide holistic development instead of one-size-fits-all teaching.
By identifying their own unique mix of intelligences, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of their strengths and limitations, and develop a more well-rounded sense of self.
Different Types of Intelligences in Children
According to Howard Gardner theory, there are eight core intelligences:
1) Inter-personal Intelligence: The ability to interact with each other, create relationships, and see situations from different perspectives.
2) Intra-personal Intelligence: The ability to understand themselves and their emotions, goals & motivations.
3) Musical Intelligence: The ability to sense rhythm, sounds, tones & auditory skills
4) Linguistic Intelligence: The ability to use language, to express in the form of reciting, narrating stories, reading, and memorizing ideas & thoughts..
5) Visual Intelligence: The ability to visualise & mentally manipulate objects. It also strengthens directions & replicates visuals.
6) Logical intelligence: The ability to apply logical reasoning & to perform complex calculations.
7) Kinesthetic Intelligence: The ability of movement & doing activities, may it be gross bodily movement or fine bodily movement & eye-hand coordination.
8) Naturalistic Intelligence: The ability to connect to the natural surroundings, enhance observations & sensory skills.
Every child has a mix of these intelligences, but some may shine brighter than others. Hence, understanding these multiple intelligences can promote more inclusive and personalized approaches to education and learning that recognize and value the diverse strengths and abilities of all students.
How Golden Bells Implements Multiple Intelligence in Preschool Curriculum?
At Golden Bells Early Years, we are proud to be India’s first preschool based on the Multiple Intelligences framework. Every child is unique in their own way & it is very important to nurture them & interact with them to develop cognitive, language, emotional, and social skills fully; to grow up healthier, and to have higher self-esteem.
Our curriculum is carefully designed to nurture all eight intelligences through engaging activities and play-based learning.Here’s how we integrate MI into daily preschool life:
- Interactive infrastructure: The School provides the most interactive and modern techniques to help children grow in the most comfortable space, focusing on all 8 multiple intelligences.
- MI-based classrooms: The school offers Multiple Intelligence-based classrooms that reinforce intelligence in each child, which enables them to explore and eventually channelize the innate and acquired potential or strengths.
- Small class size: To develop and nurture in each child a love for lifelong learning and provide the most stable academic foundation, the school provides a small class size and a low student-to-teacher ratio delivered by trained and experienced Early Years Programme (EYP) facilitators.
- MI-based learning: MI-based set-ups like Mini Library, Pretend Play, Play House, Art Room, etc., provide ample exposure to children for their engagement in activity-based learning. Outdoor play on rough, uneven surfaces builds strength, balance, and coordination, while indoor setups like Play Gym, Ball Pool, and Wall Climbing boost bodily skills, social interaction, early literacy, and numeracy.
- Technology & Media: Use of modern technology in classrooms allows children to explore a wide variety of developmentally appropriate interactive media experiences that are well designed and enhance virtual and visual exposure.
- Stage Presentation: To boost self-confidence and enhance interpersonal skills, children are regularly encouraged to participate in stage presentations and performances. They express themselves by engaging in storytelling, role plays, skits, and musical acts. Children develop effective communication skills, learn teamwork, and build a strong sense of self-assurance from an early age.
- Celebrations & Events: National, International, and Religious festivals are celebrated with great zeal to foster cultural awareness and respect for diversity. Annual events and Sports Days are also organized to showcase children’s talents, encourage teamwork, and promote physical well-being, making each celebration a joyful and enriching experience for all.
Benefits for Children in the Long Run
Multiple intelligences theory can help teachers see cognitive abilities in a way that better aligns with science than traditional intelligence tests. With this teacher scan plan for different child learning styles in order to cater to the specific needs of every child.
- Children develop confidence at an early age, which helps them in future participations.
- They become better problem-solvers and critical thinkers as they start taking an analytical approach towards their tasks.
- They learn to collaborate and communicate effectively, which makes it easier for them to express themselves and implement instructions.
- They stay motivated and eager to learn because lessons are enjoyable and meaningful
- They grow into well-rounded individuals with emotional & social strengths, and have self-awareness of their strengths and weaknesses.
This approach not only prepares children for school but also equips them with life skills that last far beyond the classroom.
Conclusion – Every Child is Unique, Every Child Can Shine
Intelligence is not a single general ability, but a collection of distinct, independent intelligences, and every child is uniquely intelligent. The beauty of the Multiple Intelligence theory is that it celebrates every child’s uniqueness.
The early years are more than preparation for school — they are preparation for life. By investing in quality preschool education and providing supportive experiences at home, parents and educators can nurture confident, capable, and compassionate individuals.
At Golden Bells Early Years, we believe no child should be limited by traditional definitions of intelligence. By recognizing and nurturing each intelligence, we help children become fearless learners, compassionate friends, and confident individuals.
When child learning is personalized, every child has the opportunity to shine.