Huskie Wellness - Oct. 10, 2024
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Supporting Your Teen’s Strengths: The Power of Multiple Intelligences
When we ask students to define what it means to be “intelligent” or “smart,” they often focus on textbooks, tests, and grades. However, the theory of multiple intelligences, developed by Harvard University professor Dr. Howard Gardner, highlights that intelligence is not one-dimensional. Instead, there are many ways to be “smart,” and each person has their own unique blend of strengths.
In our October Wellness Workshop, students will explore their unique strengths by completing a Multiple Intelligences Survey. Through this survey, students will identify if they are “people wise" with interpersonal intelligence, “body wise” with kinesthetic intelligence, “nature wise” with naturalistic intelligence, and much more. This process can be empowering for students, as they learn to recognize and utilize the diverse ways they can be “smart.”
As parents, you can support your teen’s journey of self-awareness by asking them to share their top three areas of intelligence. Celebrate their strengths and brainstorm how they can apply these skills in everyday life - whether it’s tackling school projects, participating in extracurricular activities, or navigating social situations. You can also share your own strengths and how they have benefitted you in different aspects of your life. Finally, encourage your teen to choose one area of intelligence to develop further by setting small, achievable goals.
By nurturing both their natural talents and areas for growth, you’ll help equip your teen with the skills they need to succeed - now and in the future.
Focus on Prevention
October is Youth Substance Use Prevention Month - a time when schools, families, and communities recommit to preventing youth substance use and supporting youth in making healthy choices to achieve their dreams.
This month, OPRF is shattering the myth that “everyone uses” and celebrating that most teens choose to stay substance-free! According to research, over ¾ of teens (age 12-17) choose not to use alcohol, nicotine, marijuana, or other illicit drugs.
78% of teens have never used alcohol.
80% of teens have never used nicotine (including tobacco or vaping).
79% of teens have never used illicit drugs (including marijuana).
(Source: 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health)
Parents, you can get involved by spreading this message at home! If you’re unsure where to start, you’re not alone. The “Talk.They Hear You.” campaign and mobile app offers tips on turning everyday situations into opportunities to talk with your teen about alcohol and other drugs, including how to start these conversations and keep them going as they get older.
Together, we can empower teens with the knowledge and tools they need to make healthy choices and lead fulfilling lives. By supporting their well-being—whether it’s helping them manage stress, build healthy relationships, or stay substance-free—parents play a vital role in their teen’s success and ability to thrive.