Hudson Valley Parent

HVP September 2017

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14 Hudson Valley Parent n September 2017 By PAUL SCHWARTZ S uccess itself can be defined in multiple ways. Whenever we speak of a child's success, it's important to keep in mind that every child has a multiplicity of strengths and aptitudes but also weaknesses. Obviously, not all children are equal in all areas, so we'll use the term success as defined by a child reaching his or her potential, intellectually, artistically and interpersonally. Curious kids are successful kids Curiosity appears to be an important trait of all successful intellectuals. I don't think you can find an intellectual giant who is not a curious person. Thomas Edison, Leonardo da Vinci and Albert Einstein to name a few, are all curious characters. Curious children ask questions and search for answers in their minds. The mind is like a muscle, and the mental exercise caused by curiosity makes your child's mind stronger. When a child is curious about something, her mind expects and anticipates new ideas. Without curiosity, the ideas may pass right in front of them and never be recognized. A curious child will be able to see new worlds and possibilities which are normally not visible. It takes a curious mind to look beneath the surface and discover these new things. The life of a curious child is far from boring. There are always new things that attract their attention, there are always new 'toys' to play with. Instead of being bored, curious children have an adventurous life. Got to have grit In the New York Times best- seller, Grit, pioneering psychologist, Angela Duckworth, shows anyone striving to succeed, the secret to outstanding achievement is a special blend of passion and persistence she calls "grit," otherwise known as perseverance. Life is full of challenges and struggles. Perseverance is the drive that helps successful individuals get past hardships and reach their goals. It is the ability to access self- control and to work through challenges, in part, by accessing physical, mental and emotional abilities. Be curious. Have grit. Read more. Dr. Paul Schwartz gives parents the recipe to help kids live up to their potential (Continued on Page 16)

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