The Secret Superpower Every Parent Has (and How to Use It for Your Kid’s Success)
Ever feel like parenting is a never-ending guessing game? One day, you’re solving snack disputes like a seasoned negotiator, and the next, you’re knee-deep in a school project that’s due tomorrow, even though it was assigned last month. But here’s the deal: you are the single most powerful influence on your child’s success.
It’s not about reading the classics, being taught the perfect curriculum, or school options. It’s about how you, as a parent, show up in the little, big, and messy middle moments of parenting.
The Research Is In: Parents Matter More Than We Think
A recent study found that 46% of teachers say students struggle in school because their families don’t prioritize academics. And 87% of educators believe kids’ test scores would improve significantly if parents were more engaged.
Translation? Parents don’t just help their kids succeed; they’re the engine that drives their motivation, confidence, and ability to thrive. The catch? Success isn’t just about grades; it’s about being curious, resilient, and confident learners for life.
Dr. Kathy talks a lot about this in her work: kids aren’t just smart in one way; they have multiple intelligences, 8 Great Smarts. When we, as parents, tap into kids’ unique designs, we unlock who God is calling them to be.
Grades Are Overrated (There, We Said It)
Sure, good grades can open doors. But what’s behind those doors? A kid who memorized facts just long enough to ace a test… or who understands, applies, and loves learning?
When we hyper-focus on grades, we can accidentally send the message that performance is more important than genuine understanding. But when we celebrate effort, curiosity, and progress, we teach our kids that learning isn’t about checking boxes; it’s about growth. And growth? That’s where real success happens.
How we approach this as parents will differ depending on how we naturally think and operate. If you love structured plans and routines, you might create a reading challenge with prizes for your child. If you’re more spontaneous, maybe learning happens in everyday life, turning grocery store trips into math lessons or bedtime chats into history deep dives.
Either way, how you engage matters as much as what you engage in.
Three Simple Ways to Help Your Child Succeed (No Flashcards Required)
Be Present (Even When You’re Busy)
Success isn’t built in a single big moment; it’s found in the thousands of small ones. Prioritize everyday conversations and talk about what they’re learning, what excites them, and what frustrates them. (Hint: The car ride home is prime time for this!)
Model What Matters
Kids absorb what we do more than what we say. The message gets lost if we’re glued to our phones, but tell them to love reading. Instead, model curiosity, explore new topics, ask questions, and learn alongside them.
Praise Effort Over Outcome
Instead of saying, “Wow, an A+! You’re so smart!” try, “I love how you stuck with it and worked hard on that!” This reinforces that effort, not perfection, leads to success.
How to Connect with Your Kids Based on Their 8 Great Smarts
Word Smart: Read stories together, have deep conversations, encourage journaling, and let them teach you what they’ve learned.
Logic Smart: Play strategy games, solve puzzles, discuss why things work the way they do, and encourage them to question and analyze their world.
Picture Smart: Let them draw, doodle, or visually map out their thoughts; use colors and imagery to reinforce learning.
Music Smart: Use songs to memorize facts, play background music while studying, or let them create their learning raps (you might be surprised at their creativity!).
Body Smart: Get moving! Act out stories, make learning hands-on, or have them teach you with gestures and movement.
Nature Smart: Take learning outside, observe patterns in nature, and incorporate real-world applications into academic concepts.
People Smart: Encourage group discussions, social learning, and role-playing scenarios.
Self Smart: Give them space to reflect, journal their thoughts, and process learning quietly and introspectively.
Remember: You’re Doing Better Than You Think.
You don’t have to be a perfect parent to raise successful kids. You just have to be intentional. Your presence, your priorities, and your love for learning are shaping them—every single day.
So, next time you feel overwhelmed by the weight of parenting, take a deep breath and remember: You’ve got this. And your kids? They’ve got God, who gave them you. You’re a good gift to your kids; live into that.