IQ (Intelligence Quotient) is a measure of an individual’s intelligence based on their performance in tests assessing comprehension, perceptual reasoning, memory, and processing speed. It is important to note that IQ tests compare a child’s mental age to their chronological age, which reflects how well they perform in understanding and reasoning tasks.
According to Very Well Mind, an IQ score below 70 is considered low, while a score above 140 indicates exceptionally high intelligence. In the past, a score below 70 was used as a primary indicator of intellectual disability.
However, IQ scores alone are not sufficient to diagnose intellectual disabilities. Specialists also consider factors such as age, adaptive skills, and overall functioning. Below are key insights and activities that can help support your child’s cognitive development.
Can a Child’s IQ Decrease?
IQ is measured through a variety of tests that evaluate:
1. Language Ability
IQ tests typically measure verbal skills and non-verbal abilities such as solving puzzles and reasoning tasks.
2. Information Storage
They assess how well a child can store and learn information, think abstractly, and process visual–spatial data.
3. Memory Training
Although IQ scores are considered relatively stable, especially in adulthood, children’s IQ can change as they grow.
Some studies show that training a child’s memory can help improve IQ scores during childhood and even later in life.
4. Brain Structure Changes
Adolescence is a particularly dynamic developmental stage. Evidence suggests that teens may experience increases or decreases in IQ due to changes occurring in the brain during this period.
One study found that verbal and non-verbal IQ scores in teenagers were closely related to developmental shifts in brain structure.
While IQ tends to become more stable as a child grows older, some fluctuations over time are still possible.
Tips to Help Maintain and Enhance Your Child’s IQ
Although IQ is not a perfect or complete measure of intelligence, several activities and lifestyle habits can support and enhance your child’s cognitive abilities:
1. Regular Physical Exercise
Exercise increases the flow of oxygen and glucose to the brain, improving its structure and function.
Just 15–30 minutes of daily movement can boost activity in brain areas responsible for complex thinking and self-regulation.
2. Creative Activities and Games
Engage your child in creative play, reading, music, sports, and puzzles.
Encouraging independence, giving small responsibilities, and actively listening to your child all help develop cognitive flexibility, attention, and problem-solving skills.
Music and visual arts are also known to increase brain plasticity.
3. Healthy Nutrition
Some of the best brain-boosting foods include:
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Berries
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Walnuts
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Avocado
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Eggs
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Olive oil
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Coconut oil
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Dark chocolate
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Fish
Supplements like fish oil can also support brain function.
Avoid fast foods, processed foods, sodas, preservatives, and artificial colors.
4. Avoid Staying Up Late
Adequate sleep is essential for growth and cognitive development.
Just one hour of sleep deprivation can equal the loss of two years of cognitive maturity in a child.
Good sleep improves intelligence, academic performance, and overall health.
5. Reading With Your Child
Reading together—especially before bedtime—helps develop literacy and comprehension skills.
Young children first focus on pictures, and over time, they connect with words.
Research shows that reading with children enhances their long-term reading abilities and strengthens cognitive development.
6. Learning Music
Many children learn music at a young age, and studies show that musical training increases IQ.
Children who play instruments tend to show higher IQ scores compared to those who do not engage in musical activities.
Although the effect may be small, it appears consistently in different IQ subtests and academic achievement measures.
7. Providing a Supportive Environment
While genetics play a role in a child’s intelligence, a nurturing environment is equally important.
Consistent encouragement, believing in your child’s abilities, and praising their efforts help motivate them to engage in activities that build cognitive skills.
Establishing a stable routine enhances focus and helps your child organize their time effectively.
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