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Every parent wants an inquisitive and intelligent child. Although genetics can determine how easy it is for a child to learn, parents play a huge role in creating curiosity and motivation. In order to this, a child's household needs to be a place where discussions are held and questions are asked. Parents need to be active in talking to their child about things that interest them. If the parents work on creating this atmosphere from the time the child is born, he or she will grow up knowing that education is an important and enjoyable thing.

The most valuable trait that is found in bright children is curiosity. Without curiosity, a child is blind to their ability to learn and lacks motivation. These are both necessary in order to succeed in school. Parents should harness the natural curiosity that appears in young children by trying to answer all the questions they ask. Many parents make the mistake of answering their child's questions, especially if they don't know the answer, with "You'll learn when you're older," or "Because that's just the way things are." Instead, tell the child that you are not sure about the answer and together, research the question until you find out. Answer all questions, even if the child is only seeking attention and appears bored when given the answer. This way the child will be taught to only ask relevant questions that they are truly interested in.

In many household's, a line forms between the children and adults on an intellectual level. Parents assume that their children are not interested in discussions about politics and philosophy, so they exclude them from these conversations. Instead, as the children grow they should be brought into these discussions. Their opinions should be valued by their parents, and if a child is unclear about something, an explanation should be given. This will teach the child to always value other people's opinions but to think on their own. The least that the child will get from these discussions is a sense of family and worth.

Probably most importantly, parents should show an interest in the child's schoolwork. A distinction should be made, however, between interest and pressure. Parents should never act disappointed in their child over a bad grade; instead, they should say things like, "As long as you tried your best," or "With a little more studying, I'm sure you will be able to pull through." In order to raise a bright child, parents need to make good associations with education. If this is done, the child will be a motivated learner for the rest of his or her life.

Learn more about this author, Sandra Dapper.
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