Multiple Intelligence Test for Children

Dr. Howard Gardner's Theory

Dr. Gardner developed the multiple intelligence (MI) theory. The theory basically states Multiple intelligence tests for children measure far more than an IQ test measures. MI encompasses eight areas:

1. Linguistic intelligence': Intelligence related to words and/or word meanings. A child with strengths in linguistic intelligence will remember words, meanings and be able to put words easily into orders and patterns.
2. Logical-mathematical intelligence: Intelligence related to numbers and/or reasoning. A child who is strong in logical-mathematical will easily be able to manipulate objects and create mathematical sequences.
3. Spatial intelligence: Intelligence related to images or pictures. Children with this skill will likely be good at art or design.
4. Bodily-Kinesthetic intelligence: Intelligence related to controlling body motions and manual dexterity type skills. Children with bodily-kinesthetic intelligence tend to be very skilled at sports. They might gravitate toward dancing or other forms of outward expression.
5. Musical intelligence: Intelligence related to musical skills. Children with this ability will excel in music and even create their own music.
6. Interpersonal intelligence: Intelligence in how to relate to people. Children with interpersonal intelligence will be able to read other people and their emotions and will also have a lot of charisma. These people tend to be leaders.
7. Intrapersonal intelligence: Intelligence that allows one to understand their inner world, what their dreams mean and so on. Novelists often have this type of intelligence and will put their personal emotions on the paper.
8. Naturalist intelligence: Intelligence that relates to sensitivity toward other living things, such as animals and plants. These kids will start to classify groups of plants, animals and objects from an early age.

Every individual has a unique combination of the above traits. While one person may be strong in musical intelligence and weak in naturalistic, another is strong in linguistic. MI tests will help determine the areas a child is strong in. This can then be used to focus on those subjects in school or to build up weak areas or potential problems.

Online Multiple Intelligence Test for Children

There are a wide variety of websites that offer MI tests for younger people. Not only do the tests indicate areas of strength and weakness, but many of these sites also offer lesson plan ideas and in-depth definitions of each learning type. Here are a few of the better tests:

• MI Test – Answer a series of simple questions. Parents of very young children may have to answer for them. The site also offers a youth version for ages 13 to 18.

• Family Education – Questions for parents to answer about their child's learning styles.

• Learning Disabilities MI Test – Test based on age range. Explains at the end what your score means and shows areas of weakness and strength.

• Dr. Leslie Owen Wilson – Page featuring MI tests and numerous lesson plans and lesson plan ideas for children. Perfect resource for parents and teachers. Also delves into help with learning disabilities (LD) and use of multiple intelligences to help LD children excel. This knowledge can also help you choose LD games that will engage your child.

• Multiple Intelligences Theory – Complete description of each of the intelligences as defined by Dr. Gardener.

• Surf Aquarium – Series of simple set of questions for older kids. Will help determine intelligence types quickly and easily.

• Multiple Intelligences – Interactive tests in a variety of languages, including English and Spanish. Fill in gender and age for test questions based on your child's age. Options include 11 years of age and under, 12 to 14, 15 to 16, 17 to 18 and 19 and over.

Although these tests will help you determine which areas are strengths for your child or students, the best indicator is often just observing your child. For example, a child with musical intelligence will often make up songs and learn music quickly. With this knowledge in hand, you can help your child in any areas which he might be struggling.