Building a home library may boost IQ
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2015 13:12 PM

While research indicates that IQ is largely inherited, it can be improved through certain methods. In fact, children can boost their IQ simply by learning. As such, a person's intelligence is influenced by their genes and their environment. If you're looking for an easy way to help your children develop a higher IQ, you may not need to look farther than your bookshelves. According to a study published in the journal Research in Social Stratification and Mobility, having a lot of books in your home may help improve your kids' intelligence.

The benefits of a home library
Researchers analyzed data of more than 70,000 individuals in 27 nations. The countries differed in governance and wealth, but the results remained the same: Homes that have a collection of books can add up to three years of education to a child's life. The thought is that kids will be able to read from home, learning new information. The three years are independent from school and their parents' intellect. 

Additionally, the study revealed that children raised in a home that has more than 500 books are 36 percent more likely to graduate from high school and 19 percent more likely to graduate from college than their peers who grew up with few to no books. However, these results are dependent upon whether the parents read. If parents who are barely literate have no books at home, their children are at an even greater disadvantage.

The study highlights the fact that children learn from what their parents do, and if they read, the kids are likely to do the same.

Encouraging literacy
IQ scores are devised of many facets, including literacy, so it's no wonder reading at a young age can help boost intelligence. As the study indicated, helping your children succeed in school requires more than a home library. Of course, having a plethora of books for your kids to enjoy does encourage them to read.

In addition to making reading materials plentiful in your home, you can also model literacy. By reading at home in front of your kids - or even with them - you'll influence their decision to read on their own. Consider letting your kids pick out stories they'd like to read, then enjoy the books with them. Encourage them to read aloud, and help them sound out words. 

By encouraging literacy at home, you may help boost your kids' education.