Several new studies show ways to improve scores on IQ tests
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2013 15:18 PM

Parents who are looking to improve their child's performance on IQ tests may want to pay attention to a couple of recent scientific announcements that point to effective measures kids can take to boost their intellectual abilities.

A new study conducted by the University of Texas at Dallas, which was recently published online in the journal Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, shows that aerobic exercise can improve memory and brain function, along with physical health. At the same time, three studies that were presented at the annual Society for Neuroscience meeting in San Diego indicate that playing a musical instrument can fundamentally reshape a young person's brain.

Physical activity for mental acuity
The University of Texas study was primarily targeted at older adults, but its findings add to previous research showing that physical activity is a key component of developing more efficient neurological processes.

"This research shows the tremendous benefit of aerobic exercise on a person's memory and demonstrates that aerobic exercise can reduce both the biological and cognitive consequences of aging," Sandra Bond Chapman, founder and chief director of the Center for BrainHealth, Dee Wyly Distinguished University Chair and lead author of the paper, said in a statement.

Subjects in the study were put through a rigorous set of tests, including MRI scans, that measured blood flow in the brain. Among the results was an indication that exercise improves neuronal activity in a part of the brain that is linked to cognitive activity.

Playing an instrument provides several benefits for kids
The studies presented at the conference in San Diego came to three major conclusions about the role learning a musical instrument can play in developing young brains. They are:

• Improvement in the ability to process information from multiple sources at the same time.
• If begun prior to the age of 7, a child's brain development is positively affected by learning to play a musical instrument.
• Connectivity between the parts of the brain that are associated with creativity and improvisation is greatly enhanced.

Not only is this important news for those looking to have success on IQ tests for kids, it could also lead the way into alternative therapies to help children who are suffering from brain injuries or learning disabilities.

"Music might provide an alternative access into a broken or dysfunctional system within the brain," Dr. Gottfried Schlaug, director of the Music and Neuroimaging Laboratory at Harvard Medical School, said during a Nov. 11 news conference. "Music has the unique ability to go through alternative channels and connect different sections of the brain."