At Miles to Row, we believe every child shines in a unique way. The stories we share help families see that being smart can mean many different things. That idea is at the heart of All the Ways to Be Smart by Davina Bell, a joyful picture book that celebrates creativity, kindness, curiosity, and courage.
This story reminds readers that intelligence is not only about grades or test scores. It is also about imagination, empathy, and the wonderful ways children express themselves.
What Is the Theory of Multiple Intelligences?
In the 1980s, psychologist Howard Gardner introduced the Theory of Multiple Intelligences. He suggested that intelligence is not one single skill, but a combination of different strengths that work together.
Here are the eight intelligences Gardner described:
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Linguistic Intelligence – enjoying words, stories, and language
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Logical-Mathematical Intelligence – loving numbers, puzzles, and reasoning
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Visual-Spatial Intelligence – thinking in pictures and understanding design
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Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence – learning through movement and hands-on activities
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Musical Intelligence – understanding rhythm, tone, and sound
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Interpersonal Intelligence – connecting and communicating well with others
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Intrapersonal Intelligence – understanding yourself and your emotions
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Naturalistic Intelligence – noticing patterns in nature and caring about the environment
Gardner’s work reminds us that every child has a unique blend of abilities and that all forms of intelligence are important.
How All the Ways to Be Smart Connects to Gardner’s Theory
All the Ways to Be Smart perfectly captures Gardner’s idea that there are many ways to learn, grow, and shine. When Davina Bell writes, “Smart is not just being best at spelling bees, a tricky test,” she reminds children that there is no single path to being smart.
Each page reflects a different kind of intelligence:
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A child creating art shows visual-spatial intelligence
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A friend comforting another shows interpersonal intelligence
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A child dancing or singing shows musical and bodily-kinesthetic intelligence
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A child exploring the outdoors shows naturalistic intelligence
Through gentle rhymes and colorful illustrations, the book helps children see that their unique talents matter.
How Families Can Encourage Different Kinds of Smarts
Here are a few simple ways to use this idea at home:
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Talk about each kind of smart. Ask your child what makes them feel proud or capable.
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Notice strengths in daily life. Point out when your child shows creativity, problem-solving, or kindness.
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Celebrate every kind of intelligence. Create a “Ways I’m Smart” poster and let your child draw or write what makes them special.
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Keep reading stories that celebrate individuality. Books like All the Ways to Be Smart help build confidence and empathy.
Why This Matters
When children understand that there are many ways to be smart, they grow up with confidence and respect for others. They learn that everyone brings something valuable to the world.
At Miles to Row, we share books that celebrate difference, inclusion, and self-worth. All the Ways to Be Smart is one of those stories that reminds families that there are countless ways to shine and every one of them matters.