The Importance of Discovering a Child's Endowment Early in Life

There is a saying in the Yoruba language of Nigeria that " What a child will become is easily discovered in the early stages of his or her life." This, no doubt, is true based on the activities they are attracted to and show a keen interest in at a tender age. However, some parents and guardians, out of ignorance, fail to discover the innate endowments of their children and wards early in life to help in nurturing and developing them.

What is an Endowment?

An endowment refers to a gift, talent, or ability inherent in a person from birth.

What Will it Take to Discover a Child's Endowments?

The answer is simply attentiveness—attentiveness to what the child says (even if it makes no sense) and does (even if it is outrageous). Every child has latent endowments seeking expression, and it will only take attentiveness on the part of parents, guardians, teachers, and leaders to discover them.

The Importance of Helping a Child Discover His or Her Endowments Early in Life

Helping a child discover his or her endowments is important for several reasons:

1. So that they don't exist without realizing they possess them: Someone said that the grave is the wealthiest part of the earth. Why? Because that is where you find dreams, talents, and visions that were never realized or harnessed for the benefit of humanity.
2. To assist the child in nurturing and developing them.
3. To help the child become certain of his or her purpose in life. Since our gifts are most often congruent with our purpose, realizing them early will dispel any ambiguity about our mission in life.
4. It will enable a child to become outstanding in his or her area of endowment. The Bible in Proverbs 18:16 says, "A man's gift maketh room for him and bringeth him before great men".
5. It prevents parents and society from compelling a child into becoming what he or she is not destined to be.
6. It helps to raise children who are confident and proud of who they are and who they will become.
7. It helps a child choose careers that are harmonious with his or her endowments.
8. It positions a child for a purposeful and goal-targeted future.
9. It can guide educators in tailoring their teaching methods to a child’s strengths and interests, thereby improving the learning process of the child.

What Are Some Endowments A Child Could Possess?

Children can possess a wide range of endowments or natural talents and abilities. These endowments can manifest in various areas, including:

• ability to sing and compose songs;
• ability to cook;
• ability to dance;
• ability to read and write;
• ability to motivate or inspire people through their speech;
• ability to play anything, e.g., games, musical instruments
• ability to run, swim, and jump;
• ability to sow, knit, weave, do haircuts, and plait;
• ability to nurse and nurture;
• ability to draw and paint;
• ability to lead;
• ability to fix or repair damaged items;
• ability to sell or market goods:
• creative ability;
• problem-solving ability, etc.

How to Help Children Nurture and Develop Their Endowments

Parents, guardians, and teachers can assist children in nurturing and developing their endowments by

1. making them know what gifts or talents they have. This can be achieved by showering profuse praise at every display of their gifts or talents.
2. creating an enabling environment to foster the skills discovered. For example, a child who is passionate about singing or playing musical instruments should, at a tender age, be enrolled in a music school.
3. explaining to them how they can use their talents for their benefit and that of others. Realizing the positive impact their talents could have on others will enable them to cherish and appreciate what they've got.
4. providing them with a sound formal and moral education. This will provide a platform for the improvement of their endowments and personalities.
5. encouraging them to embrace their uniqueness and never compare themselves with others.
6. assisting them to know God and His Word. This is very crucial, as God is the One who has given every child whatever endowment they possess and can help them use it profitably.

In conclusion, as parents, guardians, and teachers, we are saddled with the responsibility of ensuring that every child under our care lives to their full potential. This we can achieve by providing adequate support, guidance, and an enabling environment for them to grow and develop.