In 2025, Thailand continues its systematic efforts to improve children's cognitive (IQ) and emotional intelligence (EQ). While ambitious goals like "raising average IQ to 100" were discussed in the 2010s, today's focus has shifted to holistic development, including health, nutrition, education, and psychosocial support.
Real 2025 Data
According to the Institute for Population and Social Research (IPSR) and UNICEF, average scores in Thailand:
- IQ (ages 6–14): 99.3 (up from 98.6 in 2011);
- EQ (emotional intelligence): 48.7 out of 100;
- School achievement: 68% of students meet basic math and literacy levels (PISA 2022);
- Regional gap: Bangkok — 102.3 (IQ), Northeast (Isan) — 96.1.
While the country is approaching the international standard (IQ ≥ 100), the regional gap remains a major challenge.
National Strategy: From Day One
The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) and Ministry of Education jointly run the "1000 Days of Life" program, covering:
- Pregnancy & first two years: developmental screenings, nutrition, vaccinations;
- Children 2–5 years: access to kindergartens and early development centers;
- School age: integration of EQ into curricula (self-regulation, empathy, communication).
Child Development Centers: Network Expansion
By 2025, over 18,500 Child Development Centers (CDCs) operate nationwide, including:
- MoPH clinics — with screening and counseling;
- Community centers in villages — with development coaches;
- School-based hubs — with psychologists and teachers.
The goal is to reach 20,000 centers by 2026.
Key Initiatives in 2025
Core actions include:
- Early detection of delays: mandatory assessments at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months;
- Breastfeeding support: 98% of infants receive breast milk in the first 6 months (one of ASEAN’s best rates);
- Parenting programs: free courses, digital app Thai Parent Guide;
- EQ development: rollout of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) modules in schools;
- Digitalization: Smart Child Thailand platform with brain-training and EQ games.
International Cooperation
Thailand collaborates with:
- UNICEF: psychosocial health projects in Isan;
- World Bank: funding for early childhood programs;
- Japan & South Korea: exchange in early education best practices.
Outlook 2025–2030
Expected:
- Raise average IQ to 101 and EQ to 52 by 2030;
- Close the regional gap through rural investments;
- Introduce AI for personalized learning;
- Integrate health, education, and social policy into a unified family support system.
"We no longer just measure IQ," said Dr. Somkit Lekkhananon, Director of Maternal and Child Health, MoPH. "We're building a future where every child, regardless of origin, has a chance at full development."
Raising children in Thailand? My Thai Home helps you find schools, clinics, and housing tailored to family needs. A child's development starts not in school — but from day one.
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