In The Sims 4, mental skills are a key part of your Sim’s development—especially for children. These skills influence how quickly they learn, what activities they enjoy, and how well they perform in school and later in life. But what exactly are considered “mental skills” in the game?
1. Mental Skill (Child Skill)
The core “Mental” skill is specific to child Sims and is one of the four child-exclusive skills (the others being Creativity, Social, and Motor). Children build this skill by doing activities like:
- Playing chess
- Using the science table
- Reading skill-building books
- Playing Arithmetic Attack on the computer
As a child levels up their Mental skill (max level is 10), they unlock special interactions and new abilities. For example, they can practice mental telepathy (with high Social skill), unlock new interactions with the science table, and gain faster progress in related adult skills later on.
2. Related Adult Mental Skills
Once a child ages up into a teen or young adult, the Mental skill transitions into more advanced adult skills. These include:
- Logic – Tied to activities like playing chess, using the telescope or microscope, and analyzing collectibles. Useful for careers like Scientist, Doctor, or Tech Guru.
- Programming – Built through computer use. Opens up freelance work, hacking, and video game modding.
- Rocket Science – Developed by building and upgrading rockets. Useful for space missions and the Scientist career.
- Video Gaming – Boosted by playing games on a computer or console. Can lead to Esports career paths.
- Research & Debate (from Discover University) – Helps Sims convince others, complete homework faster, and succeed academically.
3. Boosting Mental Skill Growth
- Traits: Sims with the Genius trait will naturally gain Mental-related skills faster.
- Lot Traits: Setting your home lot with traits like Science Lair or Convivial can help encourage skill-building.
- Parenting Influence: Parents with high Parenting skill can influence kids to focus more on Mental development.
Why Mental Skills Matter
Building mental skills in The Sims 4 not only improves your Sim’s academic performance but sets the stage for long-term success. A child who maxes out their Mental skill will have a head start in Logic and Programming as a teen or adult, making career advancement and aspirations much easier to achieve.
Whether you’re raising a little genius or planning your Sim’s rise in the tech world, focusing on mental skills early makes a big difference.
