At the end of kindergarten, my son was recognized as being potentially gifted, and his teacher had him tested. He did get into the program, and it has been such a positive environment for him. I think he spent a lot of time last school year feeling different. Now he feels understood by teachers and some of his peers (not to mention me, his mother!)
The biggest misconception I have found through all this is that "gifted" means "highest grades." There may be times this is the case, but not always. Giftedness refers to an overall intelligence and way of looking at the world. My son is interested in things the average first grader is not, and he perceives things in a fashion more typical of an older child. However, there are kids in his class that are better readers, and he doesn't always get the highest scores on spelling tests. His peers also tend to pass him up on physical activities such as soccer or bike riding. This has, in fact, always been so. He talked extremely early, but didn't walk until nearly 15 months.
The greatest thing is how my son can make me see a new perspective on something. I have long ago given up trying to think I can teach him everything, because often he is teaching me. I lost count of the number of times he has asked me a question to which I had to reply, "I don't know."
I think it is best with kids (gifted or otherwise) to let them lead the show as far as their interests. If they love dinosaurs, get them books from the library on the topic. If they love art, take them to a museum or enroll them in art classes. Their obsessions may be unusual or suprprising to you. My son's personal favorite topics, for example, are The Civil War and The Titanic. My temptation at first was to get him to branch out to more age-appropriate passions, but accepting what lit a spark in him was a better choice for everyone. You'll never regret paying attention to, and nurturing, the things your child holds dear to his or her heart.
Debbie Akers, a northeast Phoenix mom of two young sons, is a member of The Arizona Republic's Parent Advisory Panel.
Debbie Akers, a northeast Phoenix mom of three young sons, is a member of the Arizona Republic's Parent Advisory Panel.
Nicely put. I remember some
Nicely put. I remember some of the most gifted minds at school didn't necessarily get the highest grades.
I have a 9 year old son that
I have a 9 year old son that like Debbie's is very unique. His interests are much more intellectual than physical. He loves to read, learn, teach and talk. His interests are so much different than his rambunctious classmates. Does anyone know of a group that has been formed to get these types of kids together? If so can you e-mail me? We are in North Scottsdale. sarahrnspins@yahoo.com
Thanks and happy holidays.
Sarah
Well said!
Well said!