Based on research, 6% of all K-12 students in the U.S. are considered gifted. However, a child’s abilities are not limited to academics only. These kids are more creative, and sensitive, and possess high intellectual abilities and an intense focus as compared to other kids of the same age.
In the United States, gifted children are being overlooked in the educational system. Over 3.6 million gifted children are not being identified. It’s important to identify a gifted child so that their intellectual, social, and emotional needs can be met and not stifled.
Take this quick assessment to learn more about the characteristics to watch for to help you determine if your child may be gifted.
How To Deal With A Gifted Child
Gifted children are different from their peers. Recognizing their unique needs will deal with them. You can:
- Validate their abilities by providing positive reinforcement.
- Encourage their curiosity and indulge in inquiry-based projects to help them develop deeper interests.
- Provide them with adapted instructions that meet their learning needs.
- Try to create a supportive and nurturing environment.
- Encourage the development of critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and analytical reasoning.
- Advocate for their educational opportunities that meet the unique needs of the child.
Understanding Different Types Of Giftedness
There are different domains of giftedness in which your child may exhibit abilities.
| Type of Giftedness | Description |
|---|---|
| Intellectual Giftedness | Children with advanced cognitive abilities, high IQ, exceptional memory, problem-solving skills, and abstract thinking. They excel in academic subjects and enjoy challenging puzzles and competitions. |
| Creative Giftedness | Children with exceptional creativity, originality, and imaginative thinking. They excel in artistic expression, writing, music composition, or innovative problem-solving. |
| Artistic Giftedness | Children with exceptional talent or potential in visual arts, performing arts, or other creative endeavors. They excel in drawing, painting, sculpting, acting, dancing, or playing musical instruments. |
| Leadership Giftedness | Children with exceptional leadership qualities, such as charisma, communication skills, decision-making abilities, and the ability to inspire and motivate others. |
| Psychomotor Giftedness | Children with exceptional physical coordination, agility, or athletic prowess. They excel in sports, dance, gymnastics, or other physical activities that require precise motor skills and coordination. |
| Social and Emotional Giftedness | Children with exceptional sensitivity, empathy, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal skills. They excel in understanding human emotions, forming meaningful relationships, and advocating for social justice. |
Different Challenges Faced By Gifted Children
The challenges faced by gifted kids stem from their remarkable abilities. These challenges may vary based on the child’s environment, developmental stage, and individual characteristics. Some common challenges that you need to know about are:
1. Asynchronous Development
Asynchronous Development is when the child’s physical, emotional, and intellectual development does not align with their chronological age. This leads to frustration, feeling isolated, and difficulty in communicating with peers who do not share the same interests.
2. Struggle With Underachievement
Children may struggle with underachievement because of a lack of challenges or disengagement from traditional classroom instruction. This may lead to academic underperformance.
3. Social Isolation
These kids may feel misunderstood because of their unique way of thinking. The difficulty of finding like-minded peers may lead to social isolation.
4. Existential Concerns
Gifted children grapple with existential questions such as thinking about the meaning of life or death and their place in the world at a young age. This may lead to existential depression.
FAQs
Question: What Happens To Gifted Children When They Grow Up?
Gifted children often grow up to excel professionally in careers matching their interests and abilities.
Question: Are children With ADHD Gifted?
Yes, children with ADHD can be gifted.
Question: What IQ Is Considered Gifted For A Child?
An IQ score of 130 or above is considered gifted for a child. However, giftedness may vary based on the type of assessment used.
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