Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions relating to the Gifted Child

Q: Is there a definition of Gifted?

A: Yes. However, it depends on the different levels of government and school boardsor districts. Not every school uses the same definition. Go here for more details.

Q: How are Gifted Children Identified?

A: Generally through the use of IQ tests, such as the Weschler Intelligence Scale for Children and the Stanford-Binet and other forms of assessment like the Ottis-Lennon (OLSAT).

This is done by a psychologist or a trained person at the school level. It is often considered that children with an IQ over 130 are gifted.

Q: Who decides if my child should be tested?

A: Parents ultimately decide. However, the school may recommend it for your child. It is up to parents to get involved and make sure that their child's needs are being met.

Q: What are some characteristics of Giftedness?

A: Often parents recognize how bright their child is at an early age. Gifted children tend to read early, often before kindergarten. They have a good vocabulary, excellent memory and process information quickly.

Q: What is acceleration?

A: Simply put acceleration is skipping, either a whole grade or some subjects, depending on what is best for the child. Whole grade acceleration is a cost effective and good solution to keep the gifted child challenged.

Q: What are some challenges facing the Gifted Child?

A: Every child is different. Gifted children often develop at different rates intellectually, emotionally, and physically. Governments do not give the resources to gifted programs or schools to help met the needs of these children.

They are surrounded by myths which adds to their challenges.

Q: Should I homeschool my Gifted Child?

A: That decision is a personal one best determined by how well the child's needs are being met in school. Also, if the child wants to be homeschooled and if one or both parents are able to do it.

Q: Another frequently asked question is what types of schools are available for the gifted child?

A: There are several including the obvious ones, public and private.

The are also ones that follow certain educational philosophies like the Montessori Method and the Waldorf Method. A more recent type is the charter school.

Q: Does the government do enough for Gifted Children?

A: The short answer is NO. However, it depends on your area, the school board and the programs they offer.

Q: What is the No Child Left Behind Act?

A: It's an act introduced in 2001 by the United States government to help students attain grade level competency. Go here for much more information.

Q: What can I do if my gifted child is bored or underachieving?

A: When this happens, it's not the child's fault. Parents need to find out what is going on at school and if their child's needs are being met. Gifted children need to be challenged and have a right to learn.

Q: What can I do to challenge my child?

A: As a parent of a gifted child, you know how important it is to keep them challenged. This can be done at home through board games, researching projects together, by going to the library, taking music classes, weekend classes, museums and more.

Q: How can I form a good relationship with my child's school?

A: Schools appreciate parents that take time out of their busy schedules to volunteer. Volunteer at book fairs, field trips, governing boards, parents commitees or fundraising. Also, be sure to mention the positive things that happen in school and not only when a problem occurs.

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