Advocating

Gifted children are all but ignored by many governments and schools. There are fewer and fewer programs to motivate and encourage gifted children.

These children hold the key to a successful society. They are held back by lack of information and by the myths that surround them.

Meeting their Needs

They need to be identified early, properly challenged and encouraged to succeed and grow.

Not every child finds themselves in a public school environment that allows them to thrive.

Also, not every gifted child is given an equal chance to learn because of the myth that they will succeed on their own without help.

Do we treat talented musicians and athletes the same way?

The current trend in many schools is towards the all inclusive classroom.

This serves to further alienate the gifted child within the classroom, the school, the community and society as a whole.

For these reasons and many others, you need to be involved at every possible level.

You may be surprised by the reaction the school has when you tell them your child is gifted. It may not be the one you expect.

You may wonder if this is how it's going to be throughout your child's school years. I've heard some silly things that have surprised and frustrated me over the past few years.

Trust your feelings

It's a good idea to be informed. You need to trust your instincts and feelings and advocate for your child at the school level.

Don't create issues where there aren't any. Don't let anyone else do this either.

They don't need a mountain of homework every night to keep them challenged. The issue is during class time, not after school.

Don't be afraid to ask a lot of questions. Participate in all decisions and ask for information on what your child is learning and how he is doing.

Ask how staff are trained to teach gifted children?

Find out what the school policy is with respect to gifted children. What do they offer? How are they identify?

What enrichment programs are available? Are there opportunities for children to advance at their own pace?

Be involved so that you can be sure that what you are told will happen actually does happen.

Ask about their policy with respect to bullying.

The time may come when you want to choose between public or private school. Involve your child as much as possible. Let them have a say!

Gifted kids dropout of High School too. One of the main reasons cited is that classes were not interesting. That's why it is so important to stay as involved as much as possible!

Stay Positive

Speak with parents of other gifted children. They may have ideas and advice you haven't thought of.

Ask for one-on-one meetings with your child's teacher. Express your concerns respectfully.

Try to be positive and keep in mind you are advocating for your child. His needs should be the topic of the meeting.

Talk with your child everyday. Ask how their day was and what they did.

Don't be shy to make suggestions and offer to help. Have a sense of humour and and try not to get upset when dealing with your child's teacher.

Your school may recommend an Individualized Education Plan. This can be a useful tool if it is applied and not left in a desk drawer gathering dust.

If your child is gifted with a learning disability ask the questions and get the answers you need to best support your child.

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