Gifted & talented

A child is a child first .

They are gifted and talented second.

A gifted child is a child who meets milestones early, who has a high capacity

Imagine a child who seems like they can talk underwater, but at the same time throw wild tantrums.

To be serious in order for a child to be truly diagnosed as a gifted child you do need to have a proper IQ test.

These are carried out by a qualified psychologist (at a cost of a couple hundred dollars) to tell you accurately just how gifted your child is. It takes about 1-2 hrs to complete.

There are generally certain signs to look for.

These signs can include: having a large vocabulary at an early age, early reading, and a general zest for learning that seems limitless.

They are usually very good at picking up on non-verbal communication and can be very perceptive and sensitive since birth.

• Being self motivated to learn and discover and explore
• Being independent in thoughts and actions
• Having a long attention span
• Having a good memory
• Having good powers of observation
• Having a large vocabulary
• Seeking out challenges
• May be bored with mundane routines and repetition
• Has a variety of hobbies and interests
• Being cooperative
• Being outgoing and friendly
• Developed sense of humour early
• Has a highly developed sense of social and moral responsibility
• May prefer older children
• Physically coordinated.

Talented children are not perfect.

• Impatience or intolerance if others can’t ‘keep up’
• May have a poor self image- they may be seen to be ‘showing off’ by their peers
• They may be frustrated as they may feel not challenged enough
• May feel isolated and misunderstood.

It is rare to find an all-rounded talented child.

• Physical
• Intellectual
• Creative
• Academic
• Specialist
• Social.

It is important to remember:

• Your child is a child first and then talented second
• Not to push a child. Just let them enjoy the experience and not pressure them
• Have realistic expectations.

Having a gifted child will be demanding as they need a great deal of stimulation. It’s OK to ask for help.

Choose a good preschool–one experienced and able to cater for gifted children.

Find another family who also has a gifted child to share experiences and bounce off each other’s ideas and such. Every state or territory has a Gifted and Talented Association that can also help. For example:

NSW: www.nswagtc.org.au

SA: www.gtcasa.asn.au

WA: www.gatcawa.org Or www.australiangiftedsupport.com