How-to better support gifted children in their emotional, social, academic and family development.
To guide a parent of a gifted child through the necessary steps for identification and operational support, here's a detailed step-by-step plan that you can modify and adapt:
- Identification of Signs of Giftedness and Validation
Observation at home: Note early behaviors such as advanced verbal skills, insatiable curiosity, or specific talents, keen observations, quick wit, and specific performances in music, arts, or mathematics.
Evaluation in school: Consult teachers for feedback on academic performance, classroom participation, and social interactions. Gather information on how they integrate into groups or behave with friends. Are they surprised by others' behavior or deeply saddened by seemingly trivial matters that most children would overlook?
Psychometric tests: Have your child evaluated by a specialized psychologist to take IQ tests and other cognitive assessments after the age of 7 to directly access the more relevant WISC for children. This will provide a detailed report including specific recommendations for their education and development (to be taken with caution). - Education and Training
As a parent, you can train yourself: Attend workshops or seminars on giftedness to understand your child's specific needs.
Reading and resources: Read books and articles on giftedness to better understand the challenges and opportunities and anticipate potential needs. This will also help you understand their reactions and behaviors and give you the tools to adapt your behaviors, proposed activities, and possibly nourish them if they are in demand, as school alone cannot meet all their needs for understanding the world, knowledge, creativity development, or critical thinking. - Choice of School and Educational Programs
This is not a mandatory step, especially if they are adapting well to their current school and there is no pressing reason to seek alternatives. However, if necessary, you can explore various options.
Research suitable schools: Identify schools with specialized programs for gifted children or those known for their flexibility and support for individual needs.
Enrichment programs: Explore extracurricular enrichment programs, such as science clubs, advanced music classes, or artistic activities. Sports activities can also provide a beneficial balance. - Implementation of a Support Plan
Personalized Education Plan (PEP) or other PPRE how they are called in France): Work with the public school to create a personalized education plan that meets your child's specific needs. Refer to my blog article on this subject.
Classroom adaptations: Ensure that the teacher understands your child's needs and is willing to adapt teaching methods and educational content. Read my article on the Vademecum and teacher training; do not blindly trust the school. - Emotional and Social Support
A psychologist or possibly a coach specializing in giftedness can help work on social skills, group integration, building relationships and understanding their mechanisms, managing emotions, and problem-solving strategies.
Support groups: Join support groups for parents of gifted children to share experiences and advice. - Regular Monitoring and Adjustments
Periodic reviews: Regularly evaluate your child's progress and adjust educational plans and support strategies accordingly. Do not leave everything to the school and be active and willing in the co-construction and precise evaluation of their knowledge.
Continuous feedback: Maintain open and regular communication with teachers to receive and provide constant feedback on your child's emotional and social well-being at school, as well as their achievements. - Encouragement of Autonomy
Development of self-management skills: Teach your child to manage their own time, set goals, and develop independent work strategies. A coach can also help with this.
Positive reinforcement: Encourage and support your child by acknowledging their efforts and achievements, which will boost their self-confidence. Do not hesitate to show them areas for improvement or deepening. Lifelong learning and understanding the world around us are essential.
By following these steps, which can of course be adapted to individual personalities and contexts, you will have at least a roadmap and be better prepared to identify, understand, and effectively support your gifted child, providing them with the necessary tools and support to fully flourish.