Finding the Traits of Gifted Children
While reading, it became apparent that some books were better at making me laugh than others. These authors are gifted, I thought. Imagine what life would have been like without them.
I am grateful for the gift.
Lately, the author of one book has come under fire. It’s a shame, it’s a tragedy, and it saddens me.
How could anyone delight in one’s demise? And who’s perfect in EVERY way?
COMPASSION anyone?
Can we forgive others for their faults? I would rather dwell on the gift.
Like these gifted authors, what gifts does your child possess?
I had the privilege of working with gifted and talented children. Like all children, they have needs too. I also worked with children who were not identified as gifted and talented. Both experiences were remarkable.
I BELIEVE EVERY CHILD HAS POTENTIAL.
IF WE CHOOSE TO SEE IT. Gifts that are freely given should be nurtured, or they will die and, in some cases, never be discovered.
The following are ways to discover and develop gifts in your child.
Traits of a Gifted Child
1. Enjoy learning new things
2. Excellent sense of humor
3. Perfectionist
4. Extremely curious
5. Enjoy intellectual activity
6. Relate well to parents, teachers, and other adults
7. Excellent reasoning skills
8. Learn quickly and with less practice and repetition
9. Unusual and vivid imagination
10. Ask “what if” questions
(www.novakdjokovicfoundation.org)
****www.nagc.org offers an extensive list of traits in 4 domains (cognitive, creative, affective, behavioral)
How to Discover Gifts
1. Observe your child, especially at play. Take notice of every action and take stock of interests (and boredom). As teachers, we are good at observing children.
2. Talk to your child’s teacher or caregiver. Teachers know much about your child and will give feedback on interests and abilities.
3. Follow your child’s lead. As difficult as it may be to let go of control, following a child’s lead is telling.
4. Provide activities that enhance your child’s aptitude.
5. Support your child. We may disagree with what our child is doing, but affirming our child does much. Nothing is worse than feeling like the child was a disappointment. No parent is perfect, but can we at least try to be the best parents we can be? I’ve seen and read about children who grew up to be successful but hurt inside. They may try to make up for that hurt with accomplishments.
YOU ARE AMAZING, REGARDLESS OF YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS. YOU ARE A GIFT TO THE WORLD SIMPLY BECAUSE YOU WERE BORN.
6. Let your child be. Allow your young one to evolve into the being he or she was created to be. Like a flower, they will blossom.
PROVIDING CONDITIONS ARE RIGHT.
PRECIOUS MOMENTS…
They mean a lot to a child. More than a figurine. They are moments imprinted on a child’s mind communicating: I see you. You matter.
Sitting on my table is a lamp with two bears sharing a book. The cub points to the words while the papa bear is watching. The time together is precious. How often do we spend time with our children in our busy world? Every moment is valuable. It demonstrates to the child that they are worthy and deserving of our time.
I watched a dad play catch baseball with his two little boys. While I sat enjoying the natural surroundings, I couldn’t help but notice the pure joy between a man and his children. Hours passed, and I felt sorry for his arm. How blessed and happy are these children?
Others can also be happy.
Something to think about…
How often do you take the time to be with your child?
I hope you found this article helpful.
Thanks.
Elvira