Gifted children are just that: gifts. But
you should remember that they are also children. To help any child succeed, a
parent needs to be present and active in the parent-child relationship, though
gifted children may require slightly different resources. Here are a few things
that parents should look to cultivate when considering what is best for their
gifted child.
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| Credit: Bangkok Post |
Patience
Gifted children think and act differently
than normal children. They have the ability to engage in elevated thought or
complex behaviors unlike their peers, which can be very stressful for parents.
Parents can't follow the precedents by other children or take all of the advice
from other guardians, which can make dealing with gifted, often very
independent children very frustrating. Use patience to work with the child
instead of lashing out in frustration as that is never the answer.
The Right Class
A gifted student may be left undiscovered
in the academic world because the child isn't taking the right classes. When
the course work falls below their level, children often get frustrated and do
poorly in the class. To keep a gifted child excelling in the classroom, talk
with his or her teachers and school advisors to customize the child's education
in a way that is challenging and engaging. Always maintain good communication
with your child as well as they know what stimulates them the most.
The Right Tools
When taking classes that matches the
child's potential, he or she will often need more advanced materials to get the
job done. Things like the digital
dino-lite microscope are great because of their sophisticated technology
and durable exterior. Getting a child a compact, well-protected laptop is
extremely helpful, as well as it can help further their education by giving
them resources that haven't
been available for any other generation.
Provide Emotional Support
Gifted children often suffer emotional
distress at a young age. They may be stuck in a loop of perfectionism or
depression, which not only puts the child under major stress, but the parents
as well. To make sure the child is happy and healthy, look for the warning
signs of depressive behavior such as change in sleep, appetite, or social
withdrawal. Take the child seriously and offer unconditional emotional support
or even seek a specialist, if necessary.
Buy A Book
If a parent is ever worried about how to
handle their gifted child, they can find countless books on the subject at most
book stores or libraries. Some books offer a wealth of general information
while others delve into topics specific to each child. A book will not only
give advice for handling a gifted child, but it will also provide peace of mind
for the parent.
By considering each point, a parent can
provide the support their bright, lively, and intelligent child needs. You
child is worth putting all the effort you have into their education.
Tags
Parenting