Is Your Child Gifted and Talented?

Is Your Child Gifted and Talented?
A gifted and talented child may possess exceptional talents in subjects such as English, maths, and science. Generally your child may find it easier to apply what they have learnt and use a variety of skills to help them solve problems and develop theories. There are also other areas that children may be gifted or talented in including music, art and design and sport. It is a good idea to look at qualities such as leadership and decision making as these can also be signs that your child is gifted and talented.
Could Your Child be Gifted?
Below is a list of just some signs that your child could be gifted and talented:
• They will tend to develop at a significant rate above their peer group.
• Gifted children are inquisitive and have a good memory.
• They are independent in their thinking, work and play.
• They learn quickly and are able to apply what they have learnt to different topics or scenarios.
• They may be very mature in their thinking and show an interest in news, people and situations and how they relate to each other.
• They possess a keen awareness of what is happening around them.
• They are able to self-learn from a wide range of resources including school, television, peers and adults.
• Gifted and talented children always appear to be gaining knowledge.
• They tend to have exceptional critical thinking skills for problem solving.
• With little assistance from others, they start to read independently before they start school and have advanced reading strategies in order to read well above their age level.
• In some cases your child may be gifted and talented, but a late starter and so will take a little longer to grow and excel above their age.
How You Can Help Your Child if they are Gifted and Talented:
In order to help your gifted and talented child you need to allow them to discover new experiences. You could try taking them to the museum or to a play, show or exhibitions. Some parents find that additional private tuition for their child can be helpful. All of these are great ways to assist a gifted and talented child, as long as it is kept to sensible limits and does not impose on your child.
The Hidden Gifted and Talented Child:
Some gifted and talented pupils are not always identified as they may not have the opportunity to participate in a sport or craft that they may well excel in. By giving your child a chance to explore a variety of activities it will enable them to excel in an activity that they enjoy.