I'm new to this group but very excited to have found you! Does anybody know of ways to navigate the school system (and life in general!)with a child who is gifted? I'm having difficulty in all ares at this point - and really just feel at the end of my rope! My son was evaluated, so we have paperwork, but it's all the other stuff (logistics, behavior, etc) I'm struggling with. Thanks for any thoughts!
http://nymag.com/news/features/27840/
I dont know what your concerns are but I have noticed very intelligent children refusing to do certain things - learn to tie their shoes, try new things for example and this article explains why.
Look up CA, Dept. Of Ed. And become familiar with what your child is entitled to under the law. It was my experience that the school does not provide anything they do not have to and they are not obligated to tell you your child's rights. Be an informed parent so your child can take advantage of all the district has to offer. Good luck and welcome to the site.
I do believe California still has the GATE program for elementary school kids... I would make sure to ask about that.... or something like it.
Both of my sons were extremely smart and way above average in everything, but they did fine in the gate program. Keeping in good communication with your sons teacher will also let her/him know that their teaching is not in vain and she/he will probably be more than happy to challenge your son. Being on top of it is key tho.... don't expect the school to do anymore than what it is required to do.
You might want to go "private" if you have that option and you feel the curriculum of your public school is not challenging your son enough.
*Just remember it's not about "recognition" that he's above average it's about finding ways to keep him challenged and interested in furthering his education.
I don't know what you're looking for in general, what age your child is, or how gifted your child is. There are many factors in my opinion in determining what is right for you and your child. You can start with the websites I've listed below. If you're looking at public school, call the district office and talk with their GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) coordinators. You will have a better understanding of how they approach GATE. There are also private schools for very gifted children. I know there is one in Los Angeles. This environment is important for some so gifted kids feel normal. I did a lot of research and have very distinct opinions, but each child and family are different. I can also provide a list of books if you're interested in reading up on the subject more. Personally, I find it easier to talk to people, lots of people. Best wishes!
National Association for Gifted Children
www.nagc.org
California Association for the Gifted (CAG)
www.CAGifted.org
In general, schools are not going to cater to gifted children. If he is super talented in certain areas, I would highly recommend homeschooling. You can really hone in on his strengths, talents, and passions. I am pulling my 8 year old out of public school to homeschool starting this Christmas break. We are in L.A. Unified and they do not do anything for gifted children until jr. high. There are tons of homeschooling groups and support networks in the greater L.A. area.
I dont' know how it works in your area, but here is a link to the GATE description in the Saddleback (Orange County) district. http://www.svusd.org/p_home.asp?tid=4568
You probably need to inquire with your local school district.
As to behavior, as with all kids, "gifted" kids have their own quirks. Both my boys are in the GATE program, and they each have a different way of learning. One is much more studious than the other, but he is also less mature. It's best to do some research, read some articles, and try and figure out what works best for your family.
http://www.suite101.com/content/6-personality-types-of-gi...
