This piece lists the realities of parenting a gifted child—exhausting, exhilarating, and intense—and the practical and emotional challenges of partnering with teachers, fostering independence, managing social shifts, and finding community. It offers anecdotes about milestones, frustrations, gratitude, and a brief note on grandparenting.
Fifth graders shared eight key messages for parents of highly able children: allow transition time after school, let them work independently, respect their ideas, help them manage feelings, provide movement, acknowledge overexcitabilities, create bedtime routines, and open communication channels at home.
Tips for getting the most from a SENG conference: engage others, pursue answers, adopt or learn from visitors, enjoy local sights, start or read a book, collect contacts, seek recommendations, buy presenter books, take thorough notes, recharge, get out on the water, and reflect on what you learn.
A teacher reflects on the rewards of teaching gifted ten-year-olds: their unpredictable insights lead classes in new directions, renewing curiosity and discovery. Sharing students’ perspectives brings joy and keeps adults intellectually invigorated, offering a continual sense of wonder and youthful perspective.
