Giftedness
Types of Giftedness in Children
Giftedness can show up in many ways, not just academics. Some areas include:
Advanced Academic Skills
Reading, math, or writing abilities well beyond grade level.
Leadership and Curiosity
Asking advanced questions, displaying initiative, or showing strong interests.
Exceptional Memory and Reasoning
Quick to grasp concepts, solve puzzles, or make connections.
Twice-Exceptional (2e)
Gifted children who also have learning, attention, or emotional challenges.
Creativity and Imagination
Unique problem-solving approaches, innovative ideas, or artistic talent.
Understanding Giftedness
Giftedness is more than being “ahead” in school. It is a way of thinking, learning, and experiencing the world that can bring both strengths and challenges.
- Gifted children may excel academically but struggle socially or emotionally.
- They may feel unengaged in school if lessons don’t challenge them.
- Some are “twice-exceptional,” meaning they are both gifted and face learning or attention difficulties.
- Without proper recognition, giftedness can be overlooked or misunderstood.
Parents often see gifted traits at home before they are recognized at school.
- Reads earlier than peers or shows advanced vocabulary.
- Solves problems in creative or unexpected ways.
- Asks complex questions well beyond age level.
- Becomes restless, bored, or disruptive when unchallenged.
- Shows strong emotions or sensitivity to fairness, justice, or criticism.
Giftedness is a strength, but it can also create challenges if not properly supported.
- At school: boredom, perfectionism, or disengagement if lessons feel too easy.
- At home: frustration when peers or siblings don’t “keep up.”
- Socially: difficulty relating to same-age peers or feeling “different.”
- Emotionally: heightened sensitivity, anxiety, or frustration when expectations aren’t met.
Psychoeducational testing helps identify giftedness and ensure children are appropriately challenged.
- Confirms areas of advanced ability and unique strengths.
- Distinguishes between giftedness and conditions like ADHD or learning disabilities.
- Provides documentation schools may require for gifted programs.
- Helps families understand both strengths and areas where support may still be needed.
- Guides teachers in providing enrichment, acceleration, or differentiation.
Recognizing giftedness early ensures children’s abilities are nurtured, not stifled.
- Prevents disengagement or frustration in school.
- Encourages confidence and motivation through appropriate challenges.
- Helps families advocate for enrichment or advanced placement.
- Supports twice-exceptional students by acknowledging both strengths and struggles.
- Fosters a balanced approach that values intellectual, social, and emotional growth.
What Happens When a Child Receives Psychoeducational Testing?
Families gain:
A comprehensive profile highlighting advanced abilities and learning styles.
Recommendations for nurturing strengths while supporting any challenges.
Clarity about whether challenges are connected to giftedness, attention, or learning differences.
Reassurance that their child’s unique abilities are understood and valued.
A detailed report that supports school placement, enrichment, or gifted program eligibility.
Nurturing Exceptional Potential
An evaluation can help you understand your child’s unique abilities — and ensure their gifts are supported, challenged, and celebrated.
