Supporting Gifted Children: How You Can Help Your Kids

Diagnosis of Giftedness: What Now?

When the diagnosis of giftedness is on the table, the emotional chaos is often significant. On one hand, it's relieving to finally have confirmation. On the other hand, the question arises: What now? The most important tip: Take a deep breath. Usually, you instinctively do many things right. It's important to understand that this diagnosis does not have to determine your child's entire life.

You have known your child since birth, and giftedness should not change that. Your children need this security. Continue to satisfy their thirst for knowledge as before: whether it's visiting museums, reading books, doing math, or watching movies – just keep going as you have been. These activities are not only educational but also strengthen your bond. Try to recognize and nurture your child's interests without overwhelming them. It's a balancing act between support and freedom.

Openness is Key

Talk openly with your children, even if you can't answer all their questions. No one can. Especially after the diagnosis, children often have worries – whether they will become outsiders or be labeled as "nerds." Make it clear to them that giftedness is a gift that does not have to dominate their lives. Explain that everyone has special talents and that it's okay to be different.

An open conversation can help alleviate fears and strengthen self-confidence. Ask about your children's worries and fears, and listen attentively. Sometimes, just being there and listening can relieve the pressure from their little shoulders. Encourage your children to express their thoughts and feelings, and show them that it's okay not to know or understand everything.

First Steps in Support

• Reading and Languages: Let your child read or learn new languages if they show interest. Books are windows to the world and can broaden horizons. Perhaps your child will discover a passion for foreign cultures or languages they wish to pursue.
• Sports: Encourage them to try a new sport. Sports not only provide physical activity but also the opportunity to develop social skills and relieve stress. Sports can also be a great way to learn teamwork and discipline.
• Social Contacts: Promote contact with other children through club memberships or youth groups. Social interaction is important for emotional development and a sense of belonging. It helps build friendships and develop social skills.
• No Bans: Support your child if they want to learn to read or do math before school. Bans can lead to frustration, while support satisfies their thirst for knowledge. Encourage your child to explore their interests and support them in learning new things.

If your child is under-challenged in school, talk to the teaching staff. They can assess whether extra assignments would help or if a school transfer makes sense. An open dialogue with teachers can open new perspectives and help your child feel more comfortable at school. Discuss together what measures can be taken to adapt the lessons to your child's needs.

How You Can Support Gifted Children

No one has all the answers. That's okay and shows your children that there is no pressure. Find out what motivates your children and what doesn't. This way, you can provide targeted support while keeping an eye on weaknesses. It's important to find a balance between support and overwhelm. Make sure your child doesn't feel like they have to constantly perform but can also just be a child.

Isolation is a risk. Ensure that your children do not withdraw. Stay approachable and look for relaxation techniques that can help. Yoga, meditation, or simply taking a walk in nature can work wonders. These techniques can help reduce stress and strengthen resilience.

There are also opportunities for support outside of school and daycare. Children's academies and clubs have been specifically developed for gifted children. Don't stifle their eagerness to learn; instead, support it. Let your child learn and explore at their own pace. Encourage them to discover new interests and support them in pursuing them.

Sports and Libraries as Resources

Enroll your children in sports clubs. Sports not only provide movement but also the opportunity to make friends and get to know themselves better. It fosters teamwork, discipline, and a sense of belonging. Additionally, it offers a balance to the often cerebral daily routine. Physical activities can also help reduce stress and boost self-confidence.

Libraries are also a great resource. Your children can independently discover topics that interest them there. It is a safe space to satisfy curiosity and deepen knowledge. And for you, it means a little breather. Libraries offer a variety of books and materials that can support your child's development.

Specialized Schools: Yes or No?

There are now schools that specialize in gifted children. Regular schools also often offer special classes or clubs. If this is not available to you, ask the school authority if your child can attend certain subjects in a higher grade. This flexibility can help satisfy their thirst for knowledge and avoid under-challenge.

A school transfer should be well thought out. Visit the schools, talk to teachers and other parents, and weigh the pros and cons. Sometimes a transfer can work wonders, but sometimes it's better to stay in a familiar environment. Discuss with your child which option is best and involve them in the decision-making process.

Boarding School as an Option?

A boarding school can be an option, but it should be carefully considered. Not every child feels comfortable there. Inquire about scholarships to reduce costs. Connecting with other parents of gifted children can also be helpful. It's important that you make this decision together with your child and respect their feelings and wishes.

Boarding schools often offer special programs for gifted children tailored to their needs. They can provide intensive support but can also pose a challenge, as they are often associated with high performance pressure. Consider carefully whether this form of support is suitable for your child.

Support Models in School

Two models have proven effective: The acceleration model, which allows for a faster progression through school, and the enrichment model, which expands the curriculum with additional offerings. Both models offer opportunities but also challenges. It is important that the child's well-being is the priority.

The acceleration model focuses on completing the school material more quickly. This can be done by skipping grades or starting school earlier. The enrichment model, on the other hand, expands the regular curriculum with additional, challenging tasks. Both approaches have their advantages and disadvantages and should be tailored to the individual child.

It is important that the school works closely with parents to ensure the best possible support for the child. Regular discussions between teachers and parents can help monitor the child's progress and make adjustments if necessary.

Support in Daycare

Giftedness is often discovered only during daycare years. Discuss with the educators whether early enrollment is sensible. Keep in mind that intellectual maturity does not always coincide with emotional maturity. Early enrollment can help avoid boredom, but it should be well considered.

Educators can provide valuable insights on how to support giftedness in the daycare routine. Project work that challenges the child while also being fun is a great way to satisfy curiosity and promote social skills. It is important that the daycare provides an environment where gifted children feel comfortable and can develop.

Support for Parents

If you need support, there are associations that can help. Connecting with other parents is also valuable. Don't forget that you are also part of this process and deserve support. It can be helpful to network with other parents of gifted children and share experiences.

Supporting gifted children is a challenge but also an opportunity. With patience, openness, and the right support, you can accompany your children on their journey. And remember: You're doing great! Use the resources available to you and don't hesitate to seek help when you need it. Together, you can create the best conditions for your children's development.