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Tips for Parenting the Gifted Child

LN_specialneeds_helpgift.gif It can be a challenge raising a child who is gifted. But if you follow the lead your child gives you, your child will blossom. Here are some tips to help you stay flexible and responsive to your child's needs.

  • Read to your kid frequently, even if he can read to himself.

  • Help your child discover his own interests, such as dinosaurs or dance.

  • Encourage your child to learn about different things, such as art, nature, music, and sports.

  • Provide opportunities for your child to explore an interest in depth.

  • Take a break from the demands of your child and have someone else spend time with her, whether it's a grandparent, friend, or sitter.

  • Take the time to explain your requests to your child. It will usually get better results than "Do it because I said so."

  • Respect your child's uniqueness, her opinions and ideas, and her dreams.

Source: Adapted from "How Parents Can Support Gifted Children" by Linda Kreger Silverman, 1992, ERIC EC Digest #E515, The ERIC Clearinghouse on Disabilities and Gifted Education (ERIC EC).

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