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.
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.
