Welcome to the High Ability Parent Site!
Many parents don't realize the common characteristics, struggles, and issues that arise from giftedness. This site is here to provide you with information and resources, so you can better support your high ability student.
Which Characteristics Describe Your Child?
Common POSITIVE Characteristics of Gifted Children
Unusual alertness in infancy and later Active – eager to help, lead, direct, be involved Early and rapid learning Aware of social justice Rapid language development as a child High concentration, long attention span Vocabulary, complex grammar Strong internal control Enjoyment of learning Independent, self-directed, works alone Excels academically, large knowledge base Inquisitive, asks questions Superior analytic ability Excellent sense of humor Keen observation Imaginative, creative, solves problems Superior reasoning, problem-solving Preference for novelty Insightful, sees “big picture” Reflectiveness Patterns, connects topics Good self-concept – usually Extrapolates knowledge to new situation Searches for complexity and connection Advanced interests; Wide interest in new topics Originality High curiosity, explores how and why Specific talent areas (music, art, math, etc.) Multiple capabilities (multipotentiality) High expectations of self Overexcitability Interest in adult topics Emotional intensity and sensitivity High motivation – concentration, perseveres, persists Strong empathy, moral thinking, sense of justice Source: Davis, G. A., Rimm, S. B., & Siegle, D. (2011). Education of the gifted and talented (6th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education. ISBN-13: 9780135056073 |
Common NEGATIVE Characteristics of Gifted Children
Overactive mentally and physically Temperamental, emotional Questions rules, laws, and authority Stubborn Resists domination Egocentric, intolerant, tactless Rebellious, uncooperative Capricious, careless, disorderly Arrogant, cynical, sarcastic Impatient, demanding Absent-minded, forgetful, mind wanders Argumentative, argues everyone else is wrong Sloppy and disorganized with details and unimportant matters Underachievement Perfectionism Withdrawn Asynchronous Development Self-critical (poor self-image); critical about others Easily bored with routine Source: Davis, G. A., Rimm, S. B., & Siegle, D. (2011). Education of the gifted and talented (6th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education. ISBN-13: 9780135056073 |