What is giftedness?
Giftedness refers to exceptional potential or high capability in intellectual, creative, artistic areas, leadership capacity, or specific academic fields.
How do we know if our child is gifted or not?
Parents are the most keen observers of their children. Since infancy, they may notice that their child is at least 6 months (or more) ahead of other children on developmental milestones. They notice the baby has a steady gaze, shows exceptional memory for people and places or fast grasping of vocabulary. When such behaviour is consistently observed in your child and is not a one-off incident, it is likely that your child is gifted. You can refer to the list of characteristics of gifted: https://kaverigiftedandtalentedcenter.com/for-parents/.
Does my child need to take a test to determine if they’re gifted?
It is important to be clear about the purpose of taking the test. Scores on standardized tests (WISC, ICIT, or achievement tests) are helpful in understanding the level of advanced learning resources required by your child and encourage the school to give provisions. If your child is talented in a specific domain (performing arts, visual arts, etc), experts in that domain would be able to assess the level of talent of your child.
How can I talk to my child about their giftedness?
We benefit immensely from increased self-awareness. Talking to your child about their abilities and challenges as a gifted individual might help to normalize their experiences. It might help them to accept that they are ‘different’ from others and also seek support when required. A relaxed conversation will help your child, encourage them to ask questions. Taking the help of story books might help make the conversation interesting.
Why do gifted children need special programs?
Some gifted children dislike going to school. This is because they get bored or disinterested when a standard curriculum doesn't challenge them. Underachievement, disruptive behaviour, or socioemotional issues could result from this. Thus, it is important to match the programs with the child’s pace and level of learning.
As a teacher/counsellor, how can I get training to support gifted children?
In India, a wide variety of training programmes are offered. Two such examples are:
P.G. Diploma in Education of the Gifted: Methods and Strategies at Savitribai Phule Pune University. http://www.unipune.ac.in/syllabi_pdf/revised_2014/mms/education_gifted_methods_27-3-14.pdf. Diploma Course in Education of Gifted Students at Cluster Innovation Center, Delhi University. https://www.du.ac.in/uploads/executive_council/06042017/Appendix-IX20152-154).pdf. For a brief course, especially for in-service teachers, KGERC offers a hybrid certificate course in gifted education.
We wish to start a gifted program in our school. How do we accomplish this?
That surely will uplift the overall standards of your school. Our team specializes in customizing a design for a gifted program and train educators for your school. Write to us at gifted.inquiry@gmail.com.
We have heard about accelerated learning and skipping grades. What are the provisions that a gifted child can avail in schools in India?
There is no policy regarding the acceleration and skipping of grades explicitly mentioned in the CBSE board guidelines. Schools are encouraged to offer flexibility after consultation from experts as per the needs of the child. NEP has provided certain guidelines for gifted students. https://www.education.gov.in/sites/upload_files/mhrd/files/nep_achievement.pdf(pages 107 and 108).
As a teacher, how can I identify gifted underachievers?
Gifted underachievers lie low, mask talent, and, except for some spontaneous sparks, do not show their potential. An observant and sensitive teacher might notice a child whose potential does not match their performance. If you have noticed such a child, try to engage them in topics of their interest. Encourage them to learn without focusing on performance or results. Show faith in their abilities and establish a trusting, warm relationship with them. Lastly, also keep a watch out for twice-exceptionalities (gifted child with a disability).
Why do gifted adults often struggle with choosing a career path?
Gifted individuals tend to have diverse interests and abilities, making it challenging to narrow down to just one career field. They may feel pulled in multiple directions or unsatisfied with careers that don't fully utilise their talents. Additionally, gifted adults may set extremely high standards for themselves, leading to decision paralysis. Guidance and counselling from professionals trained in gifted education are important at this juncture.
Are there certain types of careers better suited for gifted individuals?
While there isn't a single professional path that works for everyone who is gifted, many of them are drawn to fields that value independence, creativity, lifelong learning, problem-solving, and opportunities to diversify their role. Entrepreneurship, research, consulting, technical areas, education, and a variety of career pathways are a few examples.
Does KGERC have any products for gifted children?
Yes, currently we have a book called “Jigyasa.” This maths and science book is appropriate for readers aged ten and above.
Can I get an internship at KGERC?
Yes, you can apply for an internship. Please click on this link to know more: https://kaverigiftedandtalentedcenter.com/careers
How do you join the support group for parents of gifted children?
We run a parent support group at two locations in Pune (Ganeshnagar and Baner), as well as an online parent support group. It is open for anyone to join. To know more, please email us at - gifted.inquiry@gmail.com
