Do you have a gifted child in your life? Much like children with learning difficulties, gifted children are more likely to thrive when given the appropriate tools to compliment their, sometimes, unconventional learning styles. Because gifted children often feel "different", isolated and bored, not addressing their learning issues may result in depression and even delinquent behavior. Gifted children's needs do not fit neatly into one defined box. Being gifted does not mean that a child will excel in all areas of learning. Giftedness in one area often creates learning difficulties in another area.
Therefore, it is important to have available the resources that may help these children understand and apply their maximum potential. If you are not sure if a child in your life may be gifted there are certain characteristics to look for when observing the child.The US offers many state and national organizations that may help guide parents and relatives of gifted children in the right direction.
Living with a gifted child may be stressful and confusing at times. Oftentimes, gifted children may exhaust and frustrate their parents, educators, or caregivers with their seemingly endless energy, temper tantrums, and constant barrage of questions. One minute the child may resemble the intellectual and emotional qualities of a young adult only to turn into a whining, foot-stomping toddler the next - regardless of their biological age. However, with understanding, support, and patience, life with a gifted child can be an exhilarating journey with rewards that parallel those of mountain climbing or marathon running.
Most gifted children learn quickly and do not need the a great deal of repetition and lengthy exposure, to a concept, to understand it. What they long for is the 
opportunity and tools to delve deeper into a particular subject. They will seek out open-ended toys, kits and games that enable them to approach the problem from several angles. For younger children, pattern studies, building kits, and marble sets will channel their energy into constructive play. Older children will find satisfaction in more complex puzzles and scientific kits. Provide the child with resources that will allow him or her to explore answers to the many questions they are constantly grappling with. Surround them with non-fiction books that will nurture their curiosity and fiction books that will enrich their limitless imaginations.
The tremendous capabilities, that gifted children possess, make them a valuable resource in building a stronger future for our nation. Yet, in the United States, this sector of our population is often overlooked and misunderstood. Therefore, it is imperative that we recognize the valuable potential gifted children possess and how we can nurture them into becoming significant contributors to the well-being of our nation and our planet.
