When your child is gifted or has a certain talent, they should be encouraged to make the most of it. Children who are encouraged by their parents, without too much pressure, tend to thrive and make the most of their skills. But you may be wondering how to ensure that you strike a balance and don’t put too much pressure on. Here’s how you can support a gifted child.
Let them learn something new
Kids who are gifted or talented are often encouraged to focus on the one thing that they’re good at but may not get an all-round education. Or worse, they may miss out on doing things that they love and enjoy. Make sure your child isn’t just focused on one thing and can still enjoy their childhood.
Make sure they have time to relax
Time to relax is essential, so children can clear their mind and don’t feel under pressure. There are a number of activities that can be helpful for relaxation:
- Yoga
- Swimming
- Sports
- Gaming
- Reading
Make sure your child has time out, so that they don’t get burned out while they’re still young.
Get them into advanced classes
If your children show promise in a certain area, and they’re bored in their current classes, why not see if you can find them a more challenging class? See if their school offers AP Advanced Placement, which allows them to take college credits while they’re still in their high school years. AP classes can be tough, but gifted children often find them useful, as it gives them a challenge and lets them pursue the subjects they love. It can even help them get into a top college.
See what’s available locally
No matter what your child’s interests, there is likely to be a group nearby related to it. Groups can be an excellent way for them to socialise and meet people with similar interests. This can be a good way to avoid them getting isolated and ensure they have friends with the same interests who can relate to them.
Having a gifted and talented child can be tough. You want to encourage them, without too much pressure that could have the opposite effect. Follow the steps above to ensure your child has a well-rounded experience that will help them stay on track and pursue their dreams. You don’t need to be a helicopter parent and take control; you simply need to offer advice and support to help them succeed.
