Originally Posted by Michael:
My wife and I had a son that was truly gifted. Gifted children are considered handicapped children because the “don’t” fit in in normal child environments. They need extra care which will be expensive.
All parents believe their child is special but the only way to find out if they are gifted is with a professional evaluation. Both you and the parents are not qualified to make that evaluation which can be life changing for the child and family.
We took our son to a gifted school where they gave him an IQ test. Once evaluated, we were told to find a Educational Psychologist who could use their results to find the best school for his needs going forward. https://mirman.org/admission/iq-faq
Here is part of our story;
https://www.daycare.com/story/index2.html
I would suggest that you mention to the family that their child be professionally IQ tested. It will give them the truth on whether their child needs special learning while relieving you of that burden of proof.
Normal Childhood Comprehensive Developmental Milestones
https://www.daycare.com/fastfacts/de...ilestones.html
Thank you for the response and the great resources!
I was rambling a little bit so I don't think this situation needs an actual "gifted" evaluation as I don't think either of the parents believe this child is truly gifted in the high IQ sense, just that they are above the curve in their milestones.
Which, either way, isn't really my concern or my business, really. I'm actually very happy that the child's parents are proud and showing a positive response to their child's abilities! I'm more just looking for some advice on how to suggest some extra supports without making the parents feel like I don't think their child is smart or capable since they seem a little sensitive to anything that could be perceived as criticism.
I have been part of learning interventions in the past but it's always been as a teacher with the support of my director and outside resources like psychologists and social workers. Now that I'm on my own I don't really have anyone to discuss concerns with or easy access to these other professionals - but it also feels uncomfortable to just ignore the signs that a child is struggling. Especially when I know there are people and supports out there that can help!
It's just a matter of conveying that to the parents in a non-confrontational way. They are very nice people and the child is really sweet so I just want to help without hurting anyone's feelings.