It’s a new year for everyone, and with our improved gifted program at HUSD, it is exciting! However, mixed in with all that excitement may be a healthy dose of apprehension for both us and our children.
So how do we help them adjust? Make sure you take time to sit down with them and let them know what to expect–from when they will get on and off the bus to what their daily schedule might be like in their new classroom. Also, try your best to deal with their fluctuating emotions. Do what you can to validate their feelings and then help them turn things to a positive light.
As parents and others interested in gifted children, then what? Once those children have gone through the school doors, how do we make sure they are getting what they need? It is critical to stay in close contact with your Gifted Specialist and with your child’s teacher. It often takes careful diplomacy to get things done right, but our children deserve the effort. Be willing to go the extra mile. Talk to teachers. Talk to other parents–see what ideas they have come up with. Joining a parent group is an excellent resource for these and other issues.
Good luck to all of you this month!
Next month’s topic: Working on social skills and friendship guidelines for our gifted kids!
Thanks for all of your work and dedication. The website looks great. I often find that much of the information you provide can be applied and can be helpful to all of my children. I appreciate your insight and knowledge!