Decades of research point to the value and importance of spatial skills and have demonstrated the malleability, durability, and teachability of spatial skills across the lifespan. Teachers and caregivers can apply this research in their classrooms or homes through a wide range of strategies. In this article, we offer specific, engaging activities…

The issue of parenting children and adolescents who demonstrate an aptitude or potential for music has not been extensively investigated or written about. The purpose of this paper is to explore some of the relevant issues in this domain and offer some guidance and suggestions for parents who may have a child who demonstrates a proclivity for…

Many believe that talent is inherent--a person either has it or doesn't. But research shows that a student's environment is a critical determinant for developing talents. In "Talent Zones," Dr. Lee Hancock redefines talent so that parents, teachers, and coaches of kids can create environments rich in opportunities for all kids to boost…

"Talent development" is a phrase often used in reference to the education of gifted children. Recently, it has been presented by researchers to refer to a specific approach to the delivery of gifted education services. Much of this discussion has been at the conceptual level, and there is a need for translation of the model into concrete…

Parents may gain insights from scholarly research on giftedness that can assist them in making key decisions affecting the education, future, and well-being of their child. The article looks at studies that focus on parents of gifted children and some of the issues they encounter. The research addresses such issues as: (1) Parents' role in talent…

This brief article offers tips for parents, caregivers, and teachers on how to nurture children's gifted and high-level development together to support and enhance learning. Tips relate to four "r"s: rationale, receptiveness to change, resourcefulness, and reassurance. [Note: An earlier rendition of "R We There Yet?" by Joanne…

Whether or not it is conscious, parents, caregivers, and teachers are looking for indicators that a child is not "fitting in" with peers. In most cases, teachers and parents are looking for problems or learning difficulties that need to be addressed because the earlier a problem is discovered and diagnosed, the more likely an intervention or…

Today's gifted children in middle school truly need advocates to ensure that school remains challenging through the middle grades and that the actions related to learning and talent development are positive experiences. Middle-grade advocates need a reason, a bit of prep, and a plan in order to be super advocates for children. As Chair for the…

An educational crisis in Black male representation in gifted programs exists, requiring a new lens through which to view problems and find solutions. Though many people observe that Black males face extraordinary barriers to successful participation in gifted programs, many stand by, watching as they are overlooked for or drop out of gifted…

In this article, the author presents questions that can help parents determine: (1) whether or not their child's school has a special program for gifted and talented (GT) students; (2) how valid it is; and (3) whether or not it's appropriate for their high-potential child. Each question is direct, to the point, and intended to help parents find…

In their last column, the authors described a Gold Standard School--a place in which all children thrive including the gifted and talented. The Checklist for a Gold Standard School, which is included in this article, highlights the main characteristics of such a school including a focus on continuous progress, talent development, policies that…

Suggests ways of encouraging young children to write that are preferable to forcing them to try to have their work professionally published. Points out negative aspects of young children writing for publication, and offers more constructive alternatives. (SKC)

This book provides information on 80 international, national, and regional academic competitions available to gifted students. An overview of characteristics of good competitions and ways to evaluate them is given. Competition and its impact on gifted and talented students are evaluated, and criteria are given for selecting and implementing…

Discussion of gifted children with disabilities notes that many such children are excluded from gifted programming due to a deficit in some aspect of development. The concept of global giftedness is critiqued. Examples of gifted individuals with learning, physical, sensory disabilities or with autism are offered and suggestions are given for…

This paper provides parenting strategies for parents of gifted children. Specific activities for cultivating each of Gardner's Seven Intelligences in one's children are suggested for age levels from infancy through adolescence. Tips for coping with the extra demands gifted children place on their parents are also provided, balancing the affective…