Gifted children often feel very isolated from their peers. This feeling is further compounded when students begin using the "nerd" label to classify their intellectually gifted classmates. Teachers and other students often place unrealistic expectations on these children. Parents need to understand that a gifted identification does not guarantee immunity from the kind of normal failures and frustrations that every child occasionally experiences. So at home:

§ Set high expectations, of course, but make sure they are realistic!

§ Don't expect perfection. Allow your gifted child to fail, just like any other child. Much learning can result from these experiences. A gifted student may be particularly disappointed by failures, however small, so be there to support and assist in this rather painful learning process! Gifted children are not necessarily gifted in every area. Encourage risk-taking, even at the risk of a less than ideal outcome!

§ Don't confuse intellectual ability with emotional maturity. Your 8 year-old may have an incredible vocabulary and the ability to hold his own when interacting with adults, but he's still an 8 year-old and needs to be allowed to be and behave like a child.

§ Don't emphasize the "gifted label" or specific results of any IQ testing. In fact, think seriously about whether or not you wish to reveal the actual IQ score to your son or daughter. This information will not benefit your child and may only add to feelings of being "different" or superior.

§ Encourage social interaction with other gifted kids outside of school. This will really help with the "fitting in" problems and feelings of isolation that so many gifted students face.

§ By the same token, if your child is showing a lack of patience with less able peers, make an effort to point out the special "gifts" inherent in others. Even the classmate with Down's Syndrome, likely has a unique quality that deserves recognition. This will help your child place his/her own gifts in perspective.

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