Highly gifted students have a unique set of demands when it comes to education and mental growth. When you think about special needs, you probably are thinking about learning disabilities and remedial curriculums. Here are common myths regarding highly gifted students.
Highly Gifted Students Are Top of the Class
Exceptionally intelligent children may not be at the top of their class. Because of their highly curious minds, they may get bored quickly which can lead to behavior or attention issues that are misdiagnosed as a learning disability. Additionally, these students may have undiscovered learning disabilities that hide under their apparent brilliance.
Highly Gifted Children Do Not Need Special Programs
Without a proper challenge, gifted children become unmotivated and disinterested in the classroom. As they face greater challenges in higher-level academics, they may not know how to cope with these obstacles because they have never overcome such tests.
Bright and Gifted Are the Same
Bright children can function well in a normal classroom and will benefit from honors courses. However, gifted children are mentally far beyond their peers and must have a specialized curriculum in order to be challenged.
Gifted Students Must Socialize With Their Age Group
Every child needs peers, but a gifted student may not relate to their age group. They may only be 6 years old, but mentally they are closer to 8 or 9. It may be more beneficial and fulfilling to associate with children who match better in terms of mental ability and maturity.
Gifted Children Are Happy
Exceptionally intelligent children usually relate better to older individuals and are frequently bored in normal classrooms. Their intelligence sets them apart which can result in bullying or a general feeling of isolation.
Education should be tailored to a students needs and abilities. Gifted students come in all shapes and sizes, but they all need special attention to foster a love of learning and a good work ethic. Keep these myths in mind as you continue to work with this special group of children.
