There are many definitions and theories of giftedness.  They come from educators, psychologists, and policy makers and can emphasize achievement, ability, or inner experience, among other things. Below are just a few definitions. If you are here, you have an inkling that your kid might be gifted. After exploring giftedness in an academic way, come join some parent suppers and get some local perspectives on giftedness and raising and meeting the needs of gifted kids. Our families will be happy to help you explore giftedness and share their accumulated experiences. 

"Giftedness is asynchronous development in which advanced cognitive abilities and heightened intensity combine to create inner experiences and awareness that are qualitatively different from the norm.  This asynchrony increases with higher intellectual capacity.  The uniqueness of the gifted renders them particularly vulnerable and requires modifications in parenting, teaching and counseling in order for them to develop optimally."  (The Columbus Group)

"Students with gifts and talents perform - or have the capability to perform - at higher levels compared to others of the same age, experience, and environment in one or more domains. They require modification(s) to their educational experience(s) to learn and realize their potential. Student with gifts and talents:

• Come from all racial, ethnic, and cultural populations, as well as all economic strata.

• Require sufficient access to appropriate learning opportunities to realize their potential.

• Can have learning and processing disorders that require specialized intervention and accommodation.

• Need support and guidance to develop socially and emotionally as well as in their areas of talent.

• Require varied services based on their changing needs"

(NAGC website)

“Students, children, or youth who give evidence of high achievement capability in areas such as intellectual, creative, artistic, or leadership capacity, or in specific academic fields, and who need services and activities not ordinarily provided by the school in order to fully develop those capabilities.”  (Javits Program, NCLB)

Wondering where you can learn more about giftedness?  The following resources are some that CGCC members have found to be helpful in their own parenting journeys:

Hoagies' Gifted Education Page - A wonderful resource for learning about everything gifted.  Be sure to check out the Gifted 101 page for more definitions and information for those just getting started.

Is It a Cheetah? - A well-known essay on giftedness by Stephanie Tolan.

Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG) - This organization provides a comprehensive SENG Library with articles on various topics, focused on the social and emotional needs of gifted children and adults.

National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) - A national organization focused on advocacy and education, they have some good resources for parents, including printable Parent TIP Sheets to read and share.

Illinois Association for Gifted Children (IAGC) - Our state organization for educators and parents of gifted students. They hold a Parent Saturday at their annual conference.

Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) - Our state board of education has resources about laws and rules governing gifted education in Illinois, as well as a Gifted Advisory Council.