Top myths about gifted children
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- Everything comes easier to a gifted child -- they need no additional help or support.
NOT TRUE: Gifted kids are highly sensitive children who need a lot of support from both their family and teachers.
- It's because 'they can't be bothered' to apply themselves that holds them back in school.
NOT TRUE: If your talents are not being recognised and nurtured, imagine how difficult it must be to make an effort.
- They need very little attention from teachers because they learn quickly.
NOT TRUE: Teachers play a key role in helping talented children realise their potential.
- Gifted kids always do well at exams.
NOT TRUE: Exams can present big difficulties.
- Gifted kids are top of the class and are 'teachers' pets'.
NOT TRUE: Sometimes highly intelligent kids are seen as disruptive who constantly challenge the teacher.
- They don't need any help with homework or study.
NOT TRUE: Gifted children love discovery learning but they need to be directed to avoid bad work practices.
- Children with learning difficulties cannot be gifted.
NOT TRUE: There is a growing population in Ireland of children presenting with dual exceptionality. Some show gifted characteristics but have mild to severe learning difficulties or disabilities.
- Families of gifted children love to brag.
NOT TRUE: Parents would rather keep quiet about it.
- All gifted kids come from the middle to upper classes.
NOT TRUE: Gifted children come from all socio-economic backgrounds, and areas.
- Kids who do badly in school and fail exams cannot be gifted.
NOT TRUE: Gifted kids find study difficult as they think in an abstract and complex way. Source: giftedkids.ie
Irish Independent
