Some children are born with extraordinary intellectual abilities. Graced with special "gifts," they easily accomplish many difficult mental tasks that others will struggle with or may never master. These children are "gifted," and their exceptional abilities are usually apparent in early childhood.
Gifted children seem to have all the advantages. They generally walk, talk, read, write, make other accomplishments and arrive at developmental stages well before their age-mates. They sometimes receive special attention and privileges. They tend to appear as superior beings for whom life will unfold its many mysteries and to whom it will grant myriad rewards.
In truth, however, gifted children are quite fragile and – like all children – they are at risk to experience problems. There is considerable danger that many gifted children will not reach their full potential. Some will not have their gifts identified and others will have their gifts neglected. Many become bored and drop out of school. They are also more likely to become depressed or to develop suicidal tendencies than are other children. Because they are born gifted does not automatically mean their gifts will reach fruition.
Like all children, the gifted require guidance. Parents and teachers must nurture them so that society may benefit from their extraordinary abilities. At the same time, however, parents and teachers must also remember to allow gifted children to enjoy all the normal experiences of childhood. Raising and educating gifted children can be a complex task that requires maintaining a careful balance among their many intellectual, emotional and social needs.
