Emotional Needs of Gifted Children

Children are gifted when their ability is significantly above the norm for their age. Giftedness may manifest in one or more domains such as; intellectual, creative, artistic, leadership, or in a specific academic field such as language arts, mathematics or science. However, their development is usually asynchronous. Their cognitive skills might be advanced but their social/emotional development is not. They can have a need for perfection and have emotional sensitivities and intensity, self doubts, and difficulties in finding friends. It is important to address these unique needs and support our gifted children.