https://www.nagc.org/resources-publications/resources-parents
Also, see the NAGC Brochure below on "Helping Your Gifted Child Succeed!"
Also see the Parent Resources at Hoagies: https://www.hoagiesgifted.org/parents.htm
Communication with your child’s classroom and gifted and talented teachers is the key. See the tips below.
Student needs
Programming services
Student achievement (academic growth)
Optimal performance
Learning goals
Request a convenient time to speak with your child’s teacher.
Provide your questions and concerns to the teacher in writing before meeting the teacher.
Be willing to compromise and collaborate on behalf of the student’s needs.
Keep a file of communications, learning plans and testing data on your child throughout his/her K-12 years.
Provide both positive and negative feedback for changes in your child’s learning plan, school assignments and learning activities.
Determine reasonable timelines and methods for communicating with your child’s teacher.
Do not expect your child to provide complete or accurate descriptions of school-day experiences. Communicate directly with your child’s teachers if you have questions about what is happening in the classroom.
Celebrate excellence both for your child and for those who teach your child.
Keep up-to-date with your school’s website and Infinite Campus Parent Portal.
What can you tell me about my child’s academic abilities?
When can I tell you about my child’s interests and abilities outside of school?
In school how will you…
challenge and encourage his/her learning?
recognize and address his/her unique learning needs?
support his/her continued academic success?
assure appropriate placement?
What can I do at home/school to help my child learn?
If I am not satisfied, what should I do?
Home activities that demonstrate ability and interest
Attitudes about school
Behavior at home vs. behavior at school (both positive and negative)
Examples of how the child learns best outside of school
Test data over time (on different testing instruments)
Response to particular assignments
Response to trying new things
Response to making mistakes
Independent work vs. group work
Comfort level working with “peers”
Other useful information
Avoid ambiguity, vague demands, and assumptions.
Watch your words at home.
Remain open to possibilities vs. being right.
Maintain a balanced perspective…seeking academic growth rather than perfect grades.
Allow your child to take responsibility for his/her work…and the grade.
Value a strong work ethic with high expectations.
Model resiliency and seek solutions through collaboration.
Be a “personal resource bank” for your child’s teacher.
Offer work/play samples of your child’s interests/strengths.
Provide continual feedback from the home perspective.
Discover resources/connections to enhance program options and classroom activities.
Donate your time and talent.
Network on behalf of advanced learners.
Celebrate excellence!
Be a part of the solution, not a part of the problem.
Improved student achievement
Credibility as an advocate
Mutual respect between parents and teachers
Increased communication between home and school
Trust
Balance
Increased awareness of educational issues
Support through expanded network of resources
Effective advocacy through positive political influence
Constructive contributions to the school community
Sense of purpose and accomplishment
Becoming a mentor to other parents