Gifted Learners
What is a gifted learner?
In the Toronto District School Board, Giftedness means that your child has extremely high cognitive abilities. This may mean that they learn new things quickly, show deep curiosity, or have advanced skills for their age. Gifted children might need more challenging or varied activities to stay engaged and continue growing. It's important to support their interests and provide opportunities that match their abilities.
What are the characteristics of a gifted learner?
High intellectual capacity:
Gifted students tend to solve problems in innovative ways and think critically about various issues.
They often grasp new concepts more quickly and require less repetition to master new material.
They typically ask deep, complex questions and show a strong desire to explore and understand new concepts.
Emotional sensitivity and intensity:
Gifted students may be particularly concerned with issues of justice and ethical behaviour.
They might set very high standards for themselves and others, which can lead to stress and frustration. Alternatively, they may show a disinterest in learning if they are not adequately challenged.
How can we support gifted learners?
Encourage intellectual curiosity:
Offer opportunities for enrichment and exploration in areas of interest through books, documentaries, or educational programs.
Encourage independence and self-directed learning/exploration, allowing children to pursue their interests at their own pace.
Support emotional well-being:
Acknowledge feelings by recognizing and validating intense emotions. Encourage open discussions about feelings and stressors.
Help your child/student develop coping mechanisms for managing perfectionism and stress, such as mindfulness or relaxation techniques.
Encourage balance and socialization:
Ensure children have well-rounded schedules that includes physical activity, downtime, and social interactions.
Encourage social interaction by creating opportunities for children to interact with peers, both those with similar interests and those with different interests, to support social development.
Create a classroom environment that encourages collaboration and helps students build relationships with their peers.
Provide opportunities for creativity:
Encourage independent projects at home and at school. Allow children to explore topics in depth through independent or group projects that align with their interests and talents.
Foster creative thinking by integrating activities that promote creative problem-solving and critical thinking.
Adapt learning materials and instruction to provide more challenging and enriched content tailored to the child/student's advanced abilities.
Engage in ongoing assessment and feedback:
Monitor progress by regularly assessing and providing feedback on both academic progress and social-emotional development to ensure that gifted students are being supported appropriately.
Be prepared to adjust strategies based on ongoing assessment to meet the evolving needs of gifted students.
Resources
Gifted Learner.pdfGifted Learner Handout
References:
Canadian Psychological Association. (2024, February). Giftedness in children and youth. https://cpa.ca/psychology-works-fact-sheet-giftedness-in-children-and-youth/
