Making friends can be tough! One of the challenges your gifted student may face is relating to peers of their own age. What can you do to support your child who is gifted in their peer relationships?

• Teach and model empathy and self awareness for your child
  • Don’t know where to start? Try working through your thought processes aloud in front of your little one. Acknowledge how you feel and use “I” statements. “I am feeling… because of…”, “If I do…, then I will feel…”. 
• Encourage your child’s interests! 
  • Children who are gifted may gravitate towards adults and teachers in their lives because of their advanced maturity level. Common interests like sports, arts, or clubs may provide opportunities for your gifted child to interact with others their age with similar interests. 
• Role play social scenarios
  • Kiddos can practice and refine their social skills in a safe and controlled environment, with people they trust. This may allow your child  to experiment with different responses, understand different perspectives, and develop a better understanding of social cues. 
• Provide social opportunities
  • Encourage playdates and gatherings with family and friends. Smaller, less intimidating settings with familiar people can help your child build social skills gradually. 

Are you working with a word wizard? Check out the upcoming WordMasters Challenge! Perhaps the next great inventor? Then the Young Inventor Challenge might be for you! What about an emerging historian? Find a National History Day competition close to home!