Working with Toddlers made it a fun experience to help Parents identify the signs of having a Gifted child. In saying that, two of my own are Gifted, themselves. Sometimes spotting the signs can be a task for Parents because they might not know what to look for. A child’s behavior can oftentimes be mistaken for misbehavior, when it is indeed a sign of being Gifted. Both of my kids have been tested and found to be Gifted, so I thought I’d share some sure signs to look for.

 

They Stand Out

 

1. Working or playing independently.

You might actually have a very social child, but when it comes to playing with other Toddlers, they are happier, alone. Sometimes Parents worry this could be an indicator for Autism, but it just may be that your child’s brain is hard at work and works best alone.

 

2. Expressing major frustration.

Many Toddlers are able to play with an object and even when everything falls apart, they can move onto something else. If you have a Gifted child, this is never the case. A Gifted child will not give up until they figure something out or make something work the way they expect it to. Until they have mastered something, their frustration will be very obvious and can trigger anger or intense crying. Always comfort your child, but make room to allow for them to get better at what they’re aiming for.

 

3. Perfectionism is the name of the game.

Gifted children will often show more, than wanting a few things to be exact. They might place their toys in a straight line. Often, it is with whichever object or activity they are most passionate about. This can be easily observed in the time they invest into completing a task or activity. Never rush it, simply allow for the time and always offer encouragement.

 

4. Strong Emotions are an understatement!

Gifted children can also experience pain on a higher level than a normal child. Many will have one or many sensory processing issues. It will be apparent when the child gets hurt. When a child cries, the shrieks will be magnified to high decibels that anyone within reach will be able to hear!  In Early Childhood, we refer to these kids as Strong Reactors. 

 

Notice, it is not an “over reactor.” A Gifted child will definitely experience pain more deeply. This is both on an emotional and physical level.When a child is angry, it can look like rage. If a child is excited, they’re bouncing off the walls! If a child is sad, they appear inconsolable.It’s not anyways easy to handle in public or at a gathering, but rest assured, it’s a clear sign that you have a work of art in your hands.

 

 

5. A large and enriched vocabulary is heard.

Gifted children will definitely pick up words from Parents and people they are around, but Gifted children naturally focus on the more difficult words. They are super specific, so if you should happen to mis-identify something, they will be quick to correct you. This is a strong quality, so laugh it off when you’re told  that you said something wrong and strive to enriched your child’s literacy. Perhaps, increase their reading level books by one or two years in age. You’ll see they pick up quickly to vocabulary words that are for older kids.

 

6. A strong memory.

Can your child recite an entire book to you? Or perhaps a long nursery rhyme? My son was able to first recite, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by Eric Carle.  He always included the author’s name, too. Adding more books, will not only increase their memory, but will also teach a child pragmatics and a love for stories and literacy. Studio show that introducing literacy to a child helps increase IQ, larger vocabulary,, higher test scores and more! Make sure to read my post on the importance of literacy.

 

7. Transitions are a nightmare!

Many times, change is not welcome, especially with a Toddler. When “time’s up” and it’s off to a new activity, Toddlers can have a tantrum, especially if they were having fun! In the end, most Toodlers can accept that it’s “time to go” or “time to eat.” But Im talking about a Gifted child. Transitions are literally a nightmare, every time!  There is a constant struggle. The child will kick, scream, cry and for long periods of time. It is consistent too. It will take place every time you have a change (nap time, getting up in the morning, eating times, getting in/out of a high chair or car seat, bath time ending). You know exactly what I mean, if your child is Gifted. Take heart, it’s so frustrating, but preparing yourself before hand is key. I’ll be posting techniques in a later post.

 

8. They “upgrade” things.

My daughter not only upgraded many of her toys, but actually did a fantastic job at making them look better too! Maybe toy companies should look to Gifted kids for improving toys. It’s important to identify that your child is not “destroying” their toy. Making them feel bad for having a creative mind is detrimental to their self esteem and creativity. Instead, help them out. Purchase some dates acrylic paints, sit down with your child and watch them or allow them to guide you with their “upgrade” idea.  My daughter has gone from upgrading to creating her own toys, jewelry and Lego videos. Get excited! Creativity had no boundaries!

 

9. Testing objects is their objective.

This one can be frustrating for Parents because expensive toys will get destroyed in the name of Science! When your child intentionally throws a toy, it might be that they are testing to see what happens. Now is the time to observe what they are looking for. Is it a bigger crash? Is it a change in structure or sound? All the senses are involved and picking up on your child’s is key to unlocking their genius. Safety first, Parents, but next time watch and see how your child is thinking and get involved. The best thing is asking your child what they are trying to do or get. They’ll be happy to show or tell you!

 

10. Asking questions is an all day occurrence.

All children are constantly learning. Gifted children can oftentimes have the need to want to know more! My son still asks questions all day. Take note, these questions will get more complex as their reasoning skills improve. My son went from asking “why does a steam train use coal for fuel?” to “how does the locomotive compressor work, Mom?”

 

So How Can You Support Your Child?

 

 

 

Enhance their love for Art.

Many Parents can support their child’s love for drawing by finger painting, use water color painting, use chalk, washable markers, paint an interior door with chalkboard paint or place on in the backyard! Allow drawing to be a fun experience. As they grow older, move up to using molding/baking clay.

 

 

Look for the gift of music.

Many Gifted children have an ear for music and can literally hear multiple instruments independently, as they are playing simultaneously. Begin with playing nursery rhymes in the car. Next, notice if they gravitate towards a musical instrument. In time, music lessons will help challenge your child’s mind in the exact way their mind needs to be challenged.

 

 

Join a group.

There are many Parent groups that join up to meet on a weekly or monthly basis. Sometimes, speaking with other Parents is such a blessing because one can learn a lot of new tips. It’s also a great way to get the support you need, plus it’s nice when others can relate to some of the very things that challenged their family too.

 

The Key Is Stimulating Their Senses

 

Can My Baby Or Toddler Be Tested?

IQ testing is not designed for children this young. They must be Developmentally ready. This means able to fully talk and walk. I recommend allowing your child to reach First Grade.  This will allow for more accurate results.

What’s The Takeaway?

Your child is unique and you don’t have to feel like you’re going crazy. Not only does a Parent need the right support, but the child does, as well. So, if your child is in Preschool, ask the Teacher how they can support your kid. Once your child enters public or private school, they’ll have a support system that can reinforce your child on their level. So for now, enjoy your child and have fun doing it!