2007/2008

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Updated 2nd Dec 2007

How to help your Gifted, Talented  or More Able Child

Click here to read our Special Educational Needs Policy
Click to access the Estover Gifted and Talented Children’s Portal

• Every child has a unique profile of talents, abilities and strengths. Discover where your child's strengths and relative weaknesses lie.
• Help your child develop their self-esteem and confidence, give praise and encouragement.
• Make time to talk with, and listen to, your child.
• Let them know you are proud of who they are and not just what they achieve. Don't let their talents become the centre of your relationship with them.
• Allow failures and mistakes - these are a necessary part of both growing up and learning.
• Discuss and talk through social situations - encourage your child to appreciate other people's points of view.
• Encourage them to extend their general knowledge - by watching the news or reading the newspaper.
• Be responsive to what they want, involve them in decisions about their lives, but be realistic and don't let everything revolve around them.
• Don't show your child off or expect others to acknowledge their abilities - encourage the child to be modest with their peers.
• Read with them, and to them, even if they are good readers. Continue to share and discuss books as they get older.
• Ensure that they help around the house with everyday tasks and build up practical life skills.
• Explore your locality to find ways to develop your child's interests eg libraries, art galleries, museums, clubs and interest groups. Involve their friends.
• Encourage physical activity to develop co-ordination and general fitness.
• Work in partnership with your child's school to meet their academic and social needs.
• Do not always focus on your child's obvious skills - give them the opportunity to broaden and extend their talents and interests. Encourage them to sample new activities.
• Be aware of the vast possibilities offered by technology, use computers for fun as well as extending knowledge and skills.
• Despite their abilities, they are children and entitled to a childhood - try not to pressurise them.
• Give them time to relax, think and plan their own time - do not organise too much for them.
• Look after yourself, these children can be exhausting as well as very rewarding.
• Any concerns or worries that you have about your child's progress at school should always be directed to the class teacher.
  

To download a copy of our High Frequency Word Sheets you need a copy of Microsoft Word, or the free Microsoft Word Viewer:

High Frequency Words 1-50
High Frequency Words 51-150
High Frequency Words 151-270

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