09/19/97

What is the best way to advocate for my gifted daughter?

Q: I have a ten-year-old gifted daughter who attends a small school with no gifted education program.  What is the best way to advocate for her?

A:Connecticut school districts are not required by law to provide special education programs for "gifted and talented" students. However,  teachers often incorporate curriculum expansion and enrichment lessons into regular education classes for students so identified.

Request a teacher who has experience teaching gifted children or one who expresses interest and willingness to learn.  Pull-out programs for the gifted can isolate these children from their peers, which may have a negative impact on social and emotional development.

Parents are the lifelong teachers of their children.  Engage your children in activities after school and on weekends to support the expression and development of their unique talents.  Enrichment programs in the community -- at camps, community centers, and colleges -- on weekends and during vacations -- can greatly enhance any child's educational development.

Ask your school principal or guidance counselor for information about local, state or national programs for the gifted.  Many colleges, universities and other organizations offer academic, music and arts programs for exceptional children of all ages.

For more information, try visiting the Council for Exceptional Children.

Please send questions or comments to bbruno@snet.net.