Part of a 10 booklet series on talented and gifted education, the booklet describes the characteristics of talented and gifted children during the preschool and school years. The underachieving gifted child is discussed in terms of emotional problems, school programing, and cultural difference. Special traits and skills needed for teachers of the gifted are also reviewed. Information is presented to further parents' understanding of talent and giftedness, to help both schools and parents plan the best programs for talented and gifted children both in and out of school. (Author/DLS)