This theme issue focuses on techniques for effectively parenting gifted students. In "Parenting the Middle School Gifted Child," Sharon Freitas provides suggestions for communicating with adolescents and understanding their needs as they strive for increasing independence. "In Search of the Owner's Manual" (Terrie Gray) documents the search for a child-rearing formula. "An Adolescent Already! Understanding and Meeting the Needs of Your Developing Gifted Child" (Richard Swart) reviews the development of gifted children and describes how these developmental differences often account for school problems, difficulties in family relationships, and emotional problems. "Gifted Kids Don't Come with a Set of Instructions" (Fran Westbrook) discusses the gifted label, the need for permission to fail, the need for a stimulating home environment, teaching responsibility, underachievement, and advocacy. "Self-Concept and the Gifted Child: Executive Summary" (Robert D. Hoge and Joseph S. Renzulli) addresses differences between gifted and average children in their self-concepts, effects on self-concept of labeling a child, and impact on self-concept of placing the child in a separate enriched or accelerated classroom. Other articles include: "How To Build Achievers" (Laura Hathaway); "A Mother's Joy, A Teacher's Reward" (Margaret Gosfield); "Musing on Parental Modeling" (Martha Flournoy); "Advocacy Notes" (Martha Flournoy); "Homeschool: Where Present and Future Meet" (Isabelle Nidever); "Resources for Parents: A GATE Reading List" (Jo Anne Viserta-Galinis); and"Mentoring: It's Not Just for Our Children!" (Sue Benzinger). (Most papers contain references.) (JDD)