Music called to future conductor, Gustavo Dudamel, at an early age. Though his family could not afford music lessons, Dudamel did what thousands of children in Venezuela do. He went to one of the hundreds of music schools of the National System of Children and Youth Orchestras of Venezuela. Founded in the 1970s by pioneering musician and economist…

The arts had a definite place in ancient Greek education and played an important part in children's physical, emotional, social, and intellectual growth. Education was based on the development of the whole person. Gymnastics, drawing, music, and poetry were used to increase physical strength, moral character, and a sense of the aesthetic. Music,…

Upstander parents look, listen, and take action on behalf of their children, going the extra mile to ensure their children get the education they need and deserve. For gifted Black students, this attention and advocacy can be essential to help them reach their full potential and overcome the social and psychological barriers confronting them at…

There is more to science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) education than simply "participating" in the arts. True STEAM means "integrating" the arts into STEM. In recent years, some educators have been reevaluating their STEM curricula and redesigning it to incorporate the arts. Others, such as the Rhode Island…

How can parents more clearly understand what's behind shifts in motivation so that they may preserve their gifted children's joy and kindle a lifelong love of the arts? A shift takes place when intrinsic motivation gives way to extrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation is desire kindled within. One who is intrinsically motivated is deeply engaged…

Research shows that when children feel engaged with learning, they are more likely to flourish socially and academically and less likely to exhibit problem behaviors. Researchers have distinguished three different types of engagement: behavioral, emotional, and cognitive. Behavioral engagement focuses on participation in academic, social, and…

In this article, the authors offer offer five key strategies for developing a mutually supportive relationship with the teacher of your gifted child: (1) Share information about how your child thinks, feels, learns best, and any specifics that will help the teacher understand and support your child's learning needs at school; (2) Approach the…

In the author's work, parental anxiety is a strong predictor of children's anxiety. This means that if a child is faced with an anxious mother or father, the child will most likely experience anxiety. In addition to parental anxiety, he contends that there are parenting situations that may contribute to a child experiencing anxiety. Children's…

Finding a school or program for your child can be a very stressful process. However, there are lots of resources out there, and many parents who have been on this journey are willing to help. This article offers an overview of the types of schools, programs, and options available to gifted children including charter, magnet, gifted, and online or…

Gifted elders (those who are both gifted and senior citizens) are one of the world's greatest untapped and unrecognized resources. Their needs are too-often neglected in today's world. Spending time with a gifted grandparent, or with a retired teacher, coach, or mentor, can be a win-win for all. However, that time can be even more productive if…

What parent doesn't hope to give their children "the world," and at the earliest possible age start their journey in becoming responsible global citizens? Through play, children as young as 3 years old can assume active roles in learning important cultural-historical concepts. At home, parents can provide cultural information and…

In 2012, the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) revised its position statement regarding the appropriate use of technology in early childhood classrooms. The increased accessibility of touch screens on tablets and smart phones led to this revision, which moves the conversation from the question of "When shall we…

There is a myth that some people are creative and others are not. However, all children are born creative. They love to explore, ask questions, and are incredibly imaginative. Parents are key in nurturing their child's creativity in the early years. This article offers resources and strategies parents can use at different ages and stages (newborn,…

Some gifted children suffer from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a neurodevelopmental disorder that impairs a child's functioning. For a diagnosis of ADHD, children under the age of 17 must display at least six symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity/impulsivity in at least two different settings (school and home, for example),…

There are many ways families can incorporate well-being practices into family life. Concerns over grades, getting homework completed, and managing busy schedules can be overwhelming for parents and children. In addition to making plans for their child's educational goals, parents should consider setting well-being goals to create a happy and…