Parent Resources
You may have just been notified that your student was identified as gifted or in the talent pool. At this point, many parents have questions and want to clarify meanings, terms, etc. Below, you will find a variety of websites, suggested books, and other resources that you may find useful.
01.
Websites Recommended
Byrdseed.com
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Why it's great:
Ian Byrd was a gifted student himself before he moved into the world of educator. He has some great ideas for lesson implementation, suggestions for parents, and a variety of his own suggested resources. Start here: http://www.byrdseed.com/parents/
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02.
Great Books!
03.
Other Resources
This book is a great starting point on a variety of topics related to gifted students at all ages, how they feel about being identified as gifted, and common challenges.
LiveBinder
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This online binder has a variety of readings, resources, and ideas. It is regularly updated and maintained by the GERC (Gifted Education Regional Consultant) for the Northeast Region, Paula McGuire.
Colorado Association of Gifted and Talented
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Why it's great:
CAGT is an advocacy group for all things gifted in Colorado. There are a variety of resources, great explanations of the law in Colorado, and other helpful links here.
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The Gifted Guru​
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Why it's great:
Lisa VanGemert has made her life work all about gifted students. Her perspective and thoughtful suggestions to educators and parents are well though out and helpful.
THE book about parenting gifted children. While long and involved, every question you have will likely be answered in this text!
Students and parents alike enjoy learning about the concept of overexcitabilities (OEs). This book not only explains the theory of OEs but explains many behavioral tendencies that puzzle parents and frustrate students. This is a great resource for conversation starters with the school and teachers.
Gifted Research​
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There are a variety of resources to find research on giftedness. This site is unique in that it is funded separately from a university and brings together a variety of professions in the research. There is a research database that may be very helpful here.
National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC)​
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Why it's great:
There are some great national programming ideas on here, parent suggestions, comparison of gifted policies and laws by state, etc. The list could continue on!
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Mensa for Kids​
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Why it's great:
Lots of free lesson ideas that can be done individually or as a class! The best one on there is the Excellence in Reading program (it is F-R-E-E), but other great ideas that parents can do with their kids at home or bring to teachers for positive suggestions.
Got a student who has been identified as gifted but just does not perform up to his/her potential? This book has helpful tips, resources, and explanations. While directed toward teachers, the writing style is easy to engage with and useful for parents as well.
