Q: I am wondering if I have a gifted child. My son is seven and in the first grade. Since the age of two, he knew all of his colors, shapes, and could speak very well. Since the beginning of this past summer, he has been able to read almost anything at third- and fourth-grade levels. He does math on second- and third-grade levels. He is so inquisitive and smart, it's unbelievable.

If he is gifted, how can I enhance his skills even more and keep him interested? He is very eager to learn everything.

A: Your son does sound as if he is intellectually gifted. Such children often provide special challenges to their parents. You should certainly encourage your son's love of learning. Try to broaden his inquisitiveness and interest in his surroundings so he can enjoy learning about the community, nature, and other people. Encourage his questioning and enjoy the world of books and music and movement with him.

Social and emotional learning are also important for him. While you can certainly be pleased and excited about his learning, it's important that he not learn to define himself only by his brain. Being smart is an advantage, but being a good person extends his ability to contribute.

You may wish to look at the web site for the National Association for Gifted Children for more information about gifted children. My book Keys To Parenting the Gifted Child will also be helpful to you.

Dr. Sylvia Rimm, Phd

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