Indigo- my ds says "he can't" to think he CAN do, because kids at school are not doing. I have been gently encouraging him and pointing out that he can when he is willing to try.

Recently, I have told him that it's ok to read different (aka more challenging books) at home. He doesn't have to bring them to school if he doesn't want to.

As far as other things (math, science, etc), he asks lots of questions and talks outloud about coming up with his own solutions. This makes it easier to explore topics with him.