I still feel uncomfortable about attending -- it would be one thing if the ceremony involved achievement based on significant effort on their part. But in this case all they did was show up for a test I signed them up for. It wasn't even their idea. I fear that making a big deal out of it will some how send the wrong message about our expectations for them. So when I ask if they want to go, I guess I'll be up front about that.
I view these things a little differently.
I see so few things out there that recognise the achievements of gifted children that when something like this does come along to me it symbolises the culmination of all the unseen and unrecognised effort. I understand where you are coming from and if my children receive awards like this, that is usually the angle I address it from, the cumulative rather than the single.
Go to the ceremony, enjoy and have fun!
