Gifted Issues Discussion homepage Forums Parenting and Advocacy Need Moral Support

Feeling isolated and a bit down about parenting my PG 4 year old. There is very little support and education about this topic where I live and I am tired of getting the same old disappointing responses when I speak to educators. Like "my child was exactly like yours and they did fine in normal schooling". Or "once the other kids learn to read it won't be an issue anymore". I am currently schooling my son at home because after the last preschool experience he went underground with his abilities. It has taken 4 months for him to feel OK about himself again.

I am embarking on a project to raise some awareness and find other supportive families in my area but I am feeling a little discouraged. The response has been lukewarm so far and it feels like a very lonely journey at this point. Just hoping I can make some progress building a small community here where I can celebrate and speak about my son without feeling uncomfortable. Glad I can come here in the meantime.

I felt very discouraged since I put my son in school at 3. We finally pushed for a grade skip him this year (he's 5 now) and are very happy. Do what's best for you guys even if others don't agree. Unfortunately I don't think talking about my son will ever be comfortable for me. People have too many misconceptions about gifted kids and thinking they are lucky and will turn out just fine. I limit my discussions to my mom and one friend in another state who has a gifted child. This board is great. I love reading about other kids like mine. I wish there were real life support groups like this so my son could make some friends like him. Good luck!

Here's some support and education on the topic. You can also "like" Davidson Gifted Development" and "Hoagies" on Facebook to fill your newsfeed with awesomeness. -Cheers

http://www.davidsongifted.org/db/browse_by_topic_articles.aspx

http://www.hoagiesgifted.org/

http://www.mothering.com/community/f/35/parenting

http://www.welltrainedmind.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=7

Sending you some hugs and support- it can be so discouraging, isolating at times.
I too have really only a few people I can talk to here in our area, and even then I feel like I screen what I say. My family on one side celebrates, the other side just ignores and downplays. It's sad.

I agree w/pps
Find your support where you can and try to keep going. I'm just exhausted somedays, then I look at my bright amazing little guy and remember why I have to push ahead!
hugs and peace to you!