I can relate to being afraid of a younger sibling being brighter than the older. Mine are 10 and almost-2. DS2 is not as advanced as yours (dare I say "thank god"? I'm thinking it! LOL!), but he's developing faster than DS10 was at that age. DS10 is such a puzzle and so difficult academically, that I'm very concerned how to manage them both!

I'm beginning to love a portable DVD player. DS2 is done with naps already (nooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!), but he has afternoon quiet time with a documentary or nature DVD from the library.

Montessori books have helped me a lot to give him plenty of "practical life" skill practice. There's also teaching children to be do their tasks independently and not intruding upon each other.

I understand the isolation too. I picked up a flyer for a homeschool group, but then decided to not contact them -- more social connections is more risk. Their 10 year olds will be learning long division. Mine is dividing polynomials. There's no common ground in homeschooling.

I consciously have taught my kids to be independent enough that I can get a bit of quiet time to recharge. Like PP said, turn naptime into quiet time.

This sounds a bit silly, but rearranging my furniture weekly seems to reduce some of the demand DS2 has on me. Novelty?

Teaching chores early can help with intellectual stimulation and lightening your load. DS2 folds wash cloths and sort socks, tries to wash the patio door, tries to water plants. DS10 is cooking supper for me right now. :bliss:

I agree with the art station suggestion above. DS2 is finally past writing on the walls (YES!!!!), and I can leave crayons and paper out for him. Watercolor paints and scissors too when I'm feeling brave. I put art supplies on a cart that I can roll out of reach when I'm not able to supervise.

LOTS OF TIME OUTDOORS! Really does wonders. Find a safe place where you can let them roam with little supervision. Let them off the metaphorical leash and let them wander and play outside with as little direction as possible. They get fabulously tired and focused after outdoor play!

I'd also suggest that high intelligence is not a demand to give more than a family is able to provide. I can only do as much as I can in my rural community, with mostly social isolation, with 2 children to divide my time between, limited internet access, and with chronic illness. We do our best, and that's all.

(((Hugs)))