Hi CP -
Wow - your discussions sound so Cool! I would never push a child to "listen" when their mind is working.
Your next step is to find a Club that you and DS can attend, on any of the subjects your son enjoys, so that he can talk to enthusiasts. I know of Mineral/Gem Clubs, and Reptile Clubs. I'm sure there are other clubs.
I believe that when you see your DS cross examining these adults at these Clubs, you will get a whole 'nother appreciation of your son.
Parenting these children is like changeing glasses over and over and over again. They are really outside the normal expectation path.
As for the tendency of thinking that being a Parent of a Gifted kid is like joining an "exclusive club of our own" - well, we are all guilty of it from time ot time. Please don't let the feelings of "I don't fit in" stop you from "taking what you like and leaving the rest." All of us grown up ex-gifted children have an "I don't really fit in here" chip on our shoulders, true?
Smiles and big friendly grin,
Trinity
