I have to say that I agree with Grinity. Why does this matter? Is there a reason you want to know whether this particular kid is gifted? There is simply no way for an outsider to know to what extent a child has been pushed, or how advanced the child would be if there had been no pushing.

As far as "learning" toys are concerned, certainly they are common enough in households in which kids do not know letters and colors, etc., at barely 2 years old. That said, of course it is also possible for a child to learn these things early and not be gifted. I don't think Ruf (or any expert) would disagree with that. Can you tell the difference between a gifted kid and a kid who is ahead but not gifted? Maybe, sometimes. wink