What is it that parents want for their gifted child?

Over the last few years I have worked with several hundred families with gifted children. Every child is different and the unique mix of family values, personality and level of giftedness means that no two stories are ever the same. However there is a common element to every story. The thing that every parent with a gifted child wants is that they are happy.......

Not one parent has come to see me with the aim of their child being the highest scoring student in the exams that will signify the end of their schoool career. While many want their child to be able to develop the potential and talents they have and to thrive in a learning environment, stellar achievement is not their prime goal.

Happiness is an elusive thing. Exactly what that means varies from family to family but what parents are looking for is usually wanting to see their child in as close to their 'natural' state as they can, bubbling and excited about the world, with the sparkle in their eyes. Often what they describe is a child more like the one they saw in the years before they entered the school system- relaxed in the world they are part of, believing in themselves, connecting with others.

Is this really any different to what any parent wants for their child? I doubt it. Why then do so many of these parents tell of feeling embarrased that this is their wish for their child?

When gifted children or gifted families get together and can enjoy the chance to relax, to share the highs and lows, the rewards and the daily challenges, the benefits are obvious. Seeing a child run to greet someone they met and instantly 'clicked' with during a previous workshop is a wonderful thing. Hearing parents sharing their stories and visibly relaxing is just as great.

Hopefully in those moments they can take a few steps down their individual paths towards 'happiness'.