Characteristics of Gifted Children by the National Association for Gifted Children
Very often parents are the first to recognise that their child is bright for his or her age. There are many checklists of gifted characteristics. In general they contain several common elements -
Compared to other children your child's age, how many of these fit your child:
Reasons well and learn rapidly
Has extensive vocabulary and talked early
Early or avid reader
Asks lots of questions and learns more quickly than others
Has a very retentive memory
Is extremely curious and can concentrate for long periods on subjects of interest
Perseverant in their interests
Has a wide general knowledge and interest in the world
Enjoys problem-solving, often missing out the intermediate stages in an argument and making original connections
Has an unusual and vivid imagination
Is intense and shows strong feelings and opinions
Concerned with justice and fairness
Has an odd sense of humour
Sets high standards and is a perfectionist
Loses interest when asked to do more of the same
Is sensitive (feelings hurt easily)
Shows compassion and is morally sensitive
Has a high degree of energy
Prefers older companions or adults
Judgement mature for age at times
Is a keen observer
Is highly creative
Tends to question authority
Has facility with numbers
Extremely good at jigsaw puzzles
No one will show all these characteristics, but very bright children will fit a significant number of them.
