Gifted 101 Series: Advocating for Your Gifted Child at School

When a gifted child seems “unmotivated” or “too talkative,” it’s often a sign of unmet needs—not laziness or defiance. Advocating for Your Gifted Child at School (Guide #6 in the Gifted 101 Series) helps parents and teachers recognize gifted and twice-exceptional learners, understand their unique needs, and advocate effectively. This free guide offers real-world examples, research-backed insights, and practical strategies to build strong partnerships with schools and ensure gifted students get the challenge and support they deserve.

What’s Inside:

• A relatable real-life story of a misunderstood gifted child
• Clear definitions of gifted, advanced learner, and 2E
• Common reasons gifted needs go unmet: lack of challenge, executive function struggles, social/emotional intensity
• Advocacy strategies & sample questions for school meetings
• Guidance for building positive teacher–parent partnerships

Why It Helps:

• Replaces misconceptions with clear, research-based understanding
• Equips parents and teachers to advocate with confidence
• Ensures gifted learners’ potential is recognized and supported

How to Use It:

• Share with families beginning the gifted identification process
• Use in professional development for teachers
• Provide as a handout or resource during parent conferences

Turn advocacy into partnership—and help gifted learners thrive in school.