Hello. I’m glad you’re here!
Most parents of “gifted” children think of teachers and school administrators when it comes to meeting their kids’ needs. If the child isn’t twice-exceptional (gifted + a disability), pediatric clinicians may not even be on their radar.
But after years of working in the healthcare industry, I know you play an important role, too.
The reason for this blog
In September 2018, I learned that my oldest child is “highly gifted.” That’s significant because I’d been trying to figure out for three years (since August 2015) why he was the target of “nice kids” and “mean kids” alike. It was happening: at school, on sports teams, during summer camp, and in our neighborhood. Pretty much everywhere.
Now I know that a combination of asynchronous development, overexcitabilities and being an extrovert, contributed to it. By first grade, social anxiety played a significant part, too.
Here’s what I also know: my son isn’t an anomaly. There are other kids going through similar struggles, and I want their parents to figure out what’s going on much faster than I did.
I’m not asking you to become an expert in giftedness; simply to know the basics. And to not fall for the myths.
What you’ll find here
In addition to what you see in this Clinicians section, I’m writing new articles each week and posting them on my home page. Some topics are educational (tics, allergies, etc.); others are inspiring or just plain fun!
Here are some stories that may interest you:
- What research is revealing about the gifted brain.
- Why gifted kids are being misdiagnosed with: ADHD, OCD, ODD, sensory processing disorder, sleep disorders and more.
- How to build “social smarts” (This speech pathologist is brilliant.)
- Success stories (Have one? Please, tell me!)
- Books and toys for your waiting area and patient rooms that will appeal to kite kids (my term for “gifted” kiddos) as well as your other patients.
Please join my mailing list to get updates and follow along!
All the best,
