Parenting Gifted Kids with Gail Post Ph.D.

Parenting gifted children presents a distinctive set of challenges, often leading parents to feel isolated in their journey. In the realm of clinical psychology, experts emphasize the importance of acknowledging these difficulties while seeking resources and support. 

The Gifted Parenting Journey

Addressing the unique challenges of parenting gifted children requires an understanding of the diverse experiences within this demographic. The Gifted Parenting Journey: A Guide to Self-Discovery and Support for Families of Gifted Children by Dr. Gail Post sheds light on the complexities faced by parents. Notably, 40% of the book’s survey respondents had children with exceptional conditions, while 60% dealt with diagnoses such as anxiety, ADHD, sensory processing disorders, or learning disabilities. This diversity underscores the multifaceted nature of the gifted parenting journey.

Isolation and Emotional Burden

A significant aspect of parenting gifted children is the sense of isolation that often accompanies it. Parents may find themselves grappling with the unique struggles their children face, leading to an emotional burden and feelings of guilt. Recognizing the difficulty of these situations is crucial, and experts emphasize the importance of seeking resources for support and guidance.

The Role of Support Platforms

In the absence of widespread resources, support platforms play a vital role in assisting parents raising gifted children. Whether through blogs, forums, or community groups, these platforms provide a sense of connection and shared experiences. Experts stress the significance of self-care, highlighting that parents serve as primary role models for their gifted children. Demonstrating the importance of self-care and stress management becomes a fundamental aspect of parenting.

Therapy as a Tool for Support

Navigating the challenges of raising gifted children often involves the use of therapeutic tools. Experts underscore the value of therapy as an essential support mechanism, emphasizing that seeking help is an act of bravery, demonstrating a commitment to both the child’s and the parent’s mental health. Finding the right therapist is a crucial step, requiring patience and persistence until a suitable fit is found, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for both parents and children.

Building a Supportive Network

Creating a robust support network is key to the developmental journey of a gifted child. This network includes therapists, tutors, teachers, and coaches, each playing a vital role in addressing the unique needs of gifted children. Thorough research into the backgrounds of these support figures ensures compatibility and contributes to a supportive environment that nurtures the potential of gifted children.

Understanding Oneself as a Parent

Self-reflection emerges as a valuable tool for parents raising gifted children. Experts emphasize the importance of understanding oneself as a parent, recognizing strengths, weaknesses, and personal dynamics. At the core of this advice is the encouragement to appreciate a child’s unique talents and abilities, extending beyond conventional markers of success.

Parenting gifted children demands a nuanced understanding of the challenges involved and a proactive approach to seeking support and resources. This exploration of key insights into the unique struggles faced by parents of gifted children emphasizes the importance of acknowledging difficulties, finding support through various platforms, and utilizing therapeutic tools. As parents continue on their gifted parenting journey, the recognition that they are not alone in their experiences fosters a sense of community and shared wisdom. Stay tuned for further exploration of these challenges as we strive to empower and support parents raising gifted children.

Raising Lifelong Learners Episode #220 — Parenting Gifted Kids with Gail Post Ph.D.

In today’s interview, we dig deep into the unique and often misunderstood world of raising gifted or twice-exceptional children. Dr. Post’s insightful experiences and compassion resonate deeply, allowing for a profound discussion about the importance of finding support, resources, and understanding for parents of gifted children.

Dr. Gail Post not only shares insights from her book, The Gifted Parenting Journey, but also discusses her recent research alongside Barry Gelston on the experiences of parents raising gifted children. The interview includes a wealth of crucial points, from acknowledging the difficulty and specific struggles of raising gifted children, to the vital need for self-care as a parent, and how to correctly identify signs of distress in your child.

Colleen shares her unique journey of finding the right therapist for her kiddo, a process filled with challenges but ultimately rewarding. We hear about the importance of self-reflection, the need to understand oneself as a parent, and the crucial role of forming a supportive team around your child – including therapists, teachers, tutors, and coaches.

Lastly, the episode is packed with useful advice for those who might be navigating their own journies as parents of gifted or twice-exceptional kiddos. Remember to see and appreciate your child for who they are, with their unique gifts and talents – irrespective of accomplishments.

Dr. Post reassures parents that every child comes with their challenges, and they can be accommodated and celebrated with the right skills and resources.

Links and Resources from Today’s Show

Leave a Rating or Review

Doing so helps me get the word out about the podcast. iTunes bases their search results on positive ratings, so it really does help — and it’s easy!

    • Click THIS link to go to the podcast main page.
    • Click on View in iTunes under the podcast cover artwork.
    • Once your iTunes has launched and you are on the podcast page, click on Ratings and Review under the podcast name. There you can leave either or both! Thanks so much.
 

Want to record your own question, comment, or have your kids tell us what they LOVE to learn about? Click below and start recording!