- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- babies today articles
- babies today q&a
- toddlers today articles
- toddlers today q&a
- breastfeed.com articles
- breastfeed.com q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Expert Q&A
 |  |  |
| By Harriet S. Worobey, M.A. Early Childhood Educator Director, the Nutritional Sciences Preschool | ||
 |
My 2-year-old already knows his ABCs, counts well and recites many nursery rhymes. Is he gifted?
It is impossible to determine giftedness from the three pieces of information that you have given to me. Many 2-year-olds know their letters, numbers and nursery rhymes. Most of these children have very supportive parents who spend lots of time with them and encourage their love of reading and learning. They will grow up to be bright children who continue to learn as they get older. Some may develop into gifted children, but it is rare to determine that at age 2.
Most tests for giftedness are predicated on the child being able to read. There are many other dimensions that psychologists look for in a gifted child as well as verbal memory. If your child continues to exhibit signs that you feel may indicate giftedness, you might want to consider having him/her tested, but not until about first grade or so. Meanwhile, continue doing what you're doing, and your child will do well, gifted or not!
Related Expert Q&A
- Is 2 too young to put a child in competitive sports?
- Is it OK if I sometimes let my children play by themselves?
- I tried to enroll my child in a dance class, and after the first class, she just didn't want to go back. Is it OK to allow her to quit or is that setting a bad precedent?
- What should I look for in an organized physical activity program for my child?
- Should I enroll my child in an organized physical activity program?
More Answers by this Expert
- We have two boys and are expecting another baby in April. What is the best way to share the news with them?
- What are some signs of stress to look for in a child's behavior when dealing with the death of a family, friend or relative?
- Is it OK for preschool-age children to drink high protein drinks for breakfast?
- I tried to interview a preschool teacher once, but she was too busy with the kids. Should I just forget interviewing her since she is obviously so focused on the kids?
- How do I ease separation anxiety in my child when I drop him off at preschool?