How do you meet the needs of gifted students' parents?

1 Understand their perspectives

The first step to meeting the needs of gifted students' parents is to understand where they are coming from. Gifted students' parents may have different experiences, beliefs, and goals than other parents. They may have faced difficulties in finding appropriate educational opportunities, advocating for their child's needs, or dealing with social and emotional issues. They may also have high standards, aspirations, and worries for their child's future. Try to empathize with their perspectives and acknowledge their efforts and challenges. This will help you build rapport and trust with them.

2 Share your expertise

The second step to meeting the needs of gifted students' parents is to share your expertise and knowledge about gifted education. Gifted students' parents may have questions, doubts, or misconceptions about the curriculum, instruction, assessment, or services that you provide for their child. They may also want to know more about the characteristics, needs, and development of gifted learners. You can educate them by providing clear and accurate information, explaining the rationale and benefits of your practices, and providing examples and evidence of your child's progress and achievements. You can also share resources and recommendations for further learning and support.

3 Involve them in decision-making

The third step to meeting the needs of gifted students' parents is to involve them in decision-making and planning for their child's education. Gifted students' parents may have valuable insights, suggestions, or preferences for their child's learning goals, activities, and opportunities. They may also want to have a voice and a choice in the options and interventions that are available for their child. You can collaborate with them by inviting their feedback, input, and consent, respecting their opinions and values, and negotiating and compromising when necessary. You can also inform them of their rights and responsibilities as partners in the educational process.

4 Encourage their involvement

The fourth step to meeting the needs of gifted students' parents is to encourage their involvement and participation in their child's learning. Gifted students' parents may have skills, talents, or interests that they can share with you, your class, or your school. They may also have resources, connections, or opportunities that they can offer or facilitate for their child or other gifted students. You can engage them by asking for their help, contribution, or volunteerism, recognizing and appreciating their strengths and assets, and creating and supporting a community of learners and leaders.

5 Address their concerns

The fifth step to meeting the needs of gifted students' parents is to address their concerns and issues that may arise in relation to their child's education. Gifted students' parents may have worries, complaints, or conflicts about their child's academic performance, social and emotional well-being, or behavioral and motivational problems. They may also have difficulties or disagreements with you, other teachers, administrators, or other parents. You can resolve them by listening actively and empathically, acknowledging and validating their feelings and perspectives, clarifying and verifying the facts and expectations, and finding and implementing solutions and actions.

6 Maintain regular communication

The sixth and final step to meeting the needs of gifted students' parents is to maintain regular and positive communication with them throughout the school year. Gifted students' parents may appreciate frequent and timely updates, feedback, and recognition of their child's learning and growth. They may also benefit from reminders, suggestions, and tips for supporting their child at home and beyond. You can communicate with them by using various modes and methods, such as phone calls, emails, newsletters, conferences, or portfolios, depending on their preferences and availability. You can also communicate with them by being respectful, responsive, and supportive of their needs and interests.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?