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Recognizing the Exceptional: Seven Clear Indicators That Your Child Might Be Gifted

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  //humor-quirks.news-articles.net/content/2025/11 .. -indicators-that-your-child-might-be-gifted.html
  Published in Humor and Quirks on Sunday, November 16th 2025 at 8:14 GMT by Newsweek

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Recognizing the Exceptional: Seven Clear Indicators That Your Child Might Be Gifted

For many parents, the moment a child shows an unusually rapid grasp of a concept or an insatiable curiosity about the world can be both thrilling and bewildering. While such traits can simply be a sign of a keen, inquisitive mind, they may also indicate that the child is on the spectrum of giftedness. A recent feature in Newsweek (published March 10, 2024) pulls back the curtain on this topic, drawing on the expertise of child psychologist Dr. Sarah M. Lewis, Ph.D., of the Child Development Institute. Dr. Lewis, who has spent two decades working with gifted children and their families, lays out seven unmistakable signs that can help parents determine whether their child might benefit from additional support and enrichment.

1. Reading Beyond Their Grade Level

One of the most reliable red flags for giftedness is a child who reads ahead of their class without much prompting. Dr. Lewis notes that children who demonstrate this ability often “exhibit a deep comprehension and an enthusiasm for text that goes beyond mere decoding.” She advises parents to watch for signs such as a child requesting books that are one or two grades above, or a child who can follow a complex narrative and ask insightful questions about the author’s intent.

The article references a 2020 study published in Developmental Psychology (link provided in the article) that found a strong correlation between early advanced reading and later academic success. Parents are encouraged to keep a record of the books their child reads and share this information with teachers when discussing potential enrichment programs.

2. Rapid Mastery of Mathematics Concepts

Dr. Lewis highlights mathematics as a domain where many gifted children display an extraordinary aptitude. Signs include the ability to solve problems that are mathematically sophisticated for their age and a genuine enthusiasm for numbers. She points out that children who are comfortable with algebraic thinking in elementary school, for instance, often go on to excel in STEM fields later in life.

The article links to a guide from the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) that offers sample math activities for gifted learners. This resource is designed to help parents gauge their child’s comfort with abstract reasoning and algebraic patterns.

3. A Remarkable Memory for Details

Gifted children frequently show an impressive recall of facts, dates, or intricate details from a conversation. Dr. Lewis explains that “such memory skills often manifest early, even before a child can fully articulate their thoughts.” Parents should pay attention to whether their child can remember a long list of items or can recall the plot of a short story in vivid detail.

An embedded link in the article directs readers to a behavioral checklist developed by the Center for Gifted Development, which assists parents in distinguishing between a normal high memory span and the level of recall typical in gifted children.

4. Advanced Language Skills and Expressiveness

Language fluency is another hallmark of giftedness. Dr. Lewis advises parents to look for a rich vocabulary for age, complex sentence structures, and a keen sense of nuance in conversation. This can include a child who can use figurative language, create elaborate stories, or ask thought-provoking questions about abstract concepts.

The article includes a link to a 2019 publication in The Journal of Child Language that explores how early advanced language ability predicts future academic achievement, providing further context for parents on why this trait matters.

5. Curiosity and Passion for Specific Topics

Many gifted children develop intense interests that can be pursued with deep curiosity. Dr. Lewis suggests that these interests may start early and can be both wide‑ranging or narrow‑focused. Whether the child is obsessed with astronomy, has a passion for painting, or is fascinated by the mechanics of everyday objects, the drive to learn and explore is a key indicator.

The Newsweek article links to a resource from Understood.org that outlines how to support a child’s specific interests through enrichment programs and community clubs.

6. Empathy and Sensitivity to Others

Contrary to the stereotype of the aloof gifted child, many show heightened empathy and emotional intelligence. Dr. Lewis notes that such children often “understand others’ feelings better than their peers and show a genuine desire to help.” They may also have a strong sense of justice and may become vocal advocates for causes that resonate with them.

A link in the article leads to a blog post on Psychology Today that examines the intersection between giftedness and emotional intelligence, helping parents understand how these traits can coexist and how to nurture both.

7. Creative and Imaginative Play

The way a child engages in play can reveal a lot. Gifted children tend to create elaborate narratives, devise sophisticated games, or invent complex systems during free play. Dr. Lewis points out that such imaginative play is not merely entertainment; it’s a cognitive rehearsal for problem‑solving and creative thinking.

The article references a 2018 study from Educational Psychology Review (link included) that demonstrates the link between early imaginative play and later academic performance, reinforcing the importance of this sign.

What Parents Should Do Next

Recognizing these signs is only the first step. Dr. Lewis provides a pragmatic roadmap for parents:

1. Document Observations – Keep a journal of the child’s strengths, interests, and everyday accomplishments.
2. Consult Educators – Share your observations with teachers and school counselors; they can often provide insight into how the child performs relative to peers.
3. Seek Formal Assessment – If the signs are pronounced, a professional evaluation can confirm giftedness and help tailor appropriate interventions.
4. Explore Enrichment Opportunities – Many schools now offer gifted and talented programs. If those aren’t available, look for community-based workshops, online courses, or after‑school clubs.
5. Prioritize Social-Emotional Support – Gifted children can feel isolated or pressured. Parents should encourage balanced social interactions and provide outlets for self‑expression.

The Newsweek piece also links to the American Psychological Association’s guidelines on supporting gifted youth, offering strategies for balancing high expectations with healthy mental well‑being.

A Broader Context: Resources and Further Reading

To deepen understanding, the article links to several reputable sources:

• National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) – Offers research, resources, and advocacy for gifted education.
• Center for Gifted Development – Provides assessment tools and program recommendations.
• Understood.org – Features practical tips for supporting gifted learning in the home.
• Journal Articles – Peer‑reviewed studies on reading, math, language, and emotional intelligence that substantiate the claims made by Dr. Lewis.

By navigating these links, parents can gain a richer, evidence‑based picture of what it means to nurture a gifted child.

Bottom Line

The Newsweek article serves as a clear, accessible guide for parents who suspect their child might be gifted. By spotlighting seven concrete signs—advanced reading, mathematical prowess, impressive memory, advanced language, intense curiosity, empathy, and imaginative play—Dr. Sarah M. Lewis equips families with the tools to spot potential early on. Armed with this knowledge, parents can make informed decisions about assessments, enrichment, and support, ensuring that the child’s talents are fostered while also attending to their emotional and social needs.

In a world where the boundaries of learning and creativity are constantly expanding, early recognition and support of giftedness can unlock a child’s full potential. As the article reminds us, gifted children are not just bright; they are also uniquely sensitive, deeply curious, and profoundly capable of making lasting contributions to society. The responsibility—and the privilege—of recognizing these qualities lies with us, the parents, educators, and communities that shape the next generation.