Is My Child Gifted?
As parents, we notice things.
We notice how our child seems to see the world a little differently, or how they light up with curiosity, or melt down over something that didn’t seem like a big deal to anyone else. We notice when they ask questions that stop us in our tracks, or when they grasp ideas well beyond what we expected for their age.
Sometimes we wonder:
Is this just a quirk? A phase? Or is my child gifted?
The truth is, giftedness doesn’t always look the way people expect. It’s not just high test scores or advanced reading. And it’s definitely not always neat and tidy. In fact, giftedness often shows up in uneven, intense, and beautifully complex ways.
Common Signs of Giftedness
Every gifted child is unique, but here are some of the most common traits parents tend to notice:
Advanced Thinking
Learns quickly
Asks deep or complex questions
Loves patterns, puzzles, or big ideas
Early or Rich Language
Speaks in full sentences early
Uses a large vocabulary
Enjoys wordplay, storytelling, or making up songs
Curiosity & Intensity
Constant “why?” questions
Deep focus on favorite topics
Big feelings when frustrated or misunderstood
Big Emotions & Sensitivities
Feels things deeply like joy, sadness, injustice
Sensitive to sound, texture, taste, or social dynamics
Needs support with regulation and belonging
Creativity & Imagination
Comes up with elaborate games, stories, or inventions
Sees things in unusual or insightful ways
Often prefers imaginative play to group play
Asynchronous Development
Advanced in some areas, behind in others
May seem older and younger than peers at the same time
Can struggle with perfectionism, boredom, or frustration
But… Your Child May Not Show All of These
Giftedness is not a checklist. Your child may show just a few of these traits or others entirely. Some gifted kids are high achievers in school; others are misunderstood, underperforming, or even mislabeled. Some are also neurodivergent, with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, or sensory processing challenges (called twice-exceptional, or 2e).
If your gut is telling you something is different, please listen to it. You don’t need to have all the answers right away. You don’t need a formal identification to start supporting your child with more intention.
What you do need is community, tools, and encouragement from people who understand this unique path.
That’s why I created Cultivating Gifted Kids. I want to help parents like you feel seen, supported, and empowered.
Want a Printable Version?
I’ve put together a free one-page flyer that lists these common signs in a clear, beautiful layout - perfect for your fridge, homeschool binder, or to share with teachers, family members, or caregivers.
Find it (and other free printables and resources!) in our
