By Ryan Lockett, Headteacher and Director of Studies at TLC LIVE Online School.
When your child is identified as gifted and talented, it can feel exciting, but also a little daunting. Many parents may discover that while their children pick up ideas and concepts more quickly, they often have complex emotional and learning needs too, and are susceptible to burnout easily. Without the right support, a gifted child might become disengaged, lose motivation or even underachieve. However, with the right strategies in place, they can flourish both academically and personally.
How to know if you have a gifted and talented child
There are a few early signs that suggest a child may fall into this category. These can include an unusual curiosity about the world, the ability to think laterally or uniquely about a topic, or an intense focus on certain interests. Some children may show remarkable achievement in one subject while being typical in others which is completely normal. Additionally, boredom in lessons can show that they’re operating above and beyond the level being taught. Keep an eye on what subjects their behaviour is different in, often this can be mistaken for bad behaviour when it’s simply disinterest at the level.
What’s important is not to assume ability in every area. Even when a child excels in one subject, they may need support or reassurance elsewhere. Ongoing assessments can be very useful here, helping parents and teachers track progress to ensure learning remains challenging, as well as pick up on any areas where extra support is needed. It is a delicate balance though, and it’s important for parents to make sure your child isn’t overwhelmed by how many tests you do with them.
The benefits of personalising your child’s education
Personalisation allows education to be shaped around the unique pace, interests, and abilities of the child. For gifted learners that might mean stretching their knowledge through accelerated study, encouraging deeper research, or giving them open-ended, real-world problems to solve.
But personalisation isn’t just about academics. Gifted children also need help developing social awareness and emotional resilience. Balancing advanced study with activities that encourage teamwork and creativity can build confidence and prevent burnout.
Encouraging independent research or cross-curricular projects can work well, alongside giving children a say in how they approach their learning. Ownership of the process helps sustain motivation and can turn a natural curiosity into a lifelong love of learning.
How to source the right support
Empathy is essential. Great teachers understand that gifted children may face as many challenges with perfectionism, self-esteem, or social belonging as they do with academic demand. The right teacher will know how to stretch learning without overwhelming the student and build a genuine rapport so the child feels understood as an individual. If you’re homeschooling through online school, you can make sure the teachers are at the right level for your child.
While parents play a huge role in nurturing talent, additional one-to-one support can be invaluable. An experienced tutor has the flexibility to work around the school curriculum and instead focus on the specific areas where a child shows passion or advanced skills.
Everyday guidance for parents
There are plenty of simple but effective ways to help a gifted child thrive:
- Encourage enrichment opportunities outside of lessons such as clubs, competitions, museum visits, or workshops.
- Speak with teachers and tutors about your child’s attainment to ascertain next steps for support outside of the classroom.
- Balance fast-paced academic work with creative or physical activities such as music, art, or sport.
- Talk positively about mistakes and challenges, reminding your child that struggling with something new is an important part of progress.
- Support friendships with peers who share similar interests, helping your child feel a sense of belonging.
- Keep communication open with your child’s school or tutor team so that everyone is working towards the same goals.
Helping your child thrive
Gifted and talented children need the same level of empathy, planning, and care as any other child, sometimes more given the complexity of their learning. With the right mix of early identification, personalised education, balanced support, and inspiring teachers or tutors, their potential can be not just reached but truly nurtured. When this happens, gifted learners grow into confident young people who feel both challenged and fulfilled.
About the expert
Ryan Lockett is the Headteacher of TLC LIVE Online School as well as the Director of Studies. In his role he supports teachers, develops engaging curriculum content and ensures TLC LIVE’s lessons meet the highest standards. He is passionate about helping students build confidence and achieve their full potential, both academically and personally. For more information on TLC LIVE Online School, please visit school.tlclive.com
