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Western Australia's association for gifted support, advocacy and resources

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What is Giftedness?

At Gifted WA, we believe every gifted child possesses unique potential that deserves recognition, understanding, and support. Giftedness is not solely about high achievement; it’s a natural ability to perform or understand in ways that differ significantly from age-related norms across a variety of areas, including intellect, creativity, and emotional depth.

Understanding Giftedness

Gifted children are often characterised by exceptional cognitive abilities, creativity, motivation, and emotional insight. However, giftedness doesn’t present in just one form; it can include advanced skills in logical reasoning, linguistic ability, problem-solving, or artistic expression. Gifted children may have varying intensities and asynchronous development, meaning they can excel in certain areas while facing challenges in others. This unique profile calls for a nuanced approach in education and support.

Types of Giftedness

Giftedness can manifest in several forms, such as:

  • Intellectual Giftedness: High capacity for complex thought and rapid learning across a range of subjects.
  • Creative Giftedness: Exceptional imagination, artistic talent, and original thinking.
  • Emotional Giftedness: Strong empathy, sensitivity, and emotional intelligence, often leading to profound interpersonal insight.
  • Physical or Motor Giftedness: Advanced coordination, athletic ability, or talent in performing arts.

Misunderstandings and Challenges

Gifted children are sometimes misunderstood or overlooked due to a lack of visible academic achievements or because they mask their abilities to fit in. Others may struggle with perfectionism, heightened sensitivity, or social isolation. This complexity often requires educators, parents, and communities to adopt a more personalised approach to nurturing their potential.

Supporting Gifted Children

At Gifted WA, we’re dedicated to creating an environment where gifted children thrive. We work to enhance awareness, advocate for educational accommodations, and provide resources to empower families, schools, and communities in supporting gifted children.


Here’s a draft for a “What is Giftedness?” page for GiftedWA.org.au, inspired by the guide provided:


What is Giftedness?


At Gifted WA, we believe every gifted child possesses unique potential that deserves recognition, understanding, and support. Giftedness is not solely about high achievement; it’s a natural ability to perform or understand in ways that differ significantly from age-related norms across a variety of areas, including intellect, creativity, and emotional depth.


Understanding Giftedness

Gifted children are often characterised by exceptional cognitive abilities, creativity, motivation, and emotional insight. However, giftedness doesn’t present in just one form; it can include advanced skills in logical reasoning, linguistic ability, problem-solving, or artistic expression. Gifted children may have varying intensities and asynchronous development, meaning they can excel in certain areas while facing challenges in others. This unique profile calls for a nuanced approach in education and support.


Types of Giftedness

Giftedness can manifest in several forms, such as:


Intellectual Giftedness: High capacity for complex thought and rapid learning across a range of subjects.

Creative Giftedness: Exceptional imagination, artistic talent, and original thinking.

Emotional Giftedness: Strong empathy, sensitivity, and emotional intelligence, often leading to profound interpersonal insight.

Physical or Motor Giftedness: Advanced coordination, athletic ability, or talent in performing arts.


Misunderstandings and Challenges

Gifted children are sometimes misunderstood or overlooked due to a lack of visible academic achievements or because they mask their abilities to fit in. Others may struggle with perfectionism, heightened sensitivity, or social isolation. This complexity often requires educators, parents, and communities to adopt a more personalised approach to nurturing their potential.


Supporting Gifted Children

At Gifted WA, we’re dedicated to creating an environment where gifted children thrive. We work to enhance awareness, advocate for educational accommodations, and provide resources to empower families, schools, and communities in supporting gifted children.


For more information on giftedness or to get involved in supporting gifted education, please contact us at Gifted WA.


Let me know if there are any specific details or tone adjustments you’d like to add, and I’ll refine it further.


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