What is giftedness?
What are intelligence and IQ?
In the specialist literature, intelligence is often described as the general cognitive ability to solve problems, to learn and to adapt to new situations. IQ (intelligence quotient) measures how a person performs in standardised tests compared to their peers. Accordingly, people with an overall IQ above 130 are classified as gifted.
At Initiative für Hochbegabung e.V. we take a broader and more comprehensive view of intelligence. We know that a child does not have to be officially gifted to benefit from our courses. Children and young people who show above-average abilities “only” in certain areas – such as mathematics, languages, art or technology – are equally warmly welcome with us.
The characteristics and ways of thinking shown by gifted people manifest individually in each child, but many of them occur frequently:
- Great curiosity, expressed through constant questioning
- A quick ability to learn and a deep understanding of complex topics
- A good memory, often paired with an eye for detail
- A long attention span for tasks that particularly interest or challenge them
- A strong sense of justice and freedom
- Hobbies and interests unusual for their age
- Emotional depth and complexity
- Creative thinking
Talent meets challenge
Giftedness opens many doors and offers exceptional opportunities – but it can also bring specific challenges. Gifted children and young people often experience social and emotional challenges, because they see the world from a different perspective and understand things faster and differently than their peers. In regular lessons they are often bored, because the content does not match their intellectual level. That is why they need special support, both inside and outside of school.
What the gifted child needs
Gifted children need:
- Demanding, fascinating and imaginative projects and courses
- Individual support that matches their developmental level
- Opportunities to exchange ideas with like-minded people
- Support in developing social and emotional skills
- Understanding and flexible caregivers who recognise their special needs
Asynchronous development
Asynchronous development refers to the uneven pace of a child's emotional, social and intellectual development. This is particularly common in gifted children. While their intellectual abilities are often far above those of their age group, they may be at an age-appropriate or even younger level emotionally or socially. This discrepancy can lead to frustration and misunderstandings and requires targeted support and understanding.
Should I tell my child that they are gifted?
There is no blanket answer to this question. Many parents, however, report positive experiences with speaking openly to their child about their giftedness – especially when difficulties arise at school or in social life. The realisation “that's why I feel different” can be a relief for the child, because they then understand where the distinguishing features come from. Giftedness can be explained vividly: just as some people are naturally better at playing football, others can more easily grasp mathematical concepts, learn languages or be artistically active.