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[quote=Anonymous]As a school counselor I was on my school system's GT screening panel and helped decide who was admitted to the program and who was not. We did not give high scores based on who was a better reader or was able to memorize the most information. We looked at work samples- both written and artistic. I had parents submit student directed projects created at home that provided evidence of a higher level thought process.

I also brought applicants into my office to complete worksheets- this was helpful because it allowed us an "apples to apples" comparison of applicants in the same grades.

I looked for kids who made connections that just didn't occur to every kid, their creativity reached higher levels than with other kids. They never "just" answered the questions- they provided more details and more information. I've had parents appeal the decision because she thought her DS/DD was the smartest kid out there "Just look at his grades!" But good grades don't equal gifted ability.

One thing I love about this area is that there are so many opportunities to participate in free activities. Take DD out and about as often as you can. Ask and Explain - All-The-Time! Open ended questions are key to helping your child think creatively and express themselves better.

Read. All kinds of books. Play all kinds of music- and talk about the origins of it. Show her art. The Smithsonian has a free kids series where the kids learn about artists and create similar types of art. It's really awesome. Libraries- in MoCo many libraries have discovery play rooms full of toys, puzzles, dress up, etc- other counties may have something similar. Also most have kid appropriate computer software- it will help her become familiar with technology if you don't have it at home. Build. Give her lots of opportunities to build things using a variety of material- it doesn't have to be with insanely expensive Legos- use what you have and let her get creative with it. Joke and play with words- have her tell you at least one made up joke every day.

I also highly recommend joining Our-Kids. It costs (about $12.00 a year I think)- but it's (IMO) the single best resource in the DC area for parents who want activities for young kids. Some things will cost, some things will be free but it's great to know about what's out there so you can make the choice for yourself. Our Kids also has GREAT giveaways (products and tickets to area events).

Once DD is in school I recommend that you stay in touch with the teacher. Volunteer as much as you can and get to know the staff- that way they get to know you and your daughter so if anything does come up you already have a connection to them. Also- as a counselor I was regularly told about programs or companies offering free or reduced cost services for students. Please let her/him know that you are interested in opportunities for your daughter to participate in such activities. Schools also generally have a fund to help with field trips, after school activities, etc.

I also read Unequal Childhoods and found it incredibly enlightening. One of the things that struck me was the difference between the number of words the lower class subjects heard (or spoke) in a day and the number of words for a middle or upper class subject. I don't remember the numbers but the difference was startling and sad. I definitely well worth reading- find a librarian and request it if you can't find it.

The fact that you're asking about it means that your daughter is likely to receive opportunities that her socioeconomic peers may not. You have a fortunate DD. Good luck!! :)[/quote]

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