Supporting Gifted Students During the Holidays
The holiday season brings excitement and joy, but it can also present unique challenges for gifted students. While their peers may thrive on time off from school, gifted children often experience restlessness, boredom, or overstimulation. In this post, we'll explore the needs and challenges gifted students face during the holidays and share practical ways to help them feel relaxed, valued, and supported.
1. Provide Structure
For gifted students, a break from the routine of school can sometimes lead to feelings of restlessness or anxiety. While it’s important to allow for flexibility, establishing simple routines—like consistent wake-up times or designated study periods—can help gifted children feel more secure during their holiday breaks.
2. Foster Their Sense of Wonder
Gifted students’ curiosity doesn’t take a break just because school is out. To keep them engaged and motivated, offer opportunities that challenge their minds and fuel their passions:
- Traveling? Encourage them to research your destination by looking at maps, learning about local history, or planning activities for part of the trip. This gives them a sense of responsibility and accomplishment.
- Puzzles and Games: Provide logic puzzles or brain teasers to keep their minds sharp. Challenge them to complete a certain number over the break—turn it into a fun goal to work toward!
- Explore Traditions: Discuss the history behind common holiday symbols and traditions. Support their curiosity by learning about new traditions together, whether they’re related to different cultures, or new activities you can try as a family.
3. Balance Activity with Rest
Gifted students can be high achievers, often driven by perfectionism. By the time the holidays arrive, they may feel mentally drained. It’s essential to give them space to rest and rejuvenate:
- For introverts: Encourage relaxing activities like watching movies, reading, or simply enjoying some quiet time. Let them sleep in or spend time in a calm, low-stress environment.
- For extroverts: Schedule play dates or time with friends. They may need this outlet to prevent feeling isolated or overwhelmed.
4. Lean Into Their Empathetic Nature
Gifted students are often highly attuned to others’ emotions. During the holidays, this sensitivity may make them more aware of stress, family dynamics, or societal inequalities. Here are a few ways to support their emotional needs:
- Foster open conversations: Gifted children may have strong emotional reactions to the stress or heightened emotions around the holidays. Have honest, supportive conversations where they can share their feelings.
- Help them help others: Gifted students often have a strong desire for justice. If they express concerns about social or economic inequalities, encourage them to make a difference through volunteering or donating to those in need. This gives them a sense of agency and purpose during a season focused on giving.
5. Support Gifted Students’ Boundaries and Help Them Connect During Family Gatherings
Family gatherings can be both exciting and overwhelming for gifted children, especially when they’re interacting with relatives they don’t see often. Social pressures and misunderstandings about their unique interests can create stress. Here are some ways to make them feel comfortable and supported during family events:
- Teach them about boundaries: Gifted children may not always feel comfortable with traditional holiday customs, like hugging or kissing everyone. Let them know it’s okay to set boundaries and interact in ways that feel comfortable for them.
- Designate a quiet space: To help them feel in control of their environment, provide a space where they can take a break if they need time to recharge.
- Facilitate meaningful connections: Family members may not always know how to engage with a gifted child, especially if their interests are outside the norm for their age. Share some of your child’s interests or preferences with relatives in advance to help guide conversations and make interactions more enjoyable.
Supporting Gifted Students During the Holidays
Supporting gifted students during the holidays means understanding their specific needs and preferences. By providing a balance of structure, intellectual engagement, rest, and emotional support, you can help your gifted student thrive this holiday season.
From all of us at Rainard, we wish you a happy, safe, and wonderful holiday season!
