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It is important to strike a balance between the emotional and intellectual aspects of child development. The achievements and intellectual pursuits of gifted children are directly related to their emotional needs. Working together, cognitive and affective development are integral parts of the learning process. Problems such as anxiety, depression, and social inappropriateness can be worked through, as well as avoided, by addressing these developmental needs.
The primary approach to positively impacting the self-concept of gifted/talented children is that of the psychoeducational group. There are established common concerns of these children that can be addressed through discussions and activities with other like children.
In addition to working directly with the children around these issues through a group discussion/activity format, group opportunities are also provided to parents/caregivers to learn: 1) the special social/emotional needs of their children, and 2) strategies they can use within the family to promote the healthy social/emotional development of their children.
The target populations for this community service are those 6 - 13 year old students who have/have not been identified by school personnel as gifted/talented. Some may show a pattern of under-achievement.
For the purpose of inclusion in this program, gifted/talented children are those with demonstrated achievement and/or potential in any of the following areas:
1. General intellectual ability
2. Specific academic aptitude
3. Creative or productive thinking
4. Visual or performing arts
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