As a parent, the responsibility of teaching your child the right from the wrong, falls on you. You play a major role in influencing and molding them. Their idea of morality stems from the lessons you teach them during their prime years. Of course, parenthood isn’t easy at all. There are various things you need to carefully teach your child without forcing your ideas on them. So if you find out that there is a special child in your kid’s class, it is necessary for you to teach them how to behave around this child.

So here is some heads up to begin this conversation.

1. If your kid is still in kindergarten and this is his/her first encounter with a special child, educate them all about children with special needs. The chances are they don’t even understand what the gifted child is going through.
2. Gifted children, like all other children, want friends, respect and to be included. So it’s important to not alienate them because of their differences.
3. Usually, when a child notices a classmate being different from the others, he/she shies away from befriending them. However, with your assistance, they will be able to provide the special child the care and attention they deserve. Ask them to not be timid around a gifted child. Since this way of life is new to them, they may fear initiating conversations with the gifted child. Keep reemphasizing on how this kid is no different from his/her other peers.
4. Teach your child the importance of treating them with respect rather than pity.
5. Reinforce that name calling is absolutely unaccepted, even if it is meant as a joke. Ask them to strictly avoid using words like “retard” or “mental”.
6. Many of these children with special needs appreciate the help of their peers. Encourage your child to assist a classmate with special needs whenever they require it. Whether it’s carrying their school bag, guiding their way or sitting with them at lunch, there are always opportunities to do a good deed for a fellow classmate.

On the other hand, if you are the parent of a gifted child or you know one, then educating them increases their chances at leading a normal life. So if you are on the lookout for a positive environment for them to grow and nurture, find the best schools for gifted children on Sulekha.