It’s not news that parents of gifted learners are often tired. The seemingly endless trial-and-error of finding the right resources for your child can be as exhausting as it is exhilarating. Even in the boundless age of technology and digital resources, the one clear truth about gifted learners – about any student – is that fit is everything. Finding the appropriate fit in regards to content, pace, level of challenge, and overall learning environment takes time and experience. Websites are informative but static; word of mouth from other parents who have “been through the fire” is still the greatest resource for other parents of gifted children.
IEA recently hosted a Gifted Child Parent Support Group Meeting that featured a homeschooling parent panel where local parents shared their experiences and perspectives – both positive and negative – on homeschooling their gifted student. As part of the discussion, panelists and attendees shared gifted homeschooling resources and recommendations (below) which have stood the test of time and experience with their highly able learner. Many of these resources are local to the Los Angeles and Pasadena, California area, but many are offered nationwide as well.
For All Gifted Learners:
Davidson Institute for Talent Development
First Robotics Competition (FRC) Team Burbank
Institute for Educational Advancement
Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth
Saturday Conservatory of Music
Schools for Gifted Learners:
The Colburn School for Performing Arts
Eagle Rock Elementary Highly Gifted Magnet
Eagle Rock High School Gifted Magnet
Helios School for Gifted Children
iPoly High School (project-based learning; not specifically gifted)
Multnomah Elementary Gifted, Highly Gifted & High Ability Magnet
Colleges & Universities:
Splash at your local college or university
Dual Enrollment at Fullerton College
Dual Enrollment at Glendale Community College
Dual Enrollment at Santa Monica College
Evening and Weekend Lectures at Local Colleges and Universities (see individual school websites for calendar list of events)
P.E. Options for Homeschoolers:
City of South Pasadena Recreation Center
Local Parks and Recreation Departments (see your local city’s department website for offerings)
Curriculum, Charter Schools & Online Resources for Homeschoolers:
California Learning Strategies Center
Edutopia: Current Topics in Education
Golden Valley Charter (IEA is a vendor)
Homeschool L.A.
Local Public Library (homeschoolers can get a special library card for educators)
Sky Mountain Charter School (IEA is a vendor)
Meetup Groups and Additional Social Opportunities:
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Are there any resources you have found helpful in homeschooling your gifted child? Please share in the comment section below.