Think Differently with Dr. Theresa Haskins

What Most People Get Wrong About Gifted Kids

7 snips
Dec 4, 2025
Gifted kids often face misconceptions about their abilities, with many thinking they simply learn faster. This can lead to emotional strain for those who are profoundly gifted or twice-exceptional. Unique stories illustrate the challenges they face, such as the idea that talent can 'appear' suddenly without traditional effort. Delving into real-life examples, the discussion highlights how common narratives miss the mark and why we need to support these individuals with a more honest and accurate understanding of their experiences.
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INSIGHT

Gifted Development Is Often Nonlinear

  • Gifted doesn't always mean faster learning; profoundly gifted development can be nonlinear and appear sudden.
  • People create effort-based stories to explain abilities they can't understand, creating false narratives.
ANECDOTE

Music Talent Unlocked By Gameplay

  • Dr. Theresa Haskins describes her younger son who taught himself musical structure through rhythm-based games rather than formal lessons.
  • By 15 he could play advanced pieces because gameplay had primed his ear and sense of timing.
ANECDOTE

Math As A Whole, Not Steps

  • Dr. Theresa Haskins shares her oldest son's path where math appeared as structure and patterns, not a linear sequence.
  • He tested into college calculus at 13 despite skipping typical prerequisites like trigonometry.
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