You've been blessed with a gifted youngster, and you want to help your child reach for the stars. Often, traditional classroom models of instruction aren't enough for students who push the boundaries of learning. They are ready to grow in leaps and bounds, so they need enrichment opportunities that can help their minds to continue to soak up as much knowledge as possible. You can help your child reach his or her full potential when you look for schools that offer more than your typical classroom.

Research Your Options

The first step is to scope out all the possibilities that are available for your child. Find out if there is a middle school in your area that caters to gifted students. Middle school is a pivotal point in your child's life when there is a shift in learning goals. While elementary school provides the springboard for learning by acquiring basic skills and strategies, middle school enables your child to delve into deeper concepts necessary for finding a career. Middle schools designed for gifted students understand their curious nature, their need for teaching methods that think outside the box, and their ability to move at a fast pace. When you match your child with a school that is the right fit, your son or daughter will be able to thrive.

Reference: National Association for Gifted Children

Consider Online Opportunities

The internet offers your child a wealth of opportunities for expanded learning with programs that target the gifted. Look for online instruction that understands the importance of condensing or compacting the curriculum, accelerated learning, and the need for specialized programming. Excellence in teaching is a must. Make sure your child's online instructors are highly effective and commended. Online learning will allow your child to learn at his or her own pace with more flexibility in scheduling. This will enable more hands-on learning and the opportunity for excursions into the world outside the classroom.

Reference: International Connections Academy

Private Schools Open the Door to Possibilities

Private schools are another alternative that can meet the needs of gifted children. Prep schools and private schools are more likely to provide your child with smaller student-to-teacher ratios and individualized instruction. This allows the teachers to tailor their lesson plans more closely along the lines of what students need, instead of trying to cater to a large number of students. Most importantly, your child will have the opportunity to direct his or her own path in learning. Education is not one-size-fits-all for any child.

Reference: Carden Conejo

Seek out the various opportunities available in your area for your gifted child, even if it means going out of your school district. After-school programming and programs offered by local colleges can enhance your child's education as well. Your main goal should be to teach your child that the sky's the limit.

At Bat is creating programs that educate the youth on the fundamentals of baseball and softball. We're encouraging the minority to engage in the sport and building their confidence.