How to Identify an Intellectually Gifted Six-Year-Old

Identifying intellectually gifted children at the age of six is indeed a crucial task. Early identification and intervention can significantly contribute to their academic and emotional development. While there is no perfect test, certain indicators can help professionals and parents recognize these children.

Parental Intelligence and Family Background

One of the key indicators is the intelligence of the parents. A child with one parent having a high IQ (around 130) and the other having a professional background (like a doctor or lawyer) increases the likelihood of the child being gifted. Conversely, if both parents have lower IQs (like a cleaner and a checkout clerk), the chances of a gifted child are significantly reduced. This is because around 80% of IQ is heritable; thus, a higher intellectual environment can contribute to a child's intellectual growth.

Highly Sensitive People and Giftedness

The term Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) refers to individuals who are more sensitive to their environment. Studies show that approximately 10 to 20% of the population are HSPs, while around 97% of gifted children fall into this category. HSPs have a different neurology and biochemistry, including significantly lower serotonin and dopamine levels compared to the general population.

For instance, from a personal perspective, as a child, I refused to wear plastic diapers and only wore soft cotton clothes. I continue to wear ultra-soft fabrics, like cashmere, and use a lot of fabric conditioner to make my clothes soft. I also remove labels from clothing if they irritate me. My sensitivity is so pronounced that I am a professional chef due to my sensitive palette and a professional golfer due to my sharp distance vision. Gifted individuals often have heightened sensitivity in at least one of their senses, which can manifest in various ways.

Moral Development

Gifted children, even at a young age, exhibit strong moral principles. Unlike many adults who might have inherited a moral code, gifted children often develop their own unique set of morals. This is evident in their ability to question and critically evaluate concepts and doctrines, including religious beliefs. Gifted six-year-olds are unlikely to accept the inconsistencies in many religions, showing a more independent and rational moral development.

For example, when I was about five years old, I read about both the creationist story in the Bible and the big bang theory and evolutionary theory. I rejected the creationist story as a mere tale lacking evidence, while I saw the overwhelming evidence supporting the big bang and evolutionary theory. In a Roman Catholic household, I turned atheist at five and refused Christmas presents, leading to my expulsion from Sunday school after my controversial statement about the priest.

Unexplained Exceptional Behavior

By the age of six, you should expect to see clear signs of exceptional behavior that cannot be easily explained. If adults are skeptical or unsure, there's a strong chance you have a gifted child. These children often exhibit skills or knowledge that go beyond their age level, display advanced problem-solving abilities, and have a curious and inquisitive nature.

Parents should pay attention to these behavioral signs and consider seeking professional evaluation for early intervention and support. Recognizing and nurturing intellectually gifted children at an early age can set them on a path to success and fulfillment.

Conclusion

Identifying intellectually gifted children early is important for their future success. By considering parental intelligence, the traits of highly sensitive people, and moral development, you can better recognize and support intellectual giftedness in six-year-olds. Recognizing these signs can help ensure that these children receive the appropriate education and resources to thrive.