Online Programs for Gifted Elementary Students
According to the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights, about 6% of all K-12 students are considered profoundly gifted. Yet, most of the content about giftedness on the Internet focuses on those in middle school and high school. What about gifted elementary students? By adding to the conversation, we can help these individuals and their parents understand what it takes to unlock their full potential.
Early identification gives children more opportunities to develop their academic abilities—and do so sooner. Once they have been tested, you can start looking for a more suitable learning environment. Options include in-person schooling—Gifted & Talented Education (GATE) programs, magnet schools, and pull-out programs—and online programs.
This article focuses on the latter, as it gives students the greatest access to tailored education.
Benefits of Online Programs
Through these online programs, you’ll find a much more holistic approach to your child’s overall development. That’s because they are created by experts and educators who deeply understand the gifted community.
Some of the main benefits you’ll find in these programs:
- Access to advanced curriculum
- Flexibility in self-paced learning
- Development of independent learning skills
- Opportunities for enrichment beyond the classroom
- Connecting with like-minded peers
Let’s dive into each of these a bit deeper.
Advanced Curriculum
Traditional elementary schools focus on the basics of reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. An online program, on the other hand, provides a curriculum designed for gifted individuals. Instead of them getting bored with the slow pace of standard lessons, they can experience more appropriate challenges in the classroom.
Flexibility in Self-Paced Learning
As briefly mentioned, the pacing of traditional education tends to move slower than gifted elementary students need. This can actually discourage them from participating in the class if they already understand the material and have to wait a few more weeks to take an exam. With online programs developed for gifted elementary students, there’s greater flexibility. Individuals control the speed at which they progress, taking as much or as little time as they need before moving on to the next concept.
The Development of Independent Learning Skills
Gifted students have an insatiable desire to learn and explore subjects they’re passionate about in great depth.
Enrichment Opportunities
These activities often go beyond the curriculum, providing more complex material that stimulates intellectual growth. Such programs and activities are great for gifted elementary students because it fosters their love for learning early on by giving them a chance to explore subjects they’re already interested in.
Here are a few common enrichment opportunities:
- Class-specific clubs (i.e., math club)
- Career-centric activities (i.e., a mock trial)
- Competitions (i.e., robotics)
- Activities relating to hobbies (i.e., theater)
Many of these activities can be done online, making it more accessible to people who don’t live in heavily populated areas or want to expand their horizons.
Connecting With Like-Minded Peers
Another huge benefit that comes from online programs is connecting with like-minded peers. The development of social skills is equally as important as their academic success. If gifted elementary students know people who share the same experiences as them, they’re less likely to feel isolated or anxious, which are common problems these individuals face.
Additionally, they can build a support system. That includes helping each other with challenging material, exploring interests together, and serving as motivators.
With the increased access to other gifted individuals, friendships can form during or after class (perhaps even in an enrichment program!).
Top Online Programs for Gifted Elementary Students
Here are two of the most well-known online programs for gifted elementary students:
- Davidson Explore: Students ages 9-13 can take à la carte courses in math, science, and humanities. It offers flexible schedules, personalized instruction, and opportunities for in-depth study. Unlike other programs, these are year-long courses that students develop their academic talents and social skills.
- Davidson Academy Online: Gifted students who, at minimum, have 5th grade in progress, are eligible to apply for our full curriculum. This is for individuals who are academically ready for coursework at an advanced middle school level.
Comparing Programs
If you want specific types of programs, such as language arts or STEM, you can also review our Online Program Comparison Charts to help narrow down which program would be best:
- Online Language Arts Program Comparison
- Online Science Program Comparison
- Online Coding Program Comparison
- Online Foreign Language Program Comparison
- Online Math Program Comparison
- Online Social Science & Humanities Program Comparison
- Social Engagement, General Enrichment, and Executive Function Support Program Comparison
How to Choose the Right Program
Selecting the right online program for a gifted elementary student can feel daunting at first. Start with these considerations to make the process easier:
- Curriculum alignment with the child’s interests and strengths: Look for a program that offers specialized courses specific to your child’s passions. This will motivate them and foster mastery of the subject matter.
- Accreditation and credibility: Accreditation is only achieved once a program has met specific educational standards. Research the program’s background (including instructors and curriculum) and read reviews from trustworthy sources.
- Support for individualized learning: These programs should give students academic and emotional support. This looks like having access to mentors and receiving personalized feedback.
These factors should help you find a curriculum that engages your child while simultaneously supporting their overall development. That will be key to their success!
Additional Resources & Activities for Gifted Elementary Students
Community resources will be incredibly beneficial to gifted elementary students. If these opportunities aren’t available in your area, check online.
One example of this is Davidson Institute’s Young Scholars program. Gifted children between the ages of 5 and 18 receive services that support their intellectual, social, emotional, and academic development. These services are extended to their families as well. They can engage with others who understand their unique experiences through support sessions with staff from Davidson, an online community, webinars facilitated by experts, and more.
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