Respecting the Gift: The Boundaries We Cross with Gifted Individuals

(Even we when we mean well)

We don’t talk enough about boundaries in giftedness—but we should.

Gifted individuals, especially children, often have their boundaries crossed in subtle but impactful ways. And while these boundary crossings are usually well-meaning, they can still leave a mark.

Photo by April Walker on Unsplash

I've been reflecting lately on three kinds of boundaries that gifted kids often have to defend without even realizing it:

• The Knowledge Boundary – when we volunteer them to share what they know

• The Talent Boundary – when we watch them create without asking

• The Achievement Boundary – when we announce their accomplishments or grades before they do