Duke Gifted LetterFor Parents of Gifted Children

The Editor's View

Plan for Summer

Volume 4 / Issue 2 / Winter 2004

A s the temperature drops farther and the winter holidays conclude, probably the last thing on your mind is summer. But now is the ideal time to begin planning summer experiences for your child. Many summer enrichment programs already have their dates and classes confirmed for the upcoming summer and will begin accepting applications as early as February. Many programs admit on a first-come, first-served basis. Researching your options now and applying early will improve the chance of your child’s being able to participate in the program of his or her choice.

Involve your child in the process. What are his interests? In what academic areas could she benefit from enriching and/or accelerated activities? Start by exploring summer offerings at colleges and universities in your area, or extend your search if a residential program interests you. Museums and other educational organizations are also good avenues to investigate. The Educational Opportunity Guide, published each year by the Duke University Talent Identification Program, lists nearly 400 programs nationwide that are appropriate for gifted students in grades 7 and up. The Internet is another means of locating and obtaining information regarding summer options for children of all ages.

Unfortunately, many parents wait too long to secure a spot in programs that would be the ideal fit for their children. So get started now—it will be one less thing to worry about once summer does arrive, and you and your child can then focus on having that interesting, challenging, and unforgettable summer that you planned for when there was still frost on your windows.
—Kristen R. Stephens, PhD

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