Just as the term “GT” encompasses so many neurodiverse experiences, so too diverse are GT individuals. However, there are many common traits often seen in GT people. You may see many or a few of the following traits in your own child (or yourself!):
- Ability to comprehend material several grade levels above their age peers
- Often self-taught reading and writing skills as preschooler
- Unusually large vocabulary and complex sentence structure for age
- Absorbs information quickly with few repetitions needed
- Rapid learner; puts thoughts together quickly
- Excellent memory
- Longer attention span and intense concentration
- Strong sense of curiosity
- Enthusiastic about unique interests and topics
- Enjoys solving problems, especially with numbers and puzzles
- Wide range of interests (or extreme focus in one area)
- Thinking is abstract, complex, logical, and insightful
- Advanced comprehension of word nuances, metaphors and abstract ideas
- Desire to organize people/things through games or complex schemas
- Puts idea or things together that are not typical
- Creative problem solving and imaginative expression
- Vivid imaginations (and imaginary playmates when in preschool)
- Unusual alertness, even in infancy
- Preoccupied with own thoughts—daydreamer
- Surprising emotional depth and sensitivity at a young age
- Deep, intense feelings and reactions
- Quirky or mature sense of humor
- Self-aware, socially aware, and aware of global issues
- Idealism and sense of justice at early age
Sources: The Davidson Institute and National Association for Gifted Children