Gifted children with attention problems (ADD or ADHD) can be a real challenge for parents and schools. Here are some tips on helping these children achieve:

• Help your child choose the right books. Second graders may read at the sixth-grade level. But they don’t share sixth-grade interests. Ask a good librarian for a list of books that match your child’s reading level and interests.
• Encourage children to get exercise. Kids with ADD/ADHD can often control their behavior more easily if they get regular activity.
• If possible, give your child access to a computer. Gifted kids with ADD/ADHD often have terrible handwriting. Computers will let them write so others can read their work. If they can go online, they will also find ways to explore their interests.
• Help your child find hobbies. Gifted kids with ADD/ADHD can learn to concentrate if the subject interests them. Once they learn the skill, they can apply it in school.
• Provide reference books. These children will ask a lot of questions. Turn them loose in the atlas or the encyclopedia. They’ll find answers to their questions. They will probably learn other interesting facts. And they may not wear you out in the process.

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