Acclimating to Change: Orienting to Intensity

Abstract

Contrary to a flight arriving at its destination, an overexcitable gifted child embarks on a lifelong journey of learning, one which will present a constant array of new places to explore, people to meet and problems to solve. Like an airline passenger, the child can feel a heightened sensitivity and experience an intensity that is overwhelming. This heightened awareness remains with them throughout their life. However, once everything is understood and accepted, overexcitable children become more comfortable and less distracted in their environment. They can then calm down and manage change. Chapter 9 presents a case study in which an overexcitable gifted child experiences success through an understanding and accommodating teacher who intervenes on their behalf. Interventions strategies are suggested for both teachers and parents to provide appropriate outlets for the emotions of overexcitable gifted children through creating a supportive environment and raising awareness of their behavior.

Seek to understand, then to be understood.

—Stephen Covey (Author). [Online], http://www.simplyaninspiredlife.com/quote/seek-first-understand-then-understood-64, as accessed on 9/6/16.