Outlines the patterns and processes of visual representation which occur during early childhood and suggests some differences that may be apparent in relation to the young gifted child. Stages of development are described and the use of children's drawings as indicators of giftedness is also outlined. (Author/CR)

Discusses the underidentification of young highly-gifted children and describes the developmental differences in highly-gifted children. Issues in the identification of young highly-gifted children are addressed, along with suggestions for teacher nomination, parent nomination, ability and achievement testing, and appropriate placements of…

Five articles on the young gifted child focus on identification, the application of child development principles, characteristics, the role of play in a differentiated curriculum, and appropriate books. (DB)

A comprehensive theory is needed to explain the gifted/creative child's developing intelligence. Literature-based criteria are suggested for evaluating theories and for distinguishing theories from program applications, within four broad categories: nature of the gifted child, education and identification, framework of the theory, and criteria for…

A study explored emerging, persistent cognitive style in four gifted preschoolers to investigate how gifted potential may be transformed or obscured as abilities are applied to tasks. Remarkable style consistencies among the screening analysis, summer program behaviors, and later reports of cognitive ability and styles in kindergarten and first…

This article describes the Early Childhood Developmental Portfolios developed in Project Synergy at Teachers College, Columbia University, New York. The portfolios document the growth of young children with reference to developmental theory in specific domains and are used to identify, place, and develop curriculum for potentially gifted,…

Early life experiences can powerfully impact attitudes toward learning and later achievements in education. The chances for optimal development of children with special needs, including the gifted and talented, can be enhanced with identification and intervention at an early age. This paper reports on investigations into the lives of five gifted…