However, they should not be the only identification device used. We now understand that heredity's influence is much less significant than previously thought. Environmental factors' interaction with heredity is to such an extent that except in exceptional cases, altering the environment at the appropriate time and directions will bring about much more significant realization of the inherent potentials governed partly by genetics. That is not to say that genetic differences between people never have an influence on their abilities, and it is not to deny the possibility that genetic factors might conceivably impose limits on performance at certain intellectual feats, just as they undoubtedly affect performance at some physical accomplishments. Until this view is firmly quashed, many young people will continue to be prevented or discouraged from undertaking plans or pursuing ambitions that are in actuality quite realizable, so long as enough opportunities are made available and sufficient support and encouragement are forthcoming.
Any child is potentially already a gifted child.
In general, current research findings give us every reason to suppose that the vast majority of ordinary young children, if they are given sufficient support and encouragement, are capable of reaching standards of achievement at ANY valued intellectual ability that is far enough ahead of current average levels of performance to be considered quite exceptional. The vast majority of children in Hong Kong do not have access to opportunities or other forms of support that nurture development of exceptional abilities. Consequently, they never achieve the goals or master the exceptional skills they might otherwise have reached or acquired. On the other hand, being gifted is to a certain extent a true handicap in the present restrictive educational environment. Many children are 'spontaneous' readers and writers and this can be delightful for both you and your child.