I know that this is a touchy subject, one that some people consider elitist. But there are very good reasons for identifying gifted children and having special programs for them. It is in everyone's best interest to help these children to develop to their fullest potential, for these children have a lot to contribute to society. Today's gifted child may tomorrow invent or discover something that could save or improve the quality of your life. All of these children could be gifted children.
Gifted children tend to push the envelope.
There are as many varieties of gifted children as there are gifted children. But others are not so easily identified. Some express their giftedness by asking constant questions and getting into everything. Others have learned to hide their giftedness to avoid the inevitable teasing and torment. Still others may never be identified as gifted because they have a learning disability which masks their giftedness.