Hi nanito,

I actually haven't heard of having a completely separate class for gifted kids in first grade before. Often formal testing doesn't happen until 2nd or 3rd grade to determine whether or not a child is gifted. I think usually, kids who seem to be gifted in younger grades are selected for higher level groups in subjects like reading and math so that they can be exposed to more challenging material and concepts. If that's what your son's school is proposing (that he be in higher level groups within his class) than it's probably in his best interest to do those things so that he stays challenged and excited in school. If they're suggesting that he goes to a completely separate class then I think you should ask for a meeting with the teacher and / or principal to fiind out what it's all about. Then you can make a more informed decision about whether or not you think it's right for your son. I can't imagine that they would force him to be in that class if you really didn't think it was right for him, but I'd make sure you have all the information about it before you decide one way or the other.

Good luck!

Kat

I would recommend that you go ahead and let your son try it for at least a semester, and see if he likes it. The only mistake you could make is not trying it. B/C h could get bored in regular classes and you really do not want to hold him back, Actually that is a gift that keeps on giving.