Hello Ladies. I don't usually post topics like this, but know there are a lot of moms on this board that can maybe share their insight.

I have a child that has been tested, and selected at the elementary school level as being "gifted". This is above the schools normal high ability students. The gifted class consists of one per grade level for all the school system. Stats wise that works out to be the top 2%.

Both of my children have done well in school, but for this child, my youngest, the circumstances of the test results still blow me away. Very long winter for the household with medical issues. My child that has been selected was seriously ill and as a result missed an entire grading period, many days after that, and still tested in the 99th percentile on this gifted test. Statistically, that's hard to ignore.

I am torn in other ways with the pros and cons of the program if my child is ready for it. The big mom question: "Will my baby be ok?" Maybe I'm more protective now after the health issue (it was serious, heart related).

The program involves communting and changing home schools. Earlier and later bus schedule, seperation from the sibling, leaving all friends and things familiar, etc. The classroom is "open concept" (no walls, petitions). Which the teacher said is a negative for distraction, vs our current school. Both of my children are so sensitive, and emotional. You would think homework would be a breeze, but it usually brings tears. The act of leaving the house to run an errand, or sometimes even have a playmate over is too much for my son. He will say, "Mommy, I'm just so tired when I get home from school, I want to be home". He is spent. This was also pre-illness, btw.

Frankly, I understand exactly what he is saying. I feel the same. My meter can only take so much, then I need my pedaling to clear my head. Ironically, one of the very first things DS does after exiting the bus is get his bike helmet and ask, "mommy, can I ride my bike now?". Yep... you betcha. DH and I both were high ability, maybe the emotinal state comes with it?

I just worry it will be too much for him. Everyone in the family is against it due to the school change. I'm in the decision alone if I sent him. There are parent's that would give their eye teeth to get into this program. With my son's test results showing that the normal schooling can not meet his identified needs (this is how the school words it), it seems foolish not to proceed. Just part of mommy heart is fighting with my logically brain at what to do.

Thanks for any thoughts.

Miranda