Reasons For Homeschooling + Gifted Movie Review

Parents have many reasons or factors that lead them to homeschooling whether moral, religious, political, geographical, financial, medical etc. or a combination of these. 

One of the many reasons is giftedness. In this blog we'll define giftedness and explore one example of giftedness as presented in the 2017 film, Gifted.

What is Giftedness?

Giftedness refers to exceptional ability or potential in one or more areas, such as intellectual, creative, artistic, leadership, or academic domains, compared to peers of the same age, experience, or environment. Gifted individuals often demonstrate advanced cognitive abilities, heightened curiosity, rapid learning, and a deep capacity for complex thought and problem-solving.

Key characteristics of giftedness may include:  

A. Intellectual Giftedness: Advanced reasoning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.  

B. Creative Giftedness: Originality, innovation, and unique perspectives in creative pursuits like art, music, or writing.  

C. Leadership Giftedness: Strong interpersonal skills, vision, and the ability to inspire and lead others.  

D. Academic Giftedness: Advanced knowledge or skill in specific subjects, often requiring advanced educational opportunities.  

The Gifted Movie 

Gifted (2017), directed by Marc Webb, explores the story of Mary Adler, a young girl with exceptional mathematical talent, and her uncle Frank, who becomes her guardian after her mother’s passing. The film dives deep into questions of giftedness, its origins, and the challenges it brings, especially within the family and education system. 

Questions like...is Giftedness hereditary?

The 2017 film Gifted dives into the complex world of raising a gifted child through the story of Mary Adler, a young girl with an extraordinary talent for mathematics. Raised by her uncle, Frank, in a modest Florida town, Mary’s intellectual gifts present unique challenges and opportunities as her caretakers wrestle with whether she should pursue an accelerated education or remain in a traditional school setting. The movie explores the emotional, ethical, and academic dilemmas tied to raising a gifted child, particularly as they relate to the tension between homeschooling and public schooling.

In the public school setting, Mary’s intelligence quickly sets her apart, raising questions about her ability to fit in socially while staying intellectually challenged. The public school environment, as portrayed in the film, offers resources and social opportunities but struggles to meet Mary’s advanced needs. This is a common issue for gifted children in public schools, where balancing socialization with academic advancement can be difficult. For children like Mary, traditional classrooms can stifle their potential if there aren't specialized programs or resources.

On the other hand, homeschooling presents the opportunity for a tailored curriculum that could accommodate her unique gifts. Frank initially favors a balanced life for Mary over accelerated academics, valuing her social and emotional well-being/development above the pressures and rigors of a gifted program. The film subtly addresses some benefits of homeschooling for gifted children, such as individualized learning and a more flexible pace, which allows them to pursue their passions deeply without feeling out of place. However, it also points to the isolation that can come with homeschooling, which may limit social interactions with peers, if not intentionally addressed.

Gifted raises valuable questions about what it means to raise a well-rounded, fulfilled child. It suggests that while public school can provide structure, exposure to diverse people, and resources, homeschooling can allow for a customized education that nurtures intellectual growth. Ultimately, Gifted reminds viewers that supporting a gifted child is not just about academic opportunities but also about nurturing emotional intelligence and social connections—regardless of the educational setting.

Take Away

The concept of giftedness is dynamic and can vary across cultures, contexts, and definitions provided by organizations like the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) or the World Council for Gifted and Talented Children. Identification often involves a mix of standardized tests, observations, and professional evaluations.  

It is also essential to recognize that giftedness requires appropriate challenges and support to thrive, as unrecognized or unsupported giftedness may lead to frustration, underachievement, or social-emotional struggles.

You may also be interested in "Different Approaches To Homeschooling."