But why is it important to develop giftedness? Is it merely for self-accomplishment, fulfillment, or fame?

To start with, for giftedness to develop, everyone concerned has a role to play. As parents, we have an important responsibility because gifted children, much like other children, have both positive and negative behavioral traits. They may be fast learners but they may also be impatient and insist on doing things their own way; or they may be too inquisitive to the point of being embarrassing or exhausting.

We need to be attuned to our children’s unique needs, ideas and concerns. As much as practicable, we should give them a suitable home environment that will allow them to explore and expand their horizons and at the same time develop their inner strength and character, taking care not to tolerate boastful behavior or self-centeredness.

Sometimes, we unwittingly condone or encourage their bad manners, like disrespect for elders or being too bossy, because we mistake them for being assertive or cute. It is our part to give our young children basic guidelines in using their gift, which is not only solely for personal ends but for a bigger and higher purpose. Moreover, it might do well to remind ourselves that at the end of the road, it is not solely the giftedness or the overall achievements of our children that would truly matter, but the totality of their development as a person.

In the United States, schools have a "Talented and Gifted section," commonly called TAG, which caters to more advanced students. Interestingly, a number of Fil-Am or expatriate Filipino children qualify to the said elite class. In the Philippines, however, not many schools have facilities or training preparation for highly gifted children, which is why some parents have opted for home schooling.

Sometimes, it is the pediatrician who first notices a young child’s gifted potential. The family doctor or pediatrician can help parents in procuring appropriate diagnostic evaluation, and may help families cope with the psycho-emotional problems often associated with raising gifted children.

Some organizations also help support the development of gifted children. The Philippine Association for the Gifted (PAG) is the country’s prime organization for the identification and development of gifted children. It consists of educators, development psychiatrists, doctors, parents, and interested individuals and offers diagnostic assessment, enrichment workshops, and psycho-emotional support seminars.

More importantly, community assistance is vital in promoting the development of gifted children. Aren’t we all amazed by manifestations of excellence in various fields: the logic and numerical ability of a math wizard, the tonal perception and dexterity of a piano prodigy, or the powerful analysis and creative strategies of a chess athlete?

To be fully developed, however, innate talent has to be nurtured and ultimately applied. The cooperation of all sectors including government, business establishments, civic organizations, and concerned individuals is crucial to help transform gifted children into productive and creative members of society. Giftedness has to be provided with the environment and support it needs to develop and realize its value to the child and society, lest this precious resource go to waste.

After all, the purpose of giftedness is not merely to provide young people with opportunities for maximum growth and fulfillment, but to increase society’s reservoir of persons who will help contribute to the development of new products, technology, ideas, and other areas of culture and knowledge. The works of scientists, authors, artists, and leaders provide benefit for the advancement of mankind.

In the grand scheme of things, God created gifted children to fill a special societal need.