<p>Parenting an exceptionally high IQ child seems as difficult as raising a child with any extreme learning difference. Typical educational routes will not work, other people don’t really understand the unique challenges, and creativity is needed to find solutions which will prevent the child from withering. Parents must search for what seems best for their child and I see that openness as a sign of great love. But there are no guarantees to any parent that our choices are always 100% right. I support all of you who are making the best, if difficult, choices for your children–your love will be appreciated by your kids, even if they should experience some downs with the ups along their road.</p>
<p>There are not many easy answers to raising kids who are outliers, and I doubt keeping to a traditional high school path always works best for every single one. Keeping a bored or misunderstood student in a typical high school solely to stay among age peers may work out in some cases, but in many schools teens can be harsh to those who are extremely different. With such a kid, a college may be the most comfortable social environment. But there may be no environment that is perfect for all aspects of his/her growth. I commend each parent who faces this challenge for their child with thoughtfulness and love, no matter what solution you choose. It’s hard enough to raise a kid with special needs–and yet there are always strangers who will not understand.</p>