The Queensland Association for
Gifted and Talented Children Inc.

282 Stafford Rd, Stafford, Qld 4053
Telephone: (07) 3352 4288 - Fax: (07) 3352 4388 - Email: office@qagtc.org.au

Talking to the Media

I recently spoke on radio on two occasions which is a fairly regular occurrence for those of us who advocate for the needs of gifted children. On the last occasion I thanked Gary Cislowski, President of the Queensland Council of Parents' and Citizens' Associations, for his strongly supportive comments previously broadcast. It was a relief to hear someone outside of our direct orbit who has some grasp of the complex nature of our cause.

I pointed out to Chris O'Brien (ABC Radio 612) that giftedness was a matter of concern due to low public awareness and prejudice caused by ignorance. Misinformation causes misunderstanding.

I pointed out that there are more than 40 000 gifted children in Queensland schools and that, although there has been a rise in interest over time, neglect of their educational needs is still widespread. I said that Anna Bligh should be given credit for what little attention there is to gifted children in schools today.

It was important that people hear about QAGTC and I mentioned that we are non-profit, with no regular funding grants, dependent on membership and voluntary help for survival. I explained that we are the only organisation concerned with the welfare of gifted children and fill an important community service role. The support we provide, to parents in particular, in invaluable.

I said that I counsel parents to avoid involving professionals who are unable to view the child through the 'lens of giftedness' as Linda Silverman calls it. This lens enables us to view the child from a special perspective - one that acknowledges the child's giftedness and is well-informed of all that this entails. Professionals may be schooled in their area of expertise but can be ignorant of the characteristics and needs of the gifted.

One of our active members, Carol Bubke, has also handled both radio and newspaper events in recent weeks. I want to thank Carol for her intelligent approach to the topic. She is well-informed and gives balanced advice to those who seek direction from her on issues related to giftedness.

As a result of publicity we have been able to advise many parents and provide them with information that may assist their search for satisfying futures for their children. Hopefully some of them will become members and even work with QAGTC in future so that we can continue to provide our services to the gifted community in Queensland.

Judith Hewton