Lots of people don't like the term "gifted." Some dislike it because they believe it's an elitist term. To them, all children are gifted. (Michael Thompson has an answer to the "All Children Are Gifted" view.) Others dislike the term because they believe children who are given this label can become conceited. For this reason, many parents are hesitant to tell their children they are gifted. They struggle with the question of whether or not gifted children should be told they are gifted.

Some people dislike the term "gifted" because they don't believe that it is an accurate description of these children and that the term actually can prevent them from getting the kinds of academic services they need. They prefer the term "high ability." This term seems to be gaining ground. It can be seen more and more in schools, in articles about gifted kids, and even in laws.

I'm not happy with the term "high ability" because it puts the focus on what these children can do and not on who they are. Yes, they do have advanced abilities, but what about the emotional sensitivities? What about the other intensities found in so many gifted children? It may be tempting to say that the emotional life of children is not the responsibility of the school. However, that is not true. If it were true, schools would not be so concerned about self-esteem issues of children. What about the other gifted characteristics so many of these children share? I fear that the focus on ability would make the misdiagnosis of gifted children even more common than it already is.

Poll: Which term do you prefer? Gifted or high ability?

• Gifted
• High Ability
• Neither
• Do you have a suggestion for a term to use? Let us know!

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