Nurturing Curiosity, Understanding Strengths, Supporting Potential
Gifted children are often described as curious, intense, quick to learn, and full of ideas. But giftedness is not always straightforward — some gifted children struggle in school, experience social and emotional difficulties, or have co-occurring learning challenges that make it hard for their true abilities to shine.
A giftedness assessment in Calgary with Dr. Kincade can help identify your child's cognitive profile in detail, opening the door to the right educational opportunities and support — whether that means a GATE program application, Westmount Charter School admission, or simply a better understanding of your child's unique mind.
Giftedness refers to significantly advanced cognitive abilities relative to same-age peers. Gifted children often demonstrate some of the following characteristics:
Advanced language development and vocabulary from an early age
Superior reasoning and problem-solving abilities
Intense intellectual curiosity and love of learning
Rapid mastery of new concepts, well ahead of peers
Ability to sustain focus on topics of deep interest for extended periods
Strong creative, artistic, or musical abilities
It is entirely possible for a gifted child to also have ADHD, a learning disability, or other challenges — a profile known as twice-exceptionality. A child's giftedness can mask their difficulties, and their difficulties can mask their giftedness. Without a comprehensive assessment, twice-exceptional children are often misunderstood and underserved. Dr. Kincade's assessments identify both sides of the picture, ensuring your child receives appropriate support and the right level of challenge.
Gifted children can also experience unique emotional and social challenges. Their heightened sensitivity and perceptiveness can make them more vulnerable to anxiety or emotional difficulties. Their intensity and high standards for themselves and others can create frustration, perfectionism, and difficulty connecting with same-age peers.
Understanding the full picture — cognitive strengths alongside social and emotional functioning — is an important part of any giftedness assessment at Evolve.
A giftedness assessment is required for admission to many of Calgary's gifted programs and specialized schools. Dr. Kincade is experienced with the specific requirements of:
GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) programs through the Calgary Board of Education — applications typically due in February
Westmount Charter School — Elementary campus (K–4) and Mid-High campus (Grade 5–12)
Private school admissions including Calgary Academy, Foothills Academy, and Rundle Academy
Book early. Demand for gifted assessments in Calgary is highest in the fall. If you are close to a deadline, please contact us directly and we will do our best to accommodate you.
Whether you're applying for GATE, Westmount, or simply want a fuller picture of your child's abilities, we'd be glad to help.
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