About culturally diverse giftedness--

* Involve your children in organizations that are both diverse and achievement-oriented.

* Let your child attend and participate in cultural events.

* Visit historically Black colleges and universities so that your child can see successful diverse students in an academic setting; this image also shows that there is life after K-12 schooling.

* If possible, live in a diverse community.

* Read books with your child about culturally diverse students who are gifted (e.g., Maizon at Blue Hill; Fast Talk on a Slow Track; Yolanda's Genius; Don't Say Ain't; A Hope in the Unseen). This helps children to not feel alone and to find ways to cope with their concerns. Similarly, watch movies that contain positive images of diverse gifted students (e.g., Finding Forrester).

* Read books with your children about characters who faced negative pressures, but succeeded (e.g., I Wish I Were a Buttery; 213 Valentines," Amazing Grace; White Socks Only; Yang the Youngest and His Terrible Ear; Another Way to Dance).

* Share personal experiences with your child about how you overcame social injustices. Your objective is to instill hope in your child.

* Talk to your child about the true meaning of friendship. Many students are so eager to have companionship that they affiliate with classmates without regard to their character, integrity, and goals.

* Talk with your child about being assertive at initiating discussions with classmates.