If you were to search for a precious gem, where would you look? You might find some on the surface but if you want to find a large amount, you have to dig. Just like precious stones, some of your children’s gifts and talents will be seen on the surface but there will be large pockets of these gems in the earth. We have to study the landscape, assess were to dig, dig, make adjustments and re-dig.

Study the landscape. Study your child. What do they like to do when they are by themselves? Do they like to draw, play sports, read, etc. Do they like to be by themselves or in a group? What makes their eyes light up?

Assess where to dig. You have found what they like to do now is opportunity to figure out how to develop that talent. Is there a book you can buy and read with them? Is there a class they can take or you can take together? Do you know someone they can talk to or who will mentor them in that talent?

Dig. Once you have come up with a plan, it is time to put it into action.

Make adjustments. Was the class enjoyable? If not was it because of the teacher or the material? Would a different class or teacher have the same results? Did you dig in the wrong place? Would your child like to do something different? It is good to have a couple of people get together and brainstorm with you and the child if possible to get a different perspective.

Re-dig. It is ok to start over again. We have to be someone special to get it right the first time. For most people we will have to restart several times.