Welcome to

Gifted Support Network Inc.

Supporting families with gifted children in Melbourne

Frequently Asked Questions

Parents Activities

FAQ's

Childrens Activities

Do we need an IQ test or some form of 'proof of being gifted' before we join GSN?
No, Gifted Support Network has no such requirements.

Do I have to live in the south-eastern suburbs to join GSN?
No. Over the years our network has grown and we now have members from all areas of Melbourne. Many of our events are held in the south-eastern suburbs but we often connect with families from further afield. We would be delighted to meet you and welcome you and your family to our events.  

Are there groups like yours in other areas of Melbourne/Victoria?
There are no other groups like GSN! But there is a list of Australian support groups at http://www.gifted-children.com.au/parent_support_groups

What is the best primary/secondary school for gifted children in Melbourne?
GSN does not recommend particular schools. Each child is individual and so is each school. What we do recommend is that you come to our events and ask other parents of gifted children about their school experiences. We have a wealth of information to share!

I have been advised to accelerate my child. Should I?
Many of the children in GSN have been accelerated, so coming along to one of our events and talking to other parents will give you an excellent insight into the process of acceleration. Our members are families (like yours?), so we can share our stories and experience. However, we are not registered psychologists and do not give 'expert' advice.

My child prefers the company of older children. Can I bring my 11-year-old to the Teens Games afternoon?
In a school setting, gifted children often seek out older children to socialise with as they are drawn to 'intellectual peers'. However, in a group where all the children are gifted, meeting with 'age peers' works really well. Therefore we ask you to stick to our 13+ policy for joining the Teens group activities.

Do I need to join GSN before I come to an event?
No. You are welcome to 'try before you buy'. You can also bring your  membership  form and payment to any of our events and join on the spot.

How can I access the GSN library?
The  library  is a free service offered to members, so you'll need to join first. The  library  is always brought to our seminars four times a year - you may borrow and return books there. Alternate times for borrowing and returning are made directly with our library coordinator.

What are the benefits of joining GSN?
A list of our benefits can be found on the  membership  page.

What activities does GSN run?
A list of the children's and parent's activities can be found below.
​​Children's Activities
Pre-School Playgroup - Mini Minds
Meets twice most terms
A great opportunity to allow your preschoolers time to play alongside other high powered players. Parents can exchange thoughts whilst the children enjoy each others company. Bring a rug, drinks and a snack.

See  Events  page for upcoming meets, or contact us for more information.

Primary Minds
Meets twice most terms
Many of you have been looking for other 'like minds' for your child to socialise with. This is it! A play in the park or perhaps a game of ten-pin bowling with other primary school aged children.

See  Events  page for upcoming meets, or contact us for more information.

Teens & Tweens
We have a combined event for the two groups once a term - normally a pizza night. Parents have a chance to discuss the new challenges of adolescence while the children socialise.

See  Events  page for upcoming meets, or contact us for more information.

Tweens (ages 10 - 12)
Meets twice most terms
Tweens usually get together each term to engage in an activity such as ten-pin bowling, a games afternoon or even indoor rock climbing. We also have a combined pizza night with the Teens group once a term.

See  Events  page for upcoming meets, or contact us for more information.

Teens (ages 13 and over)
Meets twice most terms
Teens usually get together each term to engage in an activity such as a games afternoon, roller skating or even indoor rock climbing. We also have a combined pizza night with the Tweens group once a term.

See  Events  page for upcoming meets, or contact us for more information.
​​Parents' Activities
Information Session
Information sessions for parents and teachers with professional guest speakers. Topics include identification, asynchronous development, acceleration, underachievement and other issues. Stay for supper after the presentation and discuss our guest speaker’s topic, as it relates to you and your children. Discounted entry to members.

See  Events  page for upcoming meets, or contact us for more information.

Coffee mornings
An opportunity for parents to get together for an informal chat and a cuppa with other parents of gifted children. Preschool children are welcome too! This function is held in a committee member's home and is free. Please bring a small plate to share.

See  Events  page for upcoming date, or contact us for more information.

Coffee and chat evenings
An opportunity for parents to get together for an informal chat and a cuppa with other parents of gifted children. This function is held in a coffee shop at your cost.

See  Events  page for upcoming dates and venues, or contact us for more information.

Resource Library
Our parent information library of books and articles is available to browse through and borrow from at talks, discussion evenings etc.
You may borrow or return a book at other times by arrangement. A $10.00 refundable deposit is required.

See  Resources page for our Library catalogue