Many of us who have long had a passion for SENG began our journey through the guided discussion groups for parents of the gifted. Parents of bright children often feel alienated, confused, overwhelmed, and frustrated. These discussion groups become a haven, a place to find support from other parents experiencing similar challenges, and for sharing “parenting recipes.” Through interaction with trained leaders and the use of print material, parents meet weekly to discuss such topics as motivation, discipline, stress, depression, peer relations and sibling rivalry. Parent evaluations indicate, “I do not feel so alone.” “The class and book have been a life saver.” “I can’t think of any way I would rather have spent my Tuesday evenings.” One parent summarizes, “This has been ten weeks of positive reinforcement ending in a closer family . . a happier, more well-adjusted student. . a more relaxed and secure parent.” If you’d like to learn more about these groups, read SENG-Model Parent Support Groups in the SENG library.

In May of 2004, Arlene DeVries had served on the SENG Board for four years, two of them as President. She had facilitated over 55 SENG-Model groups, and was the co-author of Gifted Parent Groups: The SENG Model.