When we think of gifted and highly talented children, it's easy to assume they'll naturally find their way. But behind exceptional ability often lie unique emotional, social and developmental challenges that don't simply disappear with age.

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Sameena Manasawala, Head of Gifted and Talented Education at Kaveri Gifted Education & Research Centre (KGERC), Pune. A psychologist, researcher, counsellor and mentor, Dr. Sameena has spent over 15 years working closely with gifted children and their families. Her students have grown from school to university and into their professional lives, giving her a unique perspective on why gifted individuals often need guidance throughout their journey.

Together, we explore the difference between mentoring and counselling, why both are essential, and how the right support system can help gifted children thrive—not just academically, but emotionally and socially.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why gifted and high-achieving students need mentors, even into adulthood.
• The difference between mentoring and counselling.
• Common socio-emotional challenges such as perfectionism, imposter syndrome, multipotentiality, loneliness and belonging.
• How parents can create a nurturing environment and recognise early signs that their child may need additional support.
• The role of extended family members, teachers and trusted adults as mentors.
• What parents should look for when choosing a mentor or counsellor for their child.
• How schools can build effective mentoring and counselling ecosystems to support gifted learners.

Whether you are a parent, educator, school counsellor or mentor, this conversation offers practical insights into building long-term support systems that help gifted children flourish as individuals—not just as achievers.

If you enjoyed this episode, do share it with someone who is raising, teaching or supporting a gifted child. And don't forget to follow Being Gifted for more conversations on nurturing exceptional potential.

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Follow us: @kaverigiftededucationcentre (Facebook & Instagram)✉️ Write to us: gifted.admin@kaveri.edu.in 📖 To order our book Nurturing Buddhimaan Children: A Practical Guide for Caregivers – WhatsApp 9130077122Being Gifted podcast is produced by Partners in Upbringing LLP for KGERC, hosted and supported by the KGERC team - ⁠Dr. Devasena Desai⁠ , ⁠Dr. Sameena Manaswala⁠ and ⁠Malati Kalmadi