Spinning on that dizzy edge

Yay for smartypantses! I would encourage you to advocate for J. as strongly and proudly as you can. Get him into the right programs. Get him the right teachers. Have him tested at the right times. Don't assume his teachers will automatically take the lead on making sure he gets a top notch education. (Of course, don't be a stuck up jerk either.)

"Early intervention" is the term used for special needs (i.e. below average) kids and it's been proven _essential_ in helping them meet their full potential, by beginning targeted lessons in preschool or even earlier. Why would the case with above-average kids be any different? J. should always be given the education that is best for HIM at every point in time.

Sorry if I sound like a broken record, but it's had a huge impact on my life. My mom worked tirelessly, having me tested, getting me into the best programs and best schools, talking her way into scholarships for me, because she KNEW there is nothing more valuable than a great education. She wasn't able to give me a lot of other things, and there were definitely sacrifices made to my education, but it was totally worth it.

Clearly J. is just at the point where his abilities are starting to shine through. It's probably a bit early for any specific testing, I think that is usually done around age 5? But if the subject of skipping grades ever comes up, I say don't even hesitate. Go for it, you'll be glad.