WICHITA, Kansas, Dec. 26, 2007 -- When you think of "at-risk" students, you probably don't think of gifted children but a local educator says they too can face serious problems if not identified at a young age. That's why she has started a Wichita preschool just for accelerated learners.

From identifying artwork, like Van Gogh to geography around the world, it quickly becomes clear that the students at ECAP Academy aren't your typical preschooler's.

"They usually have a very intense interest in something -- maybe it's dinosaurs, maybe it's space. They typically walk early, they typically talk early," said Val Weeks, director, ECAP Academy.

But another common trait of gifted children says Weeks are behavior problems, if those busy brains get bored.

"He's just one of those kids that just constantly needs to be challenged," said mom Susan Bayles.

That's why Bayles' son, Jordan, enjoys the unusual activities at the ECAP Academy.

Yoga exercises their bodies, while science experiments give their minds a workout.

Fifteen kids in all work at their own pace -- already reading, writing and doing math, from simple problems to four-digit subtraction.

For Luke Fritz, the individualized curriculum not only helps him learn as fast as he can, but in the special way he needs to.

Gifted children sometimes process information differently than other kids but given the right environment, five-year-old Luke is doing math at a third-grade level.

"All of a sudden, he was doing it and enjoying it and wanting to do these things at home just on his own, without prompting," said Jana Fritz, Luke's mom.

Because their gift is also a special need, not every child is allowed into the ECAP Academy. A test helps pinpoint that student with unique potential.

"I had a little boy who would carry blueprints around for the zoo he was going to build one day," said Weeks.

A big future is in store for these small wonders, but they are always needing the right touch for success.

The ECAP Academy is having an open house on January 10th, but if you'd like more information right now, call 618-0370 or visit their website.

Related link:
ECAP Academy