This qualitative research study focused on the lived experiences of two families striving to find academic fit for their highly able children. Insight was gained regarding the academic, social-emotional and longitudinal effects that academic acceleration had on the lives of these individuals and their families beginning with pre-school. Findings include: the critical advocacy role of the parents during early childhood and the difficult decisions families face to educate their children today. Parents and educators will find evidence that success is possible through academic acceleration when the academic needs of the learner remain the focus and the long term goal.