Twice Exceptional (2E) Children
Twice-exceptional (2e) gifted children are children who have exceptional intellectual abilities or talents, but who also have one or more learning challenges, disabilities, or disorders. These children often require unique support and understanding to help them achieve their full potential.
What is Twice-Exceptional?
Twice-exceptional children are gifted in one or more areas but also have a learning disability or challenge. This can manifest in a variety of ways, including ADHD, dyslexia, sensory processing disorder, and autism spectrum disorder. Because these children have exceptional abilities, their learning challenges are often overlooked or misunderstood.
How to Identify Twice-Exceptional Children?
Twice-exceptional children may display a combination of the following characteristics:
Advanced cognitive ability in one or more areas such as math, science, or the arts.
Difficulty with social skills or emotional regulation.
Poor executive function skills, including organization, planning, and time management.
Inconsistent academic performance or a discrepancy between ability and performance.
Attention deficits, hyperactivity, or distractibility.
Difficulty with reading, writing, or math skills.
How to Support Twice-Exceptional Children?
Adults can support their twice-exceptional children by:
Understanding their child’s strengths and weaknesses, and developing an individualized education plan that addresses both.
Working with teachers and specialists to ensure that their child receives appropriate accommodations and modifications in the classroom.
Encouraging their child’s interests and passions, and providing opportunities for them to explore and develop their talents.
Teaching their child effective coping strategies to manage their learning challenges, such as time management and organizational skills.
Helping their child develop social and emotional skills, such as problem-solving, empathy, and self-regulation.
Twice-exceptional children have the potential to make significant contributions to society, but they often face unique challenges that can hinder their success. Without appropriate support and understanding, these children may struggle in school, suffer from low self-esteem, and experience anxiety or depression. By providing tailored support and accommodations, parents can help their 2e gifted children reach their full potential and thrive.