Raising Twice Exceptional(2e) Children

Raising 2e (twice-exceptional) children can be both rewarding and challenging, as parents must navigate their children's asynchronous development, complex needs, and unique strengths. Below are strategies and research-based resources to help parents create a supportive environment:

1. Understand Your Child's 2e Profile

• Strategy: Invest in a comprehensive evaluation by a professional experienced in both giftedness and neurodiversity. This helps clarify your child’s strengths, challenges, and specific needs.
• Why? Research highlights that accurate identification of 2e traits is critical to providing appropriate interventions and enrichment opportunities. Without this, children often fall through the cracks.

Recommended Resources:

• Books:
  • Misdiagnosis and Dual Diagnoses of Gifted Children and Adults by Dr. James Webb et al. (addresses misdiagnoses in 2e children).
  • The Power of Neurodiversity by Dr. Thomas Armstrong (provides a positive framework for embracing neurodiversity).
• Assessment Providers: Seek out professionals who specialise in both gifted and learning differences, such as educational psychologists or neuropsychologists.

2. Advocate for a Strength-Based Approach

• Strategy: Work with schools and support networks to focus on developing your child’s strengths while accommodating their challenges. Highlight their giftedness to prevent a deficit-focused approach.
• Why? Research by Susan Baum and others shows that strength-based approaches improve engagement, reduce frustration, and promote well-being in 2e children.

Recommended Resources:

• To Be Gifted and Learning Disabled by Susan Baum, Ph.D., et al. (provides practical advice on addressing dual exceptionalities).
• Articles on SENG (Supporting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted): www.sengifted.org.

3. Create a Supportive Home Environment

• Strategy: Establish routines, clear expectations, and spaces that balance structure with flexibility. Incorporate tools for emotional regulation (e.g., mindfulness apps) and executive functioning aids (e.g., visual schedules or checklists).
• Why? Research indicates that 2e children thrive when provided with stability, predictable routines, and opportunities for creative expression.

Recommended Resources:

• Smart but Scattered by Peg Dawson and Richard Guare (excellent for executive functioning skills).
• Apps like Headspace for Kids (mindfulness) or Forest (focus and time management)

4. Prioritise Social and Emotional Development

• Strategy: Teach self-advocacy skills, emotional regulation, and social interaction strategies. Encourage your child to build on their interests to connect with like-minded peers.
• Why? Studies show that emotional intelligence and social connections are critical for 2e children, who often feel "different" or misunderstood.

Recommended Resources:

• The Whole-Brain Child by Dr. Daniel Siegel and Dr. Tina Payne Bryson (focuses on emotional and neurological development).
• Local or online gifted organisations such as Mensa’s youth programs or local gifted education associations.

5. Build a Network of Support

• Strategy: Connect with other parents, educators, and professionals who understand the 2e experience. This provides a community of empathy and practical advice.
• Why? Research suggests that parents of 2e children often feel isolated. A strong support network reduces stress and empowers parents with shared knowledge.

Recommended Resources:

• Facebook Groups: Search for groups like “Parents of Twice-Exceptional Children.”
• National and State Gifted Associations:
  • Gifted WA: www.giftedwa.org.au
  • Australian Association for the Education of the Gifted and Talented (AAEGT): www.aaegt.net.au