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About Giftedness
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)
Learn More
Explore some of our About Giftedness pages.
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.”
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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
6. Work Collaboratively with Schools
- Strategy: Be proactive in communicating with teachers and administrators. Request Individualised Education Plans (IEPs) or Gifted Education Plans (GEPs) that integrate accommodations and enrichments.
- Why? Collaboration ensures that schools understand and meet your child’s dual needs. Research shows that consistent parental involvement improves outcomes for 2e students.
Recommended Resources:
- Parenting Gifted Kids by James Delisle (guides parents in navigating school systems and advocacy).
- Wrightslaw's special education resources: www.wrightslaw.com.
7. Practice Self-Care and Build Resilience
- Strategy: Acknowledge that parenting 2e children can be exhausting and seek ways to recharge. Find time for personal growth, mindfulness, or counselling if needed.
- Why? Studies highlight the importance of parental mental health in fostering a positive environment for children.
Recommended Resources:
- The Self-Driven Child by William Stixrud and Ned Johnson (provides strategies for reducing parental stress while empowering children).
- Parenting webinars by the Gifted Development Center: www.gifteddevelopment.com.
By combining these strategies with reliable resources, parents can provide their 2e children with the understanding, encouragement, and tools they need to thrive both academically and emotionally. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress, growth, and creating an environment where your child’s unique potential can flourish.