Twice Exceptional Kids (2e): A Guide for Parents and Caregivers

Raising a child with dual exceptionalities—being both gifted and having a learning challenge—can be an emotional and complex experience for parents and caregivers. These children, often referred to as "twice exceptional" or "2e," exhibit both strengths and difficulties that can sometimes be difficult to understand. But with the right support, parents and caregivers can help 2e children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. In this guide, we'll explore what it means to be twice exceptional, how to identify and support these children, and how to navigate their educational needs.

What Does “Twice Exceptional” Mean?

A child who is "twice exceptional" (2e) has been identified as both gifted and uniquely challenged by a learning difference, such as a learning disability (LD) or a developmental disorder, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) according to a 2022 study published in Neurobiology in Learning & Memory. Giftedness in these children may include high intellectual ability, creativity, or advanced problem-solving skills. However, these same children may also struggle with academic or social challenges, making their needs more complex to recognize, resulting in many of these children not getting their needs adequately met.  

The term "twice exceptional" highlights that both aspects of the child’s abilities should be considered equally important, and that a one-size-fits-all approach to education or support is not always effective. Rather, a combination of gifted education and specialized support for the learning difference is needed, with early identification and intervention. 

What Are Signs and Traits of Twice Exceptional Kids?

Identifying a 2e child can be tricky since their giftedness might mask their challenges or vice versa. Some common signs and traits of twice-exceptional kids include:

• High intellectual ability: They may excel in areas like math, reading, or creative thinking.
• Inconsistent performance: They may show academic brilliance in some subjects while struggling significantly in other areas. 
• Social difficulties: They may experience trouble with social interactions or have difficulties understanding social cues, often associated with autism or other social learning challenges.
• Emotional sensitivity: Many 2e children are emotionally intense or more sensitive to criticism, frustration, or failure.
• Perfectionism: Their desire to succeed can lead to frustration if they cannot meet their own high standards, particularly when faced with tasks that are difficult for them.
• Unusual learning patterns: Some 2e children may be able to grasp complex ideas quickly but struggle with basic skills, like reading or writing.

While these traits vary from child to child, they offer important cues to parents and educators about how best to understand and support them.

What Are Challenges for Twice Exceptional Kids?

Twice-exceptional children face a unique set of challenges, which may include:

Underperformance in School

Despite their intellectual strengths, 2e children often struggle with grade-level tasks or standard classroom expectations due to their learning disabilities. This may lead to a mismatch between their cognitive abilities and academic performance, causing frustration and feelings of inadequacy.

Social and Emotional Struggles

Because of their learning challenges, 2e children may have difficulty fitting in with peers, leading to feelings of social isolation. In contrast, their giftedness can make it difficult for them to relate to children their age, as they may think and process information differently.

Misunderstanding by Educators

Teachers may mistakenly label 2e children as "lazy," "difficult," or "unmotivated," because they struggle in some areas, despite excelling in others. Without proper support or understanding, these children may not receive the accommodations they need to succeed.

Co-occurring Conditions

Many 2e children may also face challenges such as ADHD, autism, anxiety, or depression, which can further compound their learning and emotional well-being. They may also struggle with heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli. These conditions, combined with their giftedness, can make their educational and social needs even more complex.  

How Do You Identify Twice Exceptional Kids?

Identifying a child as twice exceptional requires careful observation, assessment, and collaboration between parents, teachers, and specialists. Here’s how to identify a 2e child:

Assessment by Professionals

Psychologists or educational specialists can assess the child for both giftedness and learning challenges by performing neuropsychological assessments. Standardized IQ tests can identify giftedness, while evaluations for learning disabilities or developmental disorders can pinpoint areas of difficulty.

Reviewing Educational History

A comprehensive review of a child’s academic record can highlight strengths and weaknesses in different areas. A gifted child might perform exceptionally in one subject but struggle in another, which could indicate a learning difference.

Observing Behavioral Patterns

Parents and teachers should look for inconsistencies in behavior or performance that suggest the presence of both strengths and challenges. For example, a child who excels in math but struggles with writing might be exhibiting characteristics of a 2e student.

Collaboration with Teachers

Parents and teachers should communicate regularly to discuss the child's progress and challenges. This collaboration helps ensure the child’s needs are being met and that both strengths and challenges are recognized.

How Do You Support Twice Exceptional Kids?

Supporting a 2e child requires a multifaceted approach that recognizes their exceptional capabilities, acknowledges their gifted qualities, as well as presenting challenges. 

Here are some strategies for parents and caregivers:

Parenting Advice and Emotional Support:

• Encourage their strengths: Emphasize your child’s strengths, whether it's their creativity, critical thinking, or problem-solving abilities. Help them build self-confidence by fostering areas they excel. Also, support your child in becoming curious together regarding what lights them up or what they find interesting.
• Promote and model emotional and social skills: 2e children may need extra help understanding emotions and social cues. You can support them by modeling emotional regulation and teaching emotional and social skill building.
• Provide a structured environment: Consistent routines and clear expectations can help 2e children feel safe and secure. Structure helps manage anxiety and provides a sense of control.
• Validate their feelings: Recognize and validate the frustrations that often accompany being twice exceptional. Support them through challenges and celebrate their successes, no matter how small.

School Advice:

• Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan: 2e children often need specialized support in school. Work with your child’s school to address your child’s unique needs by assessing their need for an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 plan to ensure they receive accommodations for their learning differences. These plans may include extended time on tests, alternative assessments, or tailored instructional strategies.
• Encourage collaboration with teachers: Regular communication with teachers can help ensure that the child’s strengths and challenges are addressed in the classroom. Teachers can modify instruction to meet the child's individual needs.
• Gifted education: Many 2e children can benefit from programs designed for gifted students. These programs provide opportunities for enrichment and challenge that align with their intellectual strengths.

Resources for 2e Families

Supporting a twice-exceptional child can be a long journey, and there are many organizations and resources to guide you along the way:

• National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC): Offers information on gifted education, including how to identify and support 2e children.
• The Twice Exceptional Children’s Association (TECA): Provides resources, advocacy, and community support for families with 2e children.

When Handspring Might be Right for You

If you are the parent or caregiver of a twice-exceptional child and feel overwhelmed, Handspring Health can help. Our licensed therapists specialize in supporting children with unique learning needs, including 2e students, as well as in parenting support. We can help you navigate the challenges and joys of raising a twice-exceptional child, and work with your family to create strategies that foster emotional, social, and academic success.

Schedule a free consultation with one of our experts to learn more about how Handspring can assist you in supporting your child’s unique needs. Click here to schedule a consultation.