Twice Exceptional Students are Just That…Exceptional
Twice Exceptional (or “2e”) is the term used to describe students that have been diagnosed as intellectually gifted, as well as with one or more learning differences. Because their gifts and disabilities often mask one another, twice exceptional students are among the least identified groups in schools.
Twice Exceptional (or “2e”) is the term used to describe students that have been diagnosed as intellectually gifted, as well as with one or more learning differences. Because their gifts and disabilities often mask one another, twice exceptional students are among the least identified groups in schools.
This can cause great concern for families as they work tirelessly to guide their children through their schooling years. One of our current PacPrep families came to us because they felt as though they exhausted their options. Other schools either isolated their daughter’s learning difference, overemphasized her strong points, an/or brushed off other areas of great concern. They came to us as their daughter was entering fourth grade, bringing up notable past math class experiences where she was unfairly judged according to her inability to multiply. She is now in her second year of working with PacPrep. As a fifth grader, she brings her strong aptitude for problem-solving to each math lesson while also leveraging specific tools when multiplying.
2e students learn and process information differently than their peers, and often require additional processing time. Tracking minute details can be cumbersome to them as there not only is a lot of information to digest, but also to process in real time. Teachers at PacPrep thoughtfully guide their students through customized, standards-based lessons. They structure the lessons around the individual student’s pace, being mindful to both slow down and allow processing time, as well as keep a consistent and engaging tempo conductive for optimal learning. For students that are twice exceptional, the approach is tailored even further to target instruction specifically around a student’s strengths.
Let’s digest this a bit. We have a middle schooler that finds writing to be an absolute bore. And you know what? That’s okay! It’s our job to allow authentic feelings to be welcomed while also ensuring students are given opportunities to learn and grow. His English teacher is very aware of the feelings he experiences when asked to write so she creatively implores other tech tools to engage him in writing skills. Two weeks ago, it was through Jamboard, a tool through Google Suite. The student was responding to reading, but instead of writing a full paragraph in a Google Doc, he utilized the sticky notes on Jamboard. This seemingly simple strategy actually allowed the student to lead with his ability to respond to reading while the format of the response could be tailored accordingly.
Right around now is when I typically get the question, “That’s great, but what about my child being able to complete work at their grade level?”
My reply to families is typically the same, and along the lines of, “I absolutely hear your concern, and I can assure you it’s of the utmost importance for us to support [Child] with academics. Before we can introduce less enjoyable content, we first need to establish a safe, supportive learning environment that speaks to their needs.” The goal is to provide the space for students to come as they are. Strengths, limitations, interests, and goals are all welcome as we work toward crafting a school experience that is positive and conducive to learning.
As we work toward building lessons that are conducive to individual needs, we also tap our wonderful experts to support families. Many parents of twice exceptional kids share that their children can struggle with peer relationships. Because of their unique gifts and challenges, it’s important to help students holistically. Several PacPrep students receive virtual tailored support, enrichment and social opportunities from Sam Young, MEd through Young Scholars Academy. YSA is cultivating a village for 2e kids to feel seen, connected, and celebrated.
For students in more traditional schools, Educational Therapists and Advocates such as Cynthia Z. Hansen, Ed.D can be crucial for families navigating a new diagnosis or issues in school. Cynthia is fiercely in a family’s corner, creatively navigating the academic and social experiences alongside the families she works with. With the right support, twice exceptional students can establish and maintain meaningful connections with their peers.
Lastly, 2e kids can often be misdiagnosed and misunderstood due to the complexity of their special gifts and challenges. Parents can arm themselves with information from trusted resources like ChildNEXUS, which hosts a podcast featuring a variety of experts on topics related to learning and emotional challenges, like Understanding the Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Child.
Please complete the contact form on Cynthia Z Hansen’s website to get in touch.
Browse some of the classes, camps, and coaching offered by Sam Young by reviewing the Young Scholars Academy.
Read more about ChildNEXUS and their resources to support families and professionals.