Who Is Twice-Exceptional

Some children are highly gifted in areas such as math, writing or music. Then there are those with challenges that affect learning: They could have ADHD, dyslexia or dyscalculia, or perhaps they’re autistic or have sensory processing issues. But there are also kids who fit both categories. They’re called twice-exceptional, or 2e, which means that they have exceptional ability and disability. They are gifted in some way but they also face learning or developmental challenges.

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When 2e kids are identified and supported, they can do better in school and have higher self-esteem. If parents are well informed about what’s going on with the kid, if the teachers really understand that this is a bright kid who just has these one or two areas of weakness, it can affect the way the teachers talk to the kid, the way they teach the kid.

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Another way to help 2e kids is to let them know it will get easier. The years from kindergarten through 12th grade are going to be the hardest years in the Twice-Exceptional's lives because they are required to take all the core subjects. But when they head off to college, they can select the courses in their areas of strength. After that, they can choose careers that are suited to their strengths again and really shine there as well.

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