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Twice-Exceptional (2E) Learners

“I seldom think about my limitations, and they never make me sad. Perhaps there is just a touch of yearning at times; but it is vague, like a breeze among flowers.”

~ Helen Keller

The term twice-exceptional learner (sometimes called 2E learner) is one that is often heard and far too often misunderstood. What does it mean? What do parents need to know about supporting their child’s development?

What follows here is information about 2E learners and 15 practical ways to empower them.

Twice-Exceptional (2E): The Facts

Twice-exceptional learners have co-existing special education needs—for example, giftedness combined with ADHD, or dyslexia, or a learning disability, or a hearing or visual impairment, or some other combination.

These may not be easily identified, and thus, these children may be underserved in schools—from preschool onward. One exceptionality may mask another, or children may fall through the cracks without either of their exceptionalities being appropriately addressed. As they move from primary-level programming through elementary school and onward, low grades can shadow or conceal their abilities.

Moreover, discrepancies between a child’s strengths and challenges can negatively affect how that child is perceived. For example, in some cases, kids are “not sufficiently gifted” to be eligible for specialized or gifted education programs, and also “not sufficiently struggling” for other special education provisions.

They may not “fit” with what’s available within their local school system. Furthermore, far too often, teachers and early education service providers are not adequately trained in special education or how to effectively differentiate program offerings, learning environments, or activities.

A great many schools and learning centers lack current resources or materials that address twice exceptionality or optimal services for exceptional learners.

Over the past few decades, there has been considerable research on ways to encourage diverse learners’ abilities and support their development, with studies ramping up recently due to heightened interest in neurodiversity.

What has come to light?

Here are some findings:

  • Set fair expectations.
  • Encourage children to develop their strengths.
  • Invite kids to ask questions.
  • Family matters.
  • Reinforce children’s play, including their engagement in open-ended, exploratory, interdisciplinary, and multisensory learning experiences.
  • Help children find peers who share similar interests, abilities, and disabilities, and with whom they can interact.

Most importantly, parental attunement to the individual child will help to ensure that their learning and other needs are identified. To that end, parents can become informed about possible ways to provide encouragement and support.

PRACTICAL SUGGESTIONS

Research studies on twice-exceptional learners reveal many recommendations for parents.

Here are 15 strategies parents can consider:
(Note that, in many respects, these suggestions are applicable to children across the learning spectrum.)

  1. Offer choice.
  2. Involve your child in co-creating their learning and recreational experiences.
  3. Provide ample opportunities for inquiry and reflection.
  4. Pay attention to your child’s social-emotional well-being.
  5. Check that documented education-related accommodations are …

Dr. Joanne Foster

Dr. Joanne Foster, an acclaimed author and educator, has dedicated over 35 years to gifted education and child development. With expertise in psychology and special education, her work empowers parents and educators, fostering creativity and high-level learning in children and teens. Dr. Foster has written countless articles, and several books—the most recent being Ignite Your Ideas: Creativity for Kids.

Insightful Reads For You

Girls, Giftedness, and Smart Possibilities

Girls, Giftedness, and Smart Possibilities

Gifted/high-level development among girls is the focus of this piece. Dr. Joanne Foster discusses realities, and concerns—including “dumbing down.” She offers practical approaches to support students in maximizing their abilities, and provides several helpful resources.

Home-School-Community Partnerships

Home-School-Community Partnerships

Dr. Joanne Foster emphasizes the importance of collaborative home-school-community partnerships for effective learning. She discusses the roles of students, parents, teachers, and administrators in creating a cohesive educational environment that nurtures students’ growth and development.

Navigating Fresh Starts and Transitions

Navigating Fresh Starts and Transitions

As families navigate new seasons and ventures, they encounter hopes, challenges, and the need for balance. Dr. Joanne Foster discusses the importance of optimism and embracing change, helping kids transition with confidence and self-assurance.