2e 101

Welcome

Welcome to 2e 101, a free resource providing parents and educators with tools, tips, and lessons learned over ten years of 2e and gifted education.

What is twice-exceptional (2e)?

The term “twice-exceptional” or “2e” is used to describe intellectually gifted students who also have co-occurring challenges, such as neurological, social-emotional or learning differences or disabilities.

Because gifts and challenges can mask each other and interact in unexpected ways, 2e students often go unrecognized or misidentified, leading to inappropriate placements, inadequate support, and unmet needs. This can cause significant stress and surprising behaviors -- such as acting up, underachieving, or shutting down. Watch now: It's Not A Behavior Problem — It's An Identity Crisis, by Jacqui Byrne

Could My Child Be 2e?

A comprehensive evaluation by a qualified professional is considered the gold standard for identifying students’ strengths and needs. Some families may be able to access testing through their child’s school; others may arrange it privately.

Because these assessments can be costly and challenging to schedule, you may be wondering whether it’s worthwhile to seek such an evaluation for your child. The free and lower-cost tools below do not take the place of a full neuropsychological or psychoeducational evaluation, but may provide helpful information as you determine the next steps for your child.

2e Identification Tool Kit

1. Spot the signs

Free 2e Quiz for Parents

2e can present in surprising ways, making it tricky for parents and schools to identify and support 2e students’ needs. This confidential online tool is designed to support recognition of some common 2e presentations.

Take the Quiz

2. Gather data

Gifted Identification

Wondering if your child is gifted? Gifted identification programs, also known as talent searches, are designed to identify students with exceptional abilities and provide them with opportunities to further develop their talents.

Learn More

3. Find a professional

2e Community Referral Network

If your child is struggling, finding a 2e-informed professional can make all the difference. As a free resource to families, we are pleased to accept and share referrals provided by our 2e community of parents and professionals.

Find A Professional

Support 2e at Your Child’s School

Individual learning needs can be hard for schools to meet -- or even recognize! This virtual workshop series offers expert advice on how to identify, communicate and advocate for your child’s needs, with topics such as:

How to uncover helpful data points that can be used to support your child’s needs
Accommodations that really work for 2e learners
Tools and tips for effective communication with your child’s school

Learn More