Gifted and neurodivergent children are often highly misunderstood. Gifted children, who are also neurodivergent, are housed under the term 2e or Twice Exceptional. This is a nonmedical term, but it’s helpful if you are seeking further information online. Let’s jump in!
The Neurodivergence Umbrella
Neurodivergence is not a term used in neurology or psychiatry, but it can be used in some communities online as an umbrella term for a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders (autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, learning disorders, or intellectual disabilities, or sensory processing disorder, etc.)
What is Giftedness?
Giftedness can be described as extraordinary intelligence, achievement, or creativity in the arts, sciences, mathematics, language, etc. There is no universal or medical definition for giftedness. Children who have been deemed gifted exceed academically and appear advanced for their age. Assessing for giftedness can include a review of the child’s school records and family history, intelligence testing, observation, and an in-depth interview.
Twice Exceptional (2e) Kids
Twice exceptional (2e) is the term used to describe gifted children with high potential for academic achievement, who also have one or more of the conditions mentioned under the neurodivergent umbrella. The exceptional intellectual abilities of 2e students are often masked by one or more of the neurodivergent conditions (or vice versa). This makes supporting 2e students a challenge for both parents and teachers.
Reviewing Autism Spectrum disorder (ASD) and giftedness side by side, you can see where certain areas overlap.
Autism | Giftedness |
Passionate areas of interest on one subject/game/interest | Extreme effort and enthusiasm towards one special interest academically |
Differences in how they communicate with peers or shows a decreased interest towards new or unfamiliar people | Little energy used to socialize – does not relate to peers their own age |
Preference for sameness, security, and routine | Strict rule follower |
Reactive to changes in sensory experiences like sounds, sights, touch, feel, etc. | Greater sensitivity towards sensory changes |
Academic Possibilities & Potential Setbacks
The intellectual possibilities of 2e kids can be incredible. At the same time, if they are diagnosed with autism, ADHD, or a learning disability, there may be challenges that hinder their learning.
Academic Possibilities:
- Rapid learning
- Strong memories
- Large vocabularies
- Advanced comprehension of complex concepts
- Engaged and curious in various subjects at school
Potential Academic Setbacks:
- Communication with teachers and peers
- Lack of focus if distracted
- Unwilling to engage in group tasks
- Inconsistency in their performance
- Disorganization leading to missed assignments
Approximately 2-5% of school age children in the US are thought to be gifted. However, if you believe your child may benefit from testing to identify if they may be neurodivergent and/or gifted, you can speak with your primary care provider/pediatrician or if you are in the Texas area, feel free to contact us for a consultation and more information about testing!
