When people think of gifted children, they often imagine high IQ scores, advanced problem-solving, or exceptional creativity. But for some gifted kids, their intellectual capabilities coexist with learning differences, like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
This combination is known as twice gifted ADHD or twice exceptionality, and it presents both strengths and challenges for children, parents, and educators. This blog will break down how to identify twice exceptional children and how to best support their unique learning needs.
What Does Twice Gifted ADHD Mean?
Twice exceptional (sometimes shortened to 2e) describes gifted students who also have a learning or behavioural disability/disorder, such as ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, or other special needs. In the case of twice gifted ADHD, a child often shows high levels of intelligence alongside ADHD symptoms like impulsivity, lack of focus, and challenges with time management.
Twice exceptional children may perform far above same-age peers in some areas while struggling with basic grade-level tasks in others. This asynchronous development makes it harder for schools and parents to identify and support a child’s giftedness and assist each child to reach their full potential for learning.
Identifying Twice Exceptional Children
The traits of twice exceptional kids often include:
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High IQ scores and strong reasoning abilities.
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Creativity and unique problem-solving skills.
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A hard time with impulse control, social interactions, and time management.
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Difficulty with school performance, despite advanced thinking.
Some may excel in high-level math concepts, while struggling with basic writing or organization, or vice versa. Others may have social challenges, finding it hard to navigate social situations with classmates.
The Challenges of Twice Gifted ADHD
For many exceptional kids, the overlap between ADHD symptoms and giftedness leads to misdiagnosis or misunderstanding rather than recognition of their unique abilities.
In both public schools and private schools, teachers may expect gifted learners to excel across the board. However, their academic achievement may appear inconsistent. This mismatch often frustrates both the child and their educators.
Steps to Supporting Twice Exceptional Kids
Parents and educators of twice exceptional children often face big questions: What’s the best way to meet both intellectual and emotional needs? How do we nurture a child’s strengths while also addressing learning challenges? And how can school systems adapt to better serve twice exceptional students?
The first step is usually a thorough psychoeducational evaluation. Assessing cognitive abilities, processing speed, working memory, and a child’s behaviour helps clarify both giftedness and the presence of ADHD or other learning differences. With this understanding, tailored support strategies can be put in place.
After Diagnosis: Supports for Home and School
Gifted education through gifted programs are essential to motivate twice exceptional students and provide the challenge their high intelligence requires. At the same time, school accommodations and/or modifications for ADHD, such as extended time on tests, organizational support, or help with time management, can make learning more accessible.
Counselling may also play an important role, giving students the tools to strengthen social skills and build resilience. Collaboration between parents and educators is key, ensuring that learning experiences not only address challenges but also build on a child’s strengths.
Recognition Matters
When twice exceptional kids go unrecognized, they may develop low self-esteem, experience mood disorders, or disengage from school. But with the right supports, twice exceptional individuals can thrive at each stage of life – from elementary school to high school and even into adulthood.
At Edcommodate, we specialize in psychoeducational assessments and giftedness assessments to help families better understand their learning needs. If you suspect your child may be twice exceptional, we can help you take the next step toward clarity and support. Contact us today to inquire about an assessment.