Supporting Twice- Exceptional Children: Nurturing Strengths While Navigating Challenges (Supporting Gifted Learners)

Twice-exceptional learners are among the most overlooked children in American education. Gifted and also navigating learning, social, emotional, or developmental challenges, these children sit at a paradox that traditional schools struggle to hold: their gifts can mask their challenges, and their challenges can mask their gifts. Too often, they receive neither the challenge they need nor the support they deserve.A compassionate, practical guide for parents and educators alike. Drawing on more than two decades in public education — including recognition as Arizona Gifted Teacher of the Year and service as President of Supporting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG) — Adam C. Laningham offers a clear framework for understanding and supporting 2e learners. Grounded in a strengths-based philosophy, aligned with NAGC standards, and written in the voice of someone who has sat in the meetings, walked through the advocacy battles, and seen what happens when the adults around a child finally get it right.Inside, you'll find:A clear explanation of twice-exceptionality and why it is so consistently missedA parallel Parent Lens and Educator Lens in every chapter, with case studies and reflection promptsPractical strategies for advocacy, collaboration, and sustaining yourself for the long work aheadStrengths-based tools educators can apply immediately in the classroomGuidance for protecting emotional well-being, identity, and access to challengeA Standards Alignment and Educator Facilitator Guide for book studies, PLCs, and professional learningFor parents, this book offers validation, language, and actionable guidance — the reassurance that you are not imagining it, you are not alone, and you have more power than you realize.For educators, it offers insight into 2e profiles, strategies for maintaining rigor alongside support, and tools for building real partnership with families.Above all, this book affirms a truth that is too often lost in systems, meetings, and interventions: twice-exceptional learners are gifted first — capable, complex, and fully deserving of being seen. When strengths are honored and challenges are supported with intention, they can thrive academically, emotionally, and in who they become. A companion to Understanding, Supporting, & Advocating for Your Gifted Child — together forming the most complete picture available of these remarkable learners. Read more