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Specialized Testing for **Twice Exceptional** Children

The Center for CBT offers a unique, specialized testing program specifically designed for children who are twice exceptional (2e), ensuring that their unique strengths and challenges are thoroughly understood. Our comprehensive assessments are designed to support the growth and success of gifted children with learning differences. 

What is a twice exceptional (2e) child?

A twice exceptional (2e) child is one who possesses both:

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1. High abilities or talents in one or more areas 

2. One or more learning disabilities or developmental challenges

 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

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  • High Abilities or Talents: 2e children often exhibit advanced skills or understanding in specific areas. This can include exceptional intellectual abilities, advanced vocabulary, creativity, problem-solving skills, strong memory for specific interests, or talents in areas like art, music, or leadership.

  • Learning Disabilities or Developmental Challenges: Alongside their high abilities, 2e children may have learning disabilities such as dyslexia, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety disorders, or other cognitive, emotional, or behavioral challenges. These disabilities can impact their ability to perform in certain academic areas, manage social interactions, or cope with everyday tasks.​​

What are some signs my child might be twice exceptional?

Here are some signs that your child might be twice exceptional (2e):

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  • Asynchronous Development: A hallmark of 2e children is their asynchronous development, meaning their intellectual, emotional, and physical development may not progress at the same rate. For example, they may:

    • Read at an advanced level but struggle with writing mechanics.

    • Excel in complex problem-solving or creative thinking but have difficulties with basic arithmetic or memorization.

    • Use a sophisticated vocabulary for their age but struggle with writing or spelling.

    • Exhibit advanced abilities in certain domains while being significantly below age level in others.

  • Social/Emotional Difficulties: Some 2e children might experience heightened emotional or sensory sensitivities, difficulty with social skills, perfectionism, high energy levels, and/or resistance to routine.

  • Not Reaching Full Academic Potential: A 2e child’s disabilities and gifts can mask each other, leading to misidentification or under-identification of either the strengths or the challenges. A 2e child might perform at grade level, hiding their giftedness, or they might perform poorly, obscuring their potential.

  • Unique Learning Needs: 2e children require educational strategies that both challenge their advanced abilities and provide support for their disabilities. Without specialized educational approaches, some 2e children will show inconsistent school performance and significant discrepancies in testing between different academic subjects.

What are the benefits of getting my child tested through the Center for CBT's twice exceptional (2e) testing program? 

The dual exceptionalities of a 2e child can sometimes mask each other, making it difficult for someone who is not a true 2e expert to identify either the giftedness or the disabilities.  If you think your child might be twice exceptional, getting an evaluation from one of our experts in 2e children (as opposed to going to someone who just specializes in ADHD or Learning Disorder or ASD testing) is critical for several reasons:

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  • Accurate Identification and Diagnosis: 2e children have complex profiles where high abilities can mask disabilities, and vice versa. Our 2e specialists can accurately identify both the areas of giftedness and the learning or developmental challenges, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of your child's needs.

  • Specialized Assessment Tools: Our experts in 2e are familiar with the most appropriate and sensitive assessment tools for this population. We know how to interpret results in the context of asynchronous development and dual exceptionalities, which can lead to a more accurate diagnosis.

  • Customized Recommendations: Our expertise in 2e allows us to provide tailored recommendations that address both your child's strengths and weaknesses. This might include specific educational strategies, therapeutic interventions, and accommodations that are most effective for 2e children.

    • Collaboration with Educators: With extensive experience working with schools/educators, we help develop and advocate for appropriate individualized education plans (IEPs) or 504 plans, ensuring your child's needs are met in the educational setting.

    • Support for Families: Families of 2e children often need guidance and support to navigate the complexities of raising a child with dual exceptionalities. Our specialists provide resources, strategies, and emotional support to help families understand and advocate for their child's needs.

  • Long-Term Success: Proper identification and support from an early age can significantly impact a 2e child's long-term academic and personal success. An expert evaluation can set the foundation for interventions that help your child thrive and reach their full potential.

 

The psychologists within our 2e specialty testing program have the expertise to provide you with an extremely thorough and nuanced evaluation, leading to more effective support and interventions for your child's unique needs. 

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