Twice Exceptional

Connectivity and White Matter

• Increased connectivity in the brain is observed, evidenced by denser white matter.

• Denser white matter correlates with more connections throughout the brain.

Sensory Intake

• Students exhibit greater sensory intake.

• This phenomenon is referred to as "self-advantage" which has supporting resources available on a podcast and website.

Challenges Faced by Students

• Advanced students may face unique challenges:

  • Worrying excessively about events without justification.

  • Physical problems which can manifest as:

    • Restlessness

    • Aches and pains

    • Fatigue

• Notably, these physical problems often lack any identifiable medical cause.

Asynchronous Development

• Discussion of asynchronous development highlights that:

  • Students' advanced cognitive abilities may develop ahead of their emotional or physical maturity.

• Example: A five-year-old kindergartner may have advanced thinking abilities but still be physically young and developing.

Enhanced Awareness

• Gifted and enhanced learners often demonstrate heightened sensory processing, making them more aware of their surroundings.

• Many such students are well-tuned to their environment, enriching their learning experiences.