Table of Contents

About the Authors ix

Authors’ Note xi

Preface xiii - Temple Grandin

Introduction xv - Diane M. Kennedy and Rebecca S. Banks

Part I: Who They Are

1. Twice Exceptional: A Nontraditional View of Giftedness 3
2. Recognizing 2e: A Confusing Mix of Abilities and Challenges 17
3. 2e, ADHD, and Labels: Misunderstanding Behaviors and Missing Deficits 37
4. Autism and 2e: A Better Understanding of Deficits and Behaviors 57

Part II: Why They’re Stuck

5. A Layman’s Guide to the DSM: The Flawed System That Traps Our Children 81
6. Fact or Fallacy: Questioning the Validity of the ADHD Diagnosis 101
7. Misunderstanding the Spectrum of Autism: An Important ‘‘e’’ in 2e 119
8. 2e Students and Education: Too Bright, Too Broken 139

Part III: How to Help Them

9. Diagnosing the Whole Child: Identifying Abilities and Minimizing Deficits 165
10. Educating the Whole Child: Nurturing Abilities and Supporting Challenges 183

Conclusion: Ensuring the Best Future for Our Brightest Minds 209

Additional Resources 219

Notes 225

Acknowledgments 261

Index 267