Parenting Dual Exceptional Children: Supporting a Child who Has High Learning Potential and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities

This is the first comprehensive guide for parents of children with Dual and Multiple Exceptionality (DME, sometimes called Twice Exceptionality or 2E). Children with high learning potential may also have conditions such as ASD, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia, having 'flashes of brilliance' in some areas whilst needing additional support in others. As a result, their abilities may not always be recognised in an educational setting. This book takes a strengths-based approach towards helping parents recognise and focus on their child's areas of potential to support them towards better attainment and self-esteem, and build on these abilities while also identifying and addressing areas of difficulty. It provides an understanding of the mixed learning profile of DME children, explaining why they excel in some areas but not others, as well as guidance for parents on working positively with schools and providing their child with the support they need. With stories, quotes from parents and examples throughout, this is an essential guide to helping DME children achieve their full untapped potential.

Table of Contents:
1. Introduction 2. A short description of Dual and Multiple Exceptionality 3. Your child at home 4. Could your child have gifts or talents? 5. What does high learning potential mean? 6. What are some of the challenges your child with High Learning Potential may face? 7. Thinking about having your child with High Learning Potential assessed? 8. Conclusion

About the Author :
Denise Yates has worked in education and training for over thirty-five years to enable all individuals to maximise their potential. For ten years, she was Chief Executive of the national charity, Potential Plus UK (formerly The National Association for Gifted Children). In 2017, Denise left to pursue her passion which could be summarised as 'hidden potential'; children and young people with Dual and Multiple Exceptionality, those with mental health problems and those who have been failed by the system, for whatever reason.

Review :
This timely publication is an essential read for families nurturing the development of a child with Dual and Multiple Exceptionality. Denise adeptly weaves together the often competing priorities of special educational needs and high learning potential with clear advice and guidance at every stage. The book is written in an engaging style with an informal tone that makes it accessible to families, but also to the professionals working in this sector. I have certainly found the book insightful and I hope you will too. Denise has had many years' experience in supporting children with Dual or Multiple Exceptionality so they can reach their full potential. This book deals with the difficulties facing a child that has high learning potential in combination with one or more 'traditional' special needs that get in the way of being able to function at a level that matches what they could be capable of. Parents will find his book invaluable in dealing with the needs of their DME children and helping their children to thrive. Denise has not only produced a comprehensive overview of Dual or Multiple Exceptionality, but a handbook that will prove to be essential reading for parents and carers who are asking themselves that question of Why is My Child so Different from Others their Age? And haven't, until now, found an answer. Denise has combined background and context with practical ideas for support, extra reading tips and action plans. She has drawn on her wealth of knowledge and experience to create a go-to guide that should help families trying to understand and support the needs of their DME children.