We are amid a recultivation in the ever-evolving ecology of education, particularly for twice-exceptional (2e) students. An ecosystem thrives when each part is free to do what it does best. Similarly, a 2e child flourishes when we embrace strength-based educational and parenting approaches. We don’t force a wild rose to become a cactus by planting it in a desert; instead, it is nurtured in conditions where it can blossom into vibrance. The same goes for our neurodivergent children’s talents and capabilities to flourish.
Imagine a world where each 2e child's talents and strengths are cultivated, creating an environment where they can thrive. This is the vision behind the movement toward strength-based approaches, particularly for twice-exceptional learners. We shift from solely focusing on the weeds—what students struggle with—to discovering and fostering the buds of their abilities.
Seeds Ready to Sprout
Strength-based assessments, like those offered at the Strength-Based Assessment Lab at the Bridges Graduate School of Cognitive Diversity, serve as a greenhouse for this innovative approach. The Lab's mission is simple yet profound: to discover and nurture the strengths of students who may not thrive in conventional educational settings.
One mother shared how the Lab helped her view her 8-year-old daughter as a unique seed requiring specific conditions to sprout. Empowered to focus on her child's strengths, she provided the sunlight and nutrients necessary for growth. The Lab's service transformed their educational journey, opening doors to new opportunities and long-term benefits, much like watching a garden burst into full bloom.
Sprouts Ready to Root
These stories of transformation are not isolated. A father expressed relief and gratitude when his 10-year-old son was finally seen for his strengths. The Lab's strength-identification process provided practical strategies for enriching his son's school experience, allowing him to thrive in ways he hadn't imagined. These real-life experiences highlight the profound impact of shifting our perspective from deficits to strengths, from weeds to blossoms.
Blossoming into Vibrance
Emerging research supports what many parents and educators are discovering firsthand: focusing on strengths rather than weaknesses empowers students and their families. Strength-based assessments as the basis for parenting programs enhance parents' sense of competence, enabling them to better support their twice-exceptional children. This shift in focus boosts children's self-esteem and motivation, much like proper nutrients help plants grow stronger, leading to positive outcomes in cognitive, emotional, and social domains.
An Ecosystem of Possibility
Implementing strength-based strategies involves collaboration between educators, parents, and students, much like a thriving ecosystem requires each element to work harmoniously. It begins with conversations to identify each child's personal best moments and the environmental hazards they face. From there, experts craft personalized recommendations to guide talent development and educational practices that resonate with each child's profile, ensuring the right conditions for growth.
Navigating the Changing Weather
While the benefits of this approach are clear, the journey has its challenges. Shifting from traditional models requires commitment and training for educators and parents, similar to learning how to cultivate a diverse garden. It’s about complementing existing evaluations like neuropsychological assessments, rather than replacing them, and ensuring everyone is equipped to support strength-based strategies effectively.
A New Pathway
Strength-based assessments chart a promising new path in education, one rich with potential and growth. By focusing on what students enjoy and where they excel, we inspire a new generation of learners who are deeply rooted, ready to sprout, and prepared to bloom. This approach aligns seamlessly with the mission of organizations like Reel2E, which advocate for educational equity and innovation. Together, we can cultivate a more positive and effective educational landscape where every child is seen and celebrated for their unique strengths and talents, much like each part of an ecosystem is cherished for its contribution to the whole.
Strengths Resources From REEL
Written by Dr. Jade Ann Rivera for REEL2e
Bio: Jade Rivera, Ed.D. is Lab Director of the Strength-Based Assessment Lab and Faculty at Bridges Graduate School of Cognitive Diversity in Education. She researches strength-based assessment and strength-based, talent-focused approaches for twice-exceptional children. She is also a published author with Routledge, has written numerous influential articles and blog posts, and is a sought-after speaker at national conferences. Jade leads impactful workshops for educators and parents, providing innovative strategies for supporting neurodivergent children.