The Paradox of Giftedness and Autism: Packet of Information for Families

This "Packet of Information for Families" (PIF) was developed for parents whose children are identified as both gifted/ talented and on the autism spectrum, or twice-exceptional. Parents of twice-exceptional children often search for appropriate and challenging enrichment programs for their child, but the dearth of information available about how best to prepare for this experience can make the process overwhelming. Recommendations for preparing a child vary depending on the type of program and age of the student; therefore, some of the information provided in PIF may not be applicable to one's specific situation. To help navigate through this process, the authors have provided a figure in Section II that outlines specific issues related to residential programs and/or non-residential programs. They hope that PIF provides support and guidance to parents who are often in situations of having to advocate for their twice-exceptional child. PIF is designed to complement the "Packet of Information for Professionals," (PIP). Appended are: (1) Maryland Report (1972) Definition of Giftedness; (2) The Thirteen IDEA Disability Categories; (3) Explanation of Federal Protections for Students with Disabilities; (4) Explanation of Individualized Educational Programs (IEPs); (5) Explanation of a 504 Plan; (6) The Belin-Blank Center's Assessment and Counseling Clinic; (7) Diagnostic Criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD); (8) Optional Student Disclosure Sheet; (9) Web Sites for Parents with a Child with ASD; and (10) Books on Asperger Syndrome/High Functioning Autism. [Funding for this paper was provided by the Messengers of Healing Winds Foundation.]