Description:

This workshop introduces neurodivergence and twice-exceptionality (2e) through a neuro-affirming, strength-based lens, helping parents and professionals move beyond labels to a deeper understanding. Participants will explore how differences in brain development, environments, and expectations influence learning, behavior, and well-being. The session emphasizes practical frameworks and tools that support regulation, motivation, and engagement across home and school settings. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies they can immediately apply to better support 2e and asynchronously developing learners.

Presenter:

Teresa Nair is the Parent Community & Services Program Manager at REEL (Resilience and Engagement for Every Learner), a nonprofit supporting twice-exceptional and neurodivergent learners and their families. She holds a Master’s degree in Education (M.Ed.) in Cognitive Diversity in Education and a Certificate in Twice-Exceptional Education from Bridges Graduate School of Cognitive Diversity. With over 20 years of experience across education, business, and community leadership, Teresa designs and facilitates neuro-affirming workshops and trainings grounded in both research and lived experience as a neurodivergent individual and parent.

Learning Objectives:

Participants will: Identify key principles of a neuro-affirming approach to neurodivergence and twice-exceptionality, including how strengths, support needs, and environments interact to influence learning and behavior. Apply practical, neuro-affirming strategies to support regulation, motivation, and engagement in 2e children and students across home and school contexts. For parents and caregivers: Gain concrete tools and language to better understand their child’s profile, reduce daily power struggles, and collaborate more effectively with educators and support teams.