Workshop Description
“Growing Giftedness: Responsive Pedagogies for Twice-Exceptional Children” is a practical, research-informed session designed for Early Years educators. The workshop introduces the unique learning profiles of twice-exceptional (2e) children and explores how responsive, strength-based pedagogies can nurture both their advanced abilities and additional needs. Drawing on action research from the Foundation Stage, the session blends key theory with classroom strategies that can be implemented immediately.
Objectives
Participants will:
• Build a clear understanding of giftedness and twice-exceptionality in the Early Years.
• Learn how to identify early indicators of advanced ability and dual needs.
• Explore practical strategies such as curriculum compacting, tiered tasks, acceleration, and enrichment.
• Understand how to balance challenge, support, and social–emotional development for 2e learners.
Key Topics
• Defining giftedness and twice-exceptionality
• Early identification and masking
• Responsive pedagogies (compacting, enrichment, tiered lessons)
• Strength-based, inclusive classroom practice
• Social–emotional needs of 2e children
Workshop Leader
Ridhi Sachdeva
Ridhi Sachdeva is the Head of Foundation Stage 2 and a Play Champion in Dubai, UAE, with over 14 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. She holds a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education, a Postgraduate Degree in Education, and a Master’s in Teaching and Learning. Ridhi has also completed specialised training in Gifted Education through the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College at Arizona State University. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) at Penn State University.
Ridhi specialises in gifted and twice-exceptional learners, leads action research initiatives, and delivers professional development on creativity, inclusion, and responsive pedagogy. Her work centers on continuous provision, possibility thinking, and strength-based approaches that nurture diverse young learners.