231 | when giftedness hides autism: understanding 2e kids with dr. megan helmen

about this episode (+ scroll for resources) 👇

what does it mean for a child to be twice exceptional, or 2e?

in this episode, dr. tay is joined by dr. megan helmen, a pediatric neuropsychologist and founder of Developmental Discoveries, to talk about 2e profiles, giftedness, autism, and why these kids are so often misunderstood.

dr. megan explains how giftedness is not just “being smart,” but can involve a different way of thinking, processing, feeling, and moving through the world. when giftedness overlaps with autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, or other developmental differences, children may have areas of incredible strength alongside areas where they need significant support.

this conversation explores why 2e autistic children may be missed, how they use strengths to compensate, why school performance does not always tell the full story, and how parents can better understand and support their child’s unique brain.

in this episode, you'll hear:

• what 2e, or twice exceptional, means
• how giftedness and autism can overlap
• why 2e autistic children are often missed or misunderstood
• how high intelligence can mask support needs
• why overall IQ scores may not capture the full picture
• what “subtle but significant autism” can look like
• how 2e kids may use compensation strategies in social situations
• why hard things may feel easy and “easy” things may feel hard
• the importance of including children in the feedback and diagnostic process
• how to support 2e kids through strengths, accommodations, interests, and belonging
• why parents of 2e children deserve compassion and grace

timestamps

00:00 introduction to 2e and guest background

01:47 dr. megan helmen's journey into neuropsychology

03:36 the shift towards neurodiversity affirming practices

07:12 what is 2e and how does it relate to autism

11:52 subtle presentations of autism in gifted children

16:09 compensation strategies in 2e autistic kids

22:32 IQ and the profile of 2e individuals

26:24 differentiating giftedness from autism

35:36 supporting 2e children in navigating the world

42:36 parenting tips and final thoughts

resources

⚡️ Developmental Discoveries — learn more about dr. megan helmen’s neuropsychological assessment practice as well as resources for 2e kids. also follow on Instagram and Facebook

⚡️ Autism Traits Guide — a $7 parent-friendly resource that breaks down autism diagnostic criteria, including subtle profiles, and shares examples of how traits can show up across ages, support needs, and presentations

⚡️ EVOLVE the membership — includes the “talking to your kid about their diagnosis” masterclass, along with monthly trainings, weekly Q+A episodes, and ongoing support for parents of autistic kids

⚡️ explore dr. tay’s clinical services, parent resources, and support at drtaylorday.com

⚡️ follow dr. tay on instagram @the.dr.tay for practical autism education and parenting insights