Curiosity, Connection, and Confidence: A New Path to Motivation for 2e Kids

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For many twice-exceptional learners, motivation isn’t about effort - it’s about alignment. When tasks feel meaningful, manageable, and connected to supportive adults, 2e kids show incredible persistence. When they feel misunderstood or overwhelmed, motivation disappears fast.

This talk introduces a connection-first model of motivation rooted in co-regulation, curiosity, and collaborative problem-solving.

We’ll cover:

• Why 2e students may excel in one moment and shut down in the next

• How nervous system states and dopamine influence executive function and persistence

• Ways to nurture intrinsic motivation through interest, autonomy, and emotional safety

• How to shift from directive, corrective parenting to partnership-based approaches that strengthen skills and relationships

• Practical tools to help kids build awareness, confidence, agency, and follow-through

Parents will walk away with tools that support both skill-building and relationship-building—so motivation becomes something you cultivate with your child, not something you chase.

Courtney Edman is the founder of 2tametheshamE, Inc., where she provides coaching, education, and advocacy for neurodivergent children, young adults, and their families. She helps parents and caregivers develop strategies, skills, and confidence to support twice-exceptional learners, and produces the See Me Podcast. Courtney also delivers trainings, webinars, and guest lectures on giftedness, twice-exceptionality, and neurodiversity-informed approaches to learning.

Teresa, REEL's Parent Community Program Manager, is the mother of two vibrant 2e kids and who is 2e herself, holds a M.Ed. in Cognitive Diversity from Bridges Graduate School. Teresa has a diverse professional background, including roles as a classroom teacher, a board member for organizations that support the disabled communities in Silicon Valley, and a consultant.​