Manisha Snoyer delves into the complex world of gifted and profoundly gifted children with Megan Cannella, Director of Outreach at the Davidson Institute. This episode explores not just what makes these children unique but also the everyday challenges they and their families face. Megan provides deep insights into the brain-based differences that set gifted children apart and shares innovative strategies for nurturing their unique needs. The conversation also addresses the critical importance of a whole family approach and acknowledges the additional challenges of profoundly gifted children. Whether you're a parent, an educator, or simply curious about the nature of giftedness, this episode is an in-depth exploration of understanding and supporting these exceptional minds. Megan Cannella serves as the Director of Outreach at the Davidson Institute, a nonprofit committed to serving the gifted and twice-exceptional community. A luminary in the field of gifted education, Megan has dedicated her career to helping parents and educators understand the unique needs and challenges of these extraordinary children. With a focus on brain-based research and whole-family approaches, she provides practical solutions that enable gifted kids to thrive emotionally, intellectually, and socially. Megan's work is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to support and nourish the gifted mind.
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Davidson Institute | Email: mailto:outreach@davidsongifted.org
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Time Codes:
[00:00:00] Manisha Snoyer introduces guest Megan Cannella. The duo discusses the topic of catering to gifted and profoundly gifted children.
[00:04:15] Manisha and Megan delve into the much-debated difference between giftedness and profound giftedness.
[00:08:11] Providing an in-depth analysis of the brain development in neurodivergent students, Megan sheds light on the 'second sponge phase.'
[00:13:20] Megan shares practical resources and strategies designed to aid families in scaffolding and organization.
[00:16:43] Manisha questions the often-overlooked aspect of communication challenges for gifted children.Â
[00:19:20]Â Aimed at overcoming the children's moments of uncertainty or brain freeze, Megan introduces an empowering questioning technique.
[00:22:20] Stigma surrounding 'giftedness' gets tackled as both Manisha and Megan dive deep into the meaning and societal perspectives on the term.
[00:26:36] Manisha emphasizes the indispensable value of understanding how your child processes information over merely labeling them as 'gifted.'
[00:30:40] Megan examines the unique emotional needs of gifted students, an eye-opener for many parents.
[00:38:03] Providing a pro tip on finding lower-cost testing and resources, Megan suggests inquiring at local colleges or universities.
[00:46:01] Manisha and Megan open a thoughtful dialogue on the fear of failure in gifted children, encouraging a shift towards a growth mindset.
[00:49:05] Megan suggests a family activity where everyone tries something new they're not good at, making for an endearing and educational moment.
[00:54:05] Rounding out the child's overall development, Megan emphasizes the under-discussed need for physical activities in gifted children’s routines.
[01:03:20] Megan shares the self-awareness tool HALT (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired), a practical approach for parents to gauge their emotional state.
[01:08:40] Manisha and Megan explore the potential of AI in creating educational content for advanced learners.
This podcast is made possible through a generous grant from the Vela Education Fund
VELA Education Fund is catalyzing a vibrant alternative education ecosystem. VELA provides trust-based funding to entrepreneurs, fosters community-building and knowledge-sharing, and increases visibility through storytelling that promotes cultural awareness and acceptance of the out-of-system space. Today, VELA serves the largest community of out-of-system education entrepreneurs in the country, with over 2,000 community members. About half of VELA’s community members operate small learning environments, and the other half are ecosystem and community builders offering direct services and support across the out-of-system space. Learn more atÂ
.