Minnesota Council for the Gifted & Talented upcoming events

PDA and Co-Regulation: A 2 Part Series for those working with 2E Children (November 13, 2026)

Fri, 13 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

MCGT Professional Series Speaker Event

Co-Sponsored by Cottonwood Center and the Minnesota Department of Education

PDA and Co-Regulation:

A 2 Part Series for those working with 2E Children

Presenters: Dr. Danika Maddocks and Dr. Mary Wandrei

2 Sessions: Fridays, 12:00pm - 2:00pm CST via Zoom

November 13, 2026
February 26, 2027

We wanted professional development for the practitioner - directly applicable to the neurodivergent and gifted clients in our offices and classrooms. So we created it. Join Dr. Danika Maddocks and Dr. Mary Wandrei in understanding two timely themes for guiding the gifted: Pathological Demand Avoidance (or Pervasive Drive for Autonomy) and co-regulation skills. PD is provided in 2 two-hour sessions, available asynchronously if needed, and CEU credits are available from the MN Board of Psychology and MN Department of Education.

November 13, 2026
Gifted PDAers - Who They Are and What They Need

Although research on Pathological Demand Avoidance or Pervasive Drive for Autonomy (PDA) is limited, many families, clinicians, and educators are recognizing the PDA framework as a helpful tool to understand and support some of the children and adolescents who have been difficult to understand and support with other frameworks and approaches. In this presentation, Dr. Danika Maddocks will describe how the PDA profile and PDA characteristics present in gifted and twice-exceptional youth. She will also share guiding principles and specific strategies to support PDAers in therapy and in the classroom.

Learning objectives of this session:

Identify 3-5 core characteristics associated with the PDA profile
Explain two reasons that PDA may be missed in gifted and twice-exceptional people
Describe two guiding principles that professionals can use to support gifted PDAers in therapy or in the classroom
Name three specific strategies for therapy or the classroom that are PDA-informed and PDA-affirming

Dr. Danika Maddocks is a psychologist, gifted/2e parent coach, and owner of The Gifted Learning Lab. As a coach, she helps parents let go of standard parenting pressures and build a unique family life that actually works for their kid and themselves. As a therapist, she helps gifted/2e kids and teens understand themselves, like themselves, and build lives that are a good fit for their body and brain. Her approach is rooted in the neurodiversity paradigm and informed by over 15 years supporting gifted/2e families as an educator, therapist, researcher, and consultant - plus personal experiences growing up gifted, recognizing her own twice-exceptionality at age 39, and raising a young 2e kid.

February 26, 2027
Co-Regulation and Self-Regulation: Responsive Guidance for Gifted Children and Their Families

Why can a child reason brilliantly in one moment and become unable to think, cooperate, or recover in the next? This program examines co-regulation as a reciprocal process in which a child and a responsive adult influence one another’s arousal, emotions, thinking, and behavior. Participants will connect developmental research on caregiver support, stress physiology, and emotion socialization to the gradual development of self-regulation. Through clinical and school-based examples involving gifted children and other exceptional learners, participants will consider how intensity, asynchronous development, context, and individual differences may change the support a child needs without assuming that giftedness itself predicts dysregulation.

Participants will learn practical strategies spanning emotional connection, thinking together, and guided action. Case examples will illustrate how adults can read the child’s perspective and their own limits, set safe and flexible boundaries, repair mismatches, and gradually transfer responsibility. Attendees will leave with a framework for coaching parents and educators that preserves the child’s agency while providing developmentally appropriate guidance.

Learning objectives of this session:

Explain two developmental and two stress-physiology mechanisms through which adult support can contribute to a child’s regulation, while identifying a limit of current neurobiological evidence.
Select and demonstrate at least five of ten responsive co-regulation strategies for a parent or educator in a case vignette, including a safety boundary and a gradual transfer of responsibility.
Analyze how a gifted child’s developmental profile, context, and possible co-occurring needs may alter the selection and pacing of co-regulation supports without relying on giftedness stereotypes.
Formulate a brief coaching plan that accounts for the child’s perspective, adult capacity, rupture and repair, and observable signs that a strategy is helping.

Mary L. Wandrei, PhD, LP, has worked in the mental health field for over 30 years and has been a licensed psychologist since 1998. She is the founder of Cottonwood Center, in White Bear Lake, MN, where she works primarily with gifted, neurodivergent, and multi-exceptional children and adults. Her specialties include autism identity and skill development; school adjustment and educational planning; and consultation around executive functioning, anxiety, depression, sensory processing, and temperament issues. Dr. Wandrei supervises therapists in training, who often have openings when therapy is hard to find, and offers office space for multidisciplinary providers (therapists, nutritionists, coaches) who work with intense and gifted individuals. She is also the primary supervisor at Dynamic Connections, a relationship-based day treatment center for individuals with autism.

Continuing Education Credits:

This Presentation has been approved for 4 hours of Continuing Education through the MN Board of Psychology (Log #202710.080) or 4 hours of Continuing Education from the Minnesota Department of Education. CEU documentation will be sent directly to participants.

Format:

This series consists of two separate two-hour virtual speaker events, available both live and asynchronous to participants. Continuing education certificates will be available after completion of the learning experience.

Fee:

$100 Individual rate

$70 for MCGT Professional Members and MCGT Sponsors

Not a MCGT Professional member? Join online now!

$30 for Undergraduate, Graduate Students, and Pre-licensed Professionals

Questions? Email info@mcgt.net

Neurodiversity and Giftedness: Supporting Exceptional Learners (November 14, 2026)

Sat, 14 Nov 2026 18:30:00 GMT

Neurodiversity and Giftedness: Supporting Exceptional Learners

November 14, 2026
12:30pm - 4:00pm
Host and co-sponsor: Lionsgate Academy

A rare opportunity to gain knowledge, techniques and strategies to support neurodiverse and gifted learners with the top professionals in Minnesota. Interactive sessions include a broad range of topics applicable to all learners, but vital when raising or educating twice (or more) exceptional people. CEUs from the MN Dept of Education will be available.

WHEN: Saturday, November 14, 2026, 12:30 - 4:00pm
(registration and check in begins at 12pm)

WHERE: Lionsgate Academy, 599 Cardigan Road, Shoreview, MN, 55126

COST:
MCGT Member - $25, an additional $10 for a second adult in the same family

Lionsgate Parent - $25, an additional $10 for a second adult in the same family (registration code required)

Non-Member - $50 (not a member? Join online now!)

Schedule:

12:30pm - Large Group Gathering

12:45pm - Breakout Session

2:00pm - Breakout Session

3:15pm - Breakout Session

Speaker Breakout Session Options:
Click Here for Breakout Session Descriptions

An Overview of Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) for Autism with Lori Migdal, Ph.D., LP
Anxiety and Neurodiversity with Teresa Argo Boatman, Ph.D.
Auditory Processing with Stacey Ohumukini
Beyond the Brain: An Integrative Health Approach for Exceptional Children and their Families with Dr. Andrea Johnson
Both/And: Twice-Exceptional Children 101 with Angie Lauer-Schaeppi, Ph.D.
Complex Brains, Complicated Feelings: Social and Emotional Supports for Multi-Exceptional Learners with Carol Malueg
Executive Functions in Gifted Students: From Brain Science to Real Life — Supporting and Empowering Bright Kids with Liz Adams, PhD, LP , ABPP
Gestalt Language Processing with Claire Hietpas and Jessica Brunell
Interventions of PDA (Pervasive Drive for Autonomy) with Cascia Berman
It’s Not Defiance: Understanding PDA with Dr. Melissa Fischer
Moments of Magic: Sharing Delight with Your Gifted/2e Child with Megan Helmen, Psy.D., L.P
Policies that Support Gifted Learners with Wendy Behrens

Photo & Video Release

By attending a MCGT event, attendees agree to allow their names, likenesses and images either in audio, photographic or video format, recorded onsite during the conference to be used by MCGT for educational, promotional, advocacy, and archival purposes.

Financial assistance is available from the Betty Johnson Scholarship Fund: Families with gifted & talented children should not be restricted in their participation in MCGT activities because of limited funds. Therefore, the MCGT Board will accept requests for financial assistance which would enable families to attend events sponsored by MCGT, such as the annual conference or speaker events. MCGT also accepts requests for financial assistance for MCGT membership fees.

Submit a request from the Betty Johnson Scholarship Fund

Questions? Email info@mcgt.net

The Minnesota Council for the Gifted and Talented (MCGT) is a state-wide non-profit support and advocacy organization of parents, educators, and other professionals who live or work with gifted & talented children and are interested in their education and well-being.

Gifted Adult Community Group Second Annual Friendsgiving (November 19, 2026)

Fri, 20 Nov 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Second Annual Friendsgiving

November 19, 2026

6:30-9:30pm CST
St Paul, MN

Registration Required by November 16

Let's get together and kick off the Winter holidays season!

Honoring the harvest and coziness of November, join us for our second annual Friendsgiving 2026 - an evening of friends new and old, food, sweets and a side of cerebral window shopping. We’ll meet at Red Balloon Bookshop and navigate our way along Grand Ave on foot.

The Schedule (approx.):

6:30-7:00pm - Introducing a fabulous bookstore!

Red Balloon Bookshop

891 Grand Ave

Saint Paul, MN 55105

7:00-7:30pm - Appetizer stop (you may want to take speciality dessert home too…)

Cafe Latte

850 Grand Ave Suite No 5,

St Paul, MN 55105

7:30-8:00pm

Mischief Toy Store - 30 min won’t be enough time, so a quick browse to introduce you to this amazing place!

818 Grand Avenue

Saint, Paul, MN 55105

8:00-9:00pm - Main Meal

India House

758 Grand Ave,

St Paul, MN 55105

Grand Old Creamery … only open until 9pm but it is right next door to India House … so individual choice

750 Grand Ave.

Saint Paul, MN 55105

9:00-9:30pm - Group stroll back to our cars at Victoria and Grand Ave.

WHEN: Thursday, November 19, 2026, 6:30-9:30pm CST

WHERE: Meet at Red Balloon Bookshop, 891 Grand Ave, Saint Paul, MN 55105

COST: Participants will be responsible for the cost of their own food, beverages, and purchases. Registration is required by Nov 16.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS:

We will be traversing city sidewalks, so don your most fashionable Minnesota-worthy footwear.

Parking: There is a ramp on the corner of Victoria and Grand Ave that just started charging for the ramp. There are side streets to park on so come a few minutes early to find a spot.

If there are any changes due to weather, we will contact you by email.

Questions? Email info@mcgt.net

The Minnesota Council for the Gifted and Talented (MCGT) is a state-wide non-profit support and advocacy organization of parents, educators, and other professionals who live or work with gifted children and are interested in their education and well-being.

Let's Stop Crashing Into Writing (December 01, 2026)

Wed, 02 Dec 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Let's Stop Crashing Into Writing

Tuesday, December 1, 2026, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Roseville, MN

Co-sponsored by Roseville Area Schools

Presenter: Tina Van Erp, M.Ed

Using an abbreviated version of human-centered design’s “crash course”, this session will immerse you into the struggle with your learner and writing. Gifted learners have a complex relationship with learning to write and writing. Together we will quiet the noise and identify the first steps to supporting you and/or your learning in improving their relationship with writing. You will leave the session with a new perspective, a lot of knowledge of reasons why gifted learners struggle with writing and the first next right steps to reconnecting your support and partnership with your child.

This is a family event, parents/caregivers are encouraged to bring their student(s). This is not a drop off event - parents/caregivers must attend.

Tina Van Erp, M.Ed is a Gifted Learner Coach, Learning Specialist and Teacher Trainer with 25 years of experience working with gifted learners and their families. As The River® Coach, she empowers gifted learners through knowledge of themselves as a learner, a positive relationship with learning and developing a personal style of self-advocacy.

When: Tuesday, December 1, 2026, 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Where: Aŋpétu Téča Education Center (Roseville Area Schools Community Building)

1910 County Rd B West, Roseville, MN 55113
The building is locked, staff will let you in and direct you where you need to go.

Who: Parents/Caregivers, Students, and Educators

Cost:

$15 Per Family for MCGT members
$25 Per Family for non-members (Not a member? Join MCGT now!)
$15 Per Family for Roseville Area Schools Families (registration code required)
FREE to Roseville Educators (registration code required)

Financial assistance is available from the Betty Johnson Scholarship Fund: Families with gifted and talented children should not be restricted in their participation in MCGT activities because of limited funds. Therefore, the MCGT Board will accept requests for financial assistance which would enable families to attend events sponsored by MCGT, such as the annual conference or speaker events. MCGT also accepts requests for financial assistance for MCGT membership fees.

Submit a request from the Betty Johnson Scholarship Fund

Questions? Email info@mcgt.net

The Minnesota Council for the Gifted and Talented (MCGT) is a state-wide non-profit support and advocacy organization of parents, educators, and other professionals who live or work with gifted children and are interested in their education and well-being.

Social and Emotional Needs of Gifted and Talented Learners (December 16, 2026)

Wed, 16 Dec 2026 18:00:00 GMT

A Virtual Professional Learning Series

Social and Emotional Needs of Gifted and Talented Learners

Registration is required.

4 Sessions, Wednesdays, 12:00-2:00pm CT

October 21, 2026
December 16, 2026
February 17, 2027
April 21, 2027

Supporting the social and emotional needs of gifted and talented learners is essential to helping them thrive in school and beyond. This four‑part professional learning series sponsored by MDE and the Minnesota Council for Gifted and Talented provides educators, school leaders, psychologists, and counselors with practical strategies and research-based insights on key topics affecting gifted students today: anxiety, productive struggle, co‑regulation, and the intersectional identities of twice‑exceptional learners.

Each session features a nationally recognized expert—Teresa Boatman, Mark Long, Claire Hughes, and Matthew Fugate—who will guide participants in understanding these challenges and applying effective approaches in classrooms, counseling settings, and schoolwide practices.

All sessions will be recorded and available following the presentation. CEUs will be provided. The fee for the series is $100.

Who Should Attend:
Educators, counselors, administrators, gifted education specialists & coordinators, and psychologists.

Cost: $100 for the 4-session series
$10 invoicing fee applies to all invoices, invoice 30 days after first workshop

Additional Details:

Virtual format - Zoom link will be emailed prior to each session
Earn 8 CEUs from the Minnesota Department of Education
All sessions will be recorded and available to registrants following the event

This series is proudly presented in collaboration with the Minnesota Department of Education and the Minnesota Council for Gifted and Talented.

Contact - Registration Questions: Jennifer Farner, MCGT, info@mcgt.net

Contact - Program Questions: Wendy Behrens, 651.582.8786, wendy.behrens@state.mn.us

Request for special accommodations must be submitted in writing and received a minimum of 14 business days prior to each session. Please note, we are unable to provide copies of the presentation prior to the presentation.

If you are paying by check or purchase order, please make your check payable to MCGT (Minnesota Council for the Gifted & Talented) and mail to:

Minnesota Council for the Gifted & Talented

PO Box 143

Hopkins, MN 55343

The Minnesota Council for the Gifted and Talented (MCGT) is a state-wide 501(c)(3) non-profit support and advocacy organization of parents, educators, and other professionals who live or work with gifted children and are interested in their education and well-being.

16 Bar Bingo: Holiday Edition, Gifted Adult Community Group (December 21, 2026)

Tue, 22 Dec 2026 00:30:00 GMT

16 Bar Bingo: Holiday Edition

Monday, Dec 21, 2026

6:30-9:00pm CST

Join the Gifted Adult Community for a festive outing to The Hive Collaborative’s 16 Bar Bingo: Holiday Edition. Enjoy live music, laughter, and friendly competition in this upbeat mix of name-that-tune trivia, and cheer. Don’t fret about your music knowledge — the night is filled with holiday favorites and plenty of hints along the way. Registration required.

What:
16 Bar Bingo – Holiday Edition

75 sixteen-bar cuts of your favorite holiday songs, performed live
3 rounds of bingo with prizes for each winner
Complimentary “buzzy” treats provided by the Hive Collaborative

When: Monday, December 21, 2026, 6:30-9:00pm CST

Where: The Hive Collaborative, 677 Hamline Avenue North, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55104

Cost: Pay as you wish (starting at $7.50) online or at the door. Payments are made directly to The Hive Collaborative.

REGISTRATION REQUIRED:

Registration with MCGT is required so we can reserve sufficient group space at this popular event. A confirmation email with all event details will be sent prior to the event.

Additional Details:

Parking: There is street parking near The Hive Collaborative so come early to find a good spot.

Connecting: We’ll gather outside The Hive Collaborative at 6:30pm to connect and get settled before the event starts at 7:00 PM. If you come later, look for the MCGT Gifted Adult table inside.

Cancellations: If any changes are made due to weather, we will contact registrants by email.

Questions? Email info@mcgt.net

The Minnesota Council for the Gifted and Talented (MCGT) is a state-wide non-profit support and advocacy organization of parents, educators, and other professionals who live or work with gifted children and are interested in their education and well-being.

Raising Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids: Caregiver Conversations (January 12, 2027)

Wed, 13 Jan 2027 01:00:00 GMT

Gifted Roads ~
Support & Resources for Gifted and Multi-Exceptional People

Raising Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids

6 Sessions

Tuesdays, January 12 - February 16, 2027

7:00 - 8:15pm CT Via Zoom

Are you raising a child who feels everything intensely, argues like a trial attorney, asks the biggest, baddest questions at bedtime, and is dazzling and exhausting in equal measures? Parenting a gifted or 2e child can feel overwhelming and sometimes isolating, especially when typical parenting advice doesn’t quite fit your child or your family.

This group exists so you don’t have to figure it out alone. In this relaxed, six-session online conversation series, parents and caregivers gather with others who truly understand what life with these complex kids is like. Each session is guided by experienced facilitators, but the heart of the group is the parents and caregivers themselves. You’ll have space to ask questions, share experiences, listen, and leave with ideas you can actually use.

Topics include big emotions, power struggles, motivation, friendships, screen time, perfectionism, and more. After each session, participants receive a summary of key insights along with access to a shared folder of practical resources that grows throughout the series.

The Details:

Date: Tuesdays, January 12 through February 16, 2027

Time: 7:00 to 8:15 pm Central Time

Discussion Guides: Carol Malueg and Joan Larson

Cost: $150 per household (includes parenting and caregiving partners).
Contact support@giftedroads.com for scholarship availability or if you’d like to provide a scholarship for another attendee.

Location: Virtual—a Zoom link will be sent to all participants before the first meeting. We encourage you to find a quiet, child-free spot for the discussions as having children present will inhibit some parenting conversations.

Caregiver Conversations are subject to cancellation if minimum enrollment is not met.

Questions?

Let us know if you have any questions! We’ll be happy to hear from you. You’re welcome here.

~Gifted Roads, Email carol@malueg.com

What do past participants say about this group?

“So great to not feel alone!” ~Jill Simons

“This was fabulous; informative, open-minded, supportive and fun. The resources and suggested reading presented alone are worth gold.” ~Nichole S.

“The leads and participants in the class were so welcoming and open. I truly appreciate what everyone brought to the conversations.” ~S.B.

Carol Malueg, M.A., GCT, 2e, is a learning coach and consultant, specializing in gifted and twice-exceptional education and support. Carol serves on the Board of Directors for the Minnesota Council for the Gifted and Talented (MCGT) and the Gifted Homeschoolers Forum (GHF). She was honored with the MCGT Friend of the Gifted Award in 2020. Carol has trained hundreds of Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG) Model Parent Group Facilitators worldwide and was awarded the SENG Presidential Award for Distinguished Service in 2021. She has worked on three Javits Grant research projects focused on improving identification of and services for gifted at-risk students. Her company, Gifted Roads, addresses the gifted and multi-exceptional experience across the lifespan.https://giftedroads.com

Joan Larson is a gifted education specialist with Minnetonka Public Schools in Minnesota. She was an elementary classroom teacher for ten years, and has been a gifted education specialist for thirty years. Joan earned her Master’s Degree in Gifted, Creative, and Talented education from the University of St. Thomas. She has worked full-time work with gifted and talented students and their families in a variety of capacities, including program and curriculum development, coaching fellow teachers, and helping families navigate school with their gifted children. She has trained hundreds of SENG Model Parent Group Facilitators and led SMPGs with participants from all over the world.

Raising Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids: Caregiver Conversations (January 19, 2027)

Wed, 20 Jan 2027 01:00:00 GMT

Gifted Roads ~
Support & Resources for Gifted and Multi-Exceptional People

Raising Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids

6 Sessions

Tuesdays, January 12 - February 16, 2027

7:00 - 8:15pm CT Via Zoom

The Details:

Date: Tuesdays, January 12 through February 16, 2027

Time: 7:00 to 8:15 pm Central Time

Discussion Guides: Carol Malueg and Joan Larson

Caregiver Conversations are subject to cancellation if minimum enrollment is not met.

Questions?

Let us know if you have any questions! We’ll be happy to hear from you. You’re welcome here.

~Gifted Roads, Email carol@malueg.com

What do past participants say about this group?

“So great to not feel alone!” ~Jill Simons

“This was fabulous; informative, open-minded, supportive and fun. The resources and suggested reading presented alone are worth gold.” ~Nichole S.

“The leads and participants in the class were so welcoming and open. I truly appreciate what everyone brought to the conversations.” ~S.B.

Raising Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids: Caregiver Conversations (January 26, 2027)

Wed, 27 Jan 2027 01:00:00 GMT

Gifted Roads ~
Support & Resources for Gifted and Multi-Exceptional People

Raising Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids

6 Sessions

Tuesdays, January 12 - February 16, 2027

7:00 - 8:15pm CT Via Zoom

The Details:

Date: Tuesdays, January 12 through February 16, 2027

Time: 7:00 to 8:15 pm Central Time

Discussion Guides: Carol Malueg and Joan Larson

Caregiver Conversations are subject to cancellation if minimum enrollment is not met.

Questions?

Let us know if you have any questions! We’ll be happy to hear from you. You’re welcome here.

~Gifted Roads, Email carol@malueg.com

What do past participants say about this group?

“So great to not feel alone!” ~Jill Simons

“This was fabulous; informative, open-minded, supportive and fun. The resources and suggested reading presented alone are worth gold.” ~Nichole S.

“The leads and participants in the class were so welcoming and open. I truly appreciate what everyone brought to the conversations.” ~S.B.

Raising Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids: Caregiver Conversations (February 02, 2027)

Wed, 03 Feb 2027 01:00:00 GMT

Gifted Roads ~
Support & Resources for Gifted and Multi-Exceptional People

Raising Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids

6 Sessions

Tuesdays, January 12 - February 16, 2027

7:00 - 8:15pm CT Via Zoom

The Details:

Date: Tuesdays, January 12 through February 16, 2027

Time: 7:00 to 8:15 pm Central Time

Discussion Guides: Carol Malueg and Joan Larson

Caregiver Conversations are subject to cancellation if minimum enrollment is not met.

Questions?

Let us know if you have any questions! We’ll be happy to hear from you. You’re welcome here.

~Gifted Roads, Email carol@malueg.com

What do past participants say about this group?

“So great to not feel alone!” ~Jill Simons

“This was fabulous; informative, open-minded, supportive and fun. The resources and suggested reading presented alone are worth gold.” ~Nichole S.

“The leads and participants in the class were so welcoming and open. I truly appreciate what everyone brought to the conversations.” ~S.B.

Raising Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids: Caregiver Conversations (February 09, 2027)

Wed, 10 Feb 2027 01:00:00 GMT

Gifted Roads ~
Support & Resources for Gifted and Multi-Exceptional People

Raising Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids

6 Sessions

Tuesdays, January 12 - February 16, 2027

7:00 - 8:15pm CT Via Zoom

The Details:

Date: Tuesdays, January 12 through February 16, 2027

Time: 7:00 to 8:15 pm Central Time

Discussion Guides: Carol Malueg and Joan Larson

Caregiver Conversations are subject to cancellation if minimum enrollment is not met.

Questions?

Let us know if you have any questions! We’ll be happy to hear from you. You’re welcome here.

~Gifted Roads, Email carol@malueg.com

What do past participants say about this group?

“So great to not feel alone!” ~Jill Simons

“This was fabulous; informative, open-minded, supportive and fun. The resources and suggested reading presented alone are worth gold.” ~Nichole S.

“The leads and participants in the class were so welcoming and open. I truly appreciate what everyone brought to the conversations.” ~S.B.

Raising Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids: Caregiver Conversations (February 16, 2027)

Wed, 17 Feb 2027 01:00:00 GMT

Gifted Roads ~
Support & Resources for Gifted and Multi-Exceptional People

Raising Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids

6 Sessions

Tuesdays, January 12 - February 16, 2027

7:00 - 8:15pm CT Via Zoom

The Details:

Date: Tuesdays, January 12 through February 16, 2027

Time: 7:00 to 8:15 pm Central Time

Discussion Guides: Carol Malueg and Joan Larson

Caregiver Conversations are subject to cancellation if minimum enrollment is not met.

Questions?

Let us know if you have any questions! We’ll be happy to hear from you. You’re welcome here.

~Gifted Roads, Email carol@malueg.com

What do past participants say about this group?

“So great to not feel alone!” ~Jill Simons

“This was fabulous; informative, open-minded, supportive and fun. The resources and suggested reading presented alone are worth gold.” ~Nichole S.

“The leads and participants in the class were so welcoming and open. I truly appreciate what everyone brought to the conversations.” ~S.B.

Social and Emotional Needs of Gifted and Talented Learners (February 17, 2027)

Wed, 17 Feb 2027 18:00:00 GMT

A Virtual Professional Learning Series

Social and Emotional Needs of Gifted and Talented Learners

Registration is required.

4 Sessions, Wednesdays, 12:00-2:00pm CT

October 21, 2026
December 16, 2026
February 17, 2027
April 21, 2027

All sessions will be recorded and available following the presentation. CEUs will be provided. The fee for the series is $100.

Who Should Attend:
Educators, counselors, administrators, gifted education specialists & coordinators, and psychologists.

Cost: $100 for the 4-session series
$10 invoicing fee applies to all invoices, invoice 30 days after first workshop

Additional Details:

Virtual format - Zoom link will be emailed prior to each session
Earn 8 CEUs from the Minnesota Department of Education
All sessions will be recorded and available to registrants following the event

This series is proudly presented in collaboration with the Minnesota Department of Education and the Minnesota Council for Gifted and Talented.

Contact - Registration Questions: Jennifer Farner, MCGT, info@mcgt.net

Contact - Program Questions: Wendy Behrens, 651.582.8786, wendy.behrens@state.mn.us

If you are paying by check or purchase order, please make your check payable to MCGT (Minnesota Council for the Gifted & Talented) and mail to:

Minnesota Council for the Gifted & Talented

PO Box 143

Hopkins, MN 55343

PDA and Co-Regulation: A 2 Part Series for those working with 2E Children (February 26, 2027)

Fri, 26 Feb 2027 18:00:00 GMT

MCGT Professional Series Speaker Event

Co-Sponsored by Cottonwood Center and the Minnesota Department of Education

PDA and Co-Regulation:

A 2 Part Series for those working with 2E Children

Presenters: Dr. Danika Maddocks and Dr. Mary Wandrei

2 Sessions: Fridays, 12:00pm - 2:00pm CST via Zoom

November 13, 2026
February 26, 2027

November 13, 2026
Gifted PDAers - Who They Are and What They Need

Learning objectives of this session:

Identify 3-5 core characteristics associated with the PDA profile
Explain two reasons that PDA may be missed in gifted and twice-exceptional people
Describe two guiding principles that professionals can use to support gifted PDAers in therapy or in the classroom
Name three specific strategies for therapy or the classroom that are PDA-informed and PDA-affirming

February 26, 2027
Co-Regulation and Self-Regulation: Responsive Guidance for Gifted Children and Their Families

Learning objectives of this session:

Explain two developmental and two stress-physiology mechanisms through which adult support can contribute to a child’s regulation, while identifying a limit of current neurobiological evidence.
Select and demonstrate at least five of ten responsive co-regulation strategies for a parent or educator in a case vignette, including a safety boundary and a gradual transfer of responsibility.
Analyze how a gifted child’s developmental profile, context, and possible co-occurring needs may alter the selection and pacing of co-regulation supports without relying on giftedness stereotypes.
Formulate a brief coaching plan that accounts for the child’s perspective, adult capacity, rupture and repair, and observable signs that a strategy is helping.

Continuing Education Credits:

Format:

Fee:

$100 Individual rate

$70 for MCGT Professional Members and MCGT Sponsors

Not a MCGT Professional member? Join online now!

$30 for Undergraduate, Graduate Students, and Pre-licensed Professionals

Questions? Email info@mcgt.net

Exploring Our Own Giftedness - A Discussion Group for Gifted & Multi-Exceptional Adults (no test score required) (April 06, 2027)

Wed, 07 Apr 2027 00:00:00 GMT

Gifted Roads ~
Support & Resources for Gifted and Multi-Exceptional People

Exploring Our Own Giftedness -
A Discussion Group for Gifted & Multi-Exceptional Adults (no test score required)

6 Sessions

Tuesdays, April 6 - May 11, 2027
7:00 - 8:15pm CDT Via Zoom

Adulting is hard, even when you've been at it for a while. Gifted and 2e adults often don't have a welcoming space where we can share the ups and downs of being a smart, quirky person in a world that doesn't always understand our intensity or get our jokes. Framed by weekly topics, this discussion series is all about celebrating ourselves and the other gifted adults in our lives.

Each session is guided by experienced facilitators. Participants will have opportunities to learn, ask questions, share their experiences, and listen to others. Topics include intensity, imposter syndrome, overthinking, finding purpose, and more. After each session, participants receive a summary of key insights along with access to a shared folder of practical resources that grows throughout the series.

FAQs

What does it mean to be a gifted adult?

It’s not about high grades, a test score, or a label from childhood. Many gifted adults experience things like deep curiosity, intense interests, big-picture thinking, strong emotions, perfectionism, or feeling a little out of step with others. Some were identified as children, many were not.

What if I was never identified?
That’s incredibly common. Identification practices have changed over time, and many capable people, especially those who were twice-exceptional, culturally or linguistically diverse, or just good at masking, were overlooked. No proof of giftedness is ever required for our groups.

What actually happens in the group?
The group is 6 weeks of guided discussion with curated resources that provide context for our conversations. We talk about the real-life side of being a bright, intense, complex adult– things like burnout, overthinking, intensity, purpose, relationships, career fit, and managing a brain that doesn’t always come with an off switch. It’s supportive, thoughtful, and confidential.

Who is this really for?
People who have often felt “too much” or “not quite like everyone else.” People who think deeply. People who are still figuring themselves out. People who want conversation that goes beyond small talk.

Giftedness in adulthood often shows up as how you think and experience the world, more qualitative than quantitative.

Caregiver Conversations are subject to cancellation if minimum enrollment is not met.

Date: Tuesdays, April 6 - May 11, 2027

Time: 7:00 to 8:15 pm Central Time

Discussion Guides: Carol Malueg and Joan Larson

Cost: $150 per household (partners welcome)
Contact support@giftedroads.com for scholarship availability or if you’d like to provide a scholarship for another attendee.

Location: Virtual, using Zoom — a Zoom link will be sent to all participants before the first meeting

Questions?

Let us know if you have any questions! We’ll be happy to hear from you. You’re welcome here.

~Gifted Roads, Email carol@malueg.com

What parents have said about Caregiver Conversations:

“This was not the typical powerpoint presentation with following Q&A. The entire process was guided conversations about what participants are facing with each of the points covered in the sessions' agenda and more. We got to know each other in this authentic environment and became more friends than participants. Thank you!” ~ Nichole S.

“This was fabulous; informative, open-minded, supportive and fun.” ~ Nichole S.

“So great to not feel alone!” ~ Jill S.

“I had never before thought about myself as being gifted. This realization has helped me understand my child better.” ~ S.B.

“The leads and participants in the class were so welcoming and open. I truly appreciate what everyone brought to the conversations.” ~ S.B.

Exploring Our Own Giftedness - A Discussion Group for Gifted & Multi-Exceptional Adults (no test score required) (April 13, 2027)

Wed, 14 Apr 2027 00:00:00 GMT

Gifted Roads ~
Support & Resources for Gifted and Multi-Exceptional People

Exploring Our Own Giftedness -
A Discussion Group for Gifted & Multi-Exceptional Adults (no test score required)

6 Sessions

Tuesdays, April 6 - May 11, 2027
7:00 - 8:15pm CDT Via Zoom

FAQs

What does it mean to be a gifted adult?

Giftedness in adulthood often shows up as how you think and experience the world, more qualitative than quantitative.

Caregiver Conversations are subject to cancellation if minimum enrollment is not met.

Date: Tuesdays, April 6 - May 11, 2027

Time: 7:00 to 8:15 pm Central Time

Discussion Guides: Carol Malueg and Joan Larson

Cost: $150 per household (partners welcome)
Contact support@giftedroads.com for scholarship availability or if you’d like to provide a scholarship for another attendee.

Location: Virtual, using Zoom — a Zoom link will be sent to all participants before the first meeting

Questions?

Let us know if you have any questions! We’ll be happy to hear from you. You’re welcome here.

~Gifted Roads, Email carol@malueg.com

“This was fabulous; informative, open-minded, supportive and fun.” ~ Nichole S.

“So great to not feel alone!” ~ Jill S.

“I had never before thought about myself as being gifted. This realization has helped me understand my child better.” ~ S.B.

“The leads and participants in the class were so welcoming and open. I truly appreciate what everyone brought to the conversations.” ~ S.B.

Exploring Our Own Giftedness - A Discussion Group for Gifted & Multi-Exceptional Adults (no test score required) (April 20, 2027)

Wed, 21 Apr 2027 00:00:00 GMT

Gifted Roads ~
Support & Resources for Gifted and Multi-Exceptional People

Exploring Our Own Giftedness -
A Discussion Group for Gifted & Multi-Exceptional Adults (no test score required)

6 Sessions

Tuesdays, April 6 - May 11, 2027
7:00 - 8:15pm CDT Via Zoom

FAQs

What does it mean to be a gifted adult?

Giftedness in adulthood often shows up as how you think and experience the world, more qualitative than quantitative.

Caregiver Conversations are subject to cancellation if minimum enrollment is not met.

Date: Tuesdays, April 6 - May 11, 2027

Time: 7:00 to 8:15 pm Central Time

Discussion Guides: Carol Malueg and Joan Larson

Cost: $150 per household (partners welcome)
Contact support@giftedroads.com for scholarship availability or if you’d like to provide a scholarship for another attendee.

Location: Virtual, using Zoom — a Zoom link will be sent to all participants before the first meeting

Questions?

Let us know if you have any questions! We’ll be happy to hear from you. You’re welcome here.

~Gifted Roads, Email carol@malueg.com

“This was fabulous; informative, open-minded, supportive and fun.” ~ Nichole S.

“So great to not feel alone!” ~ Jill S.

“I had never before thought about myself as being gifted. This realization has helped me understand my child better.” ~ S.B.

“The leads and participants in the class were so welcoming and open. I truly appreciate what everyone brought to the conversations.” ~ S.B.

Social and Emotional Needs of Gifted and Talented Learners (April 21, 2027)

Wed, 21 Apr 2027 17:00:00 GMT

A Virtual Professional Learning Series

Social and Emotional Needs of Gifted and Talented Learners

Registration is required.

4 Sessions, Wednesdays, 12:00-2:00pm CT

October 21, 2026
December 16, 2026
February 17, 2027
April 21, 2027

All sessions will be recorded and available following the presentation. CEUs will be provided. The fee for the series is $100.

Who Should Attend:
Educators, counselors, administrators, gifted education specialists & coordinators, and psychologists.

Cost: $100 for the 4-session series
$10 invoicing fee applies to all invoices, invoice 30 days after first workshop

Additional Details:

Virtual format - Zoom link will be emailed prior to each session
Earn 8 CEUs from the Minnesota Department of Education
All sessions will be recorded and available to registrants following the event

This series is proudly presented in collaboration with the Minnesota Department of Education and the Minnesota Council for Gifted and Talented.

Contact - Registration Questions: Jennifer Farner, MCGT, info@mcgt.net

Contact - Program Questions: Wendy Behrens, 651.582.8786, wendy.behrens@state.mn.us

If you are paying by check or purchase order, please make your check payable to MCGT (Minnesota Council for the Gifted & Talented) and mail to:

Minnesota Council for the Gifted & Talented

PO Box 143

Hopkins, MN 55343

Exploring Our Own Giftedness - A Discussion Group for Gifted & Multi-Exceptional Adults (no test score required) (April 27, 2027)

Wed, 28 Apr 2027 00:00:00 GMT

Gifted Roads ~
Support & Resources for Gifted and Multi-Exceptional People

Exploring Our Own Giftedness -
A Discussion Group for Gifted & Multi-Exceptional Adults (no test score required)

6 Sessions

Tuesdays, April 6 - May 11, 2027
7:00 - 8:15pm CDT Via Zoom

FAQs

What does it mean to be a gifted adult?

Giftedness in adulthood often shows up as how you think and experience the world, more qualitative than quantitative.

Caregiver Conversations are subject to cancellation if minimum enrollment is not met.

Date: Tuesdays, April 6 - May 11, 2027

Time: 7:00 to 8:15 pm Central Time

Discussion Guides: Carol Malueg and Joan Larson

Cost: $150 per household (partners welcome)
Contact support@giftedroads.com for scholarship availability or if you’d like to provide a scholarship for another attendee.

Location: Virtual, using Zoom — a Zoom link will be sent to all participants before the first meeting

Questions?

Let us know if you have any questions! We’ll be happy to hear from you. You’re welcome here.

~Gifted Roads, Email carol@malueg.com

“This was fabulous; informative, open-minded, supportive and fun.” ~ Nichole S.

“So great to not feel alone!” ~ Jill S.

“I had never before thought about myself as being gifted. This realization has helped me understand my child better.” ~ S.B.

“The leads and participants in the class were so welcoming and open. I truly appreciate what everyone brought to the conversations.” ~ S.B.

Exploring Our Own Giftedness - A Discussion Group for Gifted & Multi-Exceptional Adults (no test score required) (May 04, 2027)

Wed, 05 May 2027 00:00:00 GMT

Gifted Roads ~
Support & Resources for Gifted and Multi-Exceptional People

Exploring Our Own Giftedness -
A Discussion Group for Gifted & Multi-Exceptional Adults (no test score required)

6 Sessions

Tuesdays, April 6 - May 11, 2027
7:00 - 8:15pm CDT Via Zoom

FAQs

What does it mean to be a gifted adult?

Giftedness in adulthood often shows up as how you think and experience the world, more qualitative than quantitative.

Caregiver Conversations are subject to cancellation if minimum enrollment is not met.

Date: Tuesdays, April 6 - May 11, 2027

Time: 7:00 to 8:15 pm Central Time

Discussion Guides: Carol Malueg and Joan Larson

Cost: $150 per household (partners welcome)
Contact support@giftedroads.com for scholarship availability or if you’d like to provide a scholarship for another attendee.

Location: Virtual, using Zoom — a Zoom link will be sent to all participants before the first meeting

Questions?

Let us know if you have any questions! We’ll be happy to hear from you. You’re welcome here.

~Gifted Roads, Email carol@malueg.com

“This was fabulous; informative, open-minded, supportive and fun.” ~ Nichole S.

“So great to not feel alone!” ~ Jill S.

“I had never before thought about myself as being gifted. This realization has helped me understand my child better.” ~ S.B.

“The leads and participants in the class were so welcoming and open. I truly appreciate what everyone brought to the conversations.” ~ S.B.

Exploring Our Own Giftedness - A Discussion Group for Gifted & Multi-Exceptional Adults (no test score required) (May 11, 2027)

Wed, 12 May 2027 00:00:00 GMT

Gifted Roads ~
Support & Resources for Gifted and Multi-Exceptional People

Exploring Our Own Giftedness -
A Discussion Group for Gifted & Multi-Exceptional Adults (no test score required)

6 Sessions

Tuesdays, April 6 - May 11, 2027
7:00 - 8:15pm CDT Via Zoom

FAQs

What does it mean to be a gifted adult?

Giftedness in adulthood often shows up as how you think and experience the world, more qualitative than quantitative.

Caregiver Conversations are subject to cancellation if minimum enrollment is not met.

Date: Tuesdays, April 6 - May 11, 2027

Time: 7:00 to 8:15 pm Central Time

Discussion Guides: Carol Malueg and Joan Larson

Cost: $150 per household (partners welcome)
Contact support@giftedroads.com for scholarship availability or if you’d like to provide a scholarship for another attendee.

Location: Virtual, using Zoom — a Zoom link will be sent to all participants before the first meeting

Questions?

Let us know if you have any questions! We’ll be happy to hear from you. You’re welcome here.

~Gifted Roads, Email carol@malueg.com

“This was fabulous; informative, open-minded, supportive and fun.” ~ Nichole S.

“So great to not feel alone!” ~ Jill S.

“I had never before thought about myself as being gifted. This realization has helped me understand my child better.” ~ S.B.

“The leads and participants in the class were so welcoming and open. I truly appreciate what everyone brought to the conversations.” ~ S.B.

Minnesota Council for the Gifted & Talented upcoming events

PDA and Co-Regulation: A 2 Part Series for those working with 2E Children (November 13, 2026)

February 26, 2027 Co-Regulation and Self-Regulation: Responsive Guidance for Gifted Children and Their Families

Neurodiversity and Giftedness: Supporting Exceptional Learners (November 14, 2026)

Gifted Adult Community Group Second Annual Friendsgiving (November 19, 2026)

Let's Stop Crashing Into Writing (December 01, 2026)

Social and Emotional Needs of Gifted and Talented Learners (December 16, 2026)

A Virtual Professional Learning Series

Social and Emotional Needs of Gifted and Talented Learners

16 Bar Bingo: Holiday Edition, Gifted Adult Community Group (December 21, 2026)

Raising Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids: Caregiver Conversations (January 12, 2027)

Raising Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids: Caregiver Conversations (January 19, 2027)

Raising Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids: Caregiver Conversations (January 26, 2027)

Raising Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids: Caregiver Conversations (February 02, 2027)

Raising Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids: Caregiver Conversations (February 09, 2027)

Raising Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Kids: Caregiver Conversations (February 16, 2027)

Social and Emotional Needs of Gifted and Talented Learners (February 17, 2027)

A Virtual Professional Learning Series

Social and Emotional Needs of Gifted and Talented Learners

PDA and Co-Regulation: A 2 Part Series for those working with 2E Children (February 26, 2027)

February 26, 2027 Co-Regulation and Self-Regulation: Responsive Guidance for Gifted Children and Their Families

Exploring Our Own Giftedness - A Discussion Group for Gifted & Multi-Exceptional Adults (no test score required) (April 06, 2027)

Exploring Our Own Giftedness - A Discussion Group for Gifted & Multi-Exceptional Adults (no test score required) (April 13, 2027)

Exploring Our Own Giftedness - A Discussion Group for Gifted & Multi-Exceptional Adults (no test score required) (April 20, 2027)

Social and Emotional Needs of Gifted and Talented Learners (April 21, 2027)

A Virtual Professional Learning Series

Social and Emotional Needs of Gifted and Talented Learners

Exploring Our Own Giftedness - A Discussion Group for Gifted & Multi-Exceptional Adults (no test score required) (April 27, 2027)

Exploring Our Own Giftedness - A Discussion Group for Gifted & Multi-Exceptional Adults (no test score required) (May 04, 2027)

Exploring Our Own Giftedness - A Discussion Group for Gifted & Multi-Exceptional Adults (no test score required) (May 11, 2027)

February 26, 2027
Co-Regulation and Self-Regulation: Responsive Guidance for Gifted Children and Their Families

February 26, 2027
Co-Regulation and Self-Regulation: Responsive Guidance for Gifted Children and Their Families