Chicago Gifted Community Center upcoming events

Keeping Twice-Exceptional Kids Safe Online (October 15, 2026)

Thu, 15 Oct 2026 17:00:00 GMT

The internet can be an amazing place for twice-exceptional (2e) kids to learn, connect, and dive deep into what they love. But some of the same traits that make our kids unique can also create risks online. In this practical webinar, cybersecurity leader and CGCC President Tabitha Flax will help parents and caregivers understand those risks, from cyberbullying and scams to exploitation and AI companions. You’ll leave with simple, strengths-based ways to set boundaries, start conversations, and stay connected to your child’s online world—without relying on fear or surveillance. Join us to help your 2e kid explore online spaces more safely and confidently.

Learning Outcomes

Attendees will:

Understand how common 2e traits can shape a child’s experiences and risks online.
Recognize current concerns, including cyberbullying, exploitation, scams, and AI companions.
Learn practical ways to set boundaries and talk about online safety while keeping communication open.

About the Presenter

Tabitha Flax, President of the Chicago Gifted Community Center (CGCC), will lead this presentation. Tabitha is also CEO of Haystack Solutions and brings more than 20 years of experience in IT and cybersecurity, including leadership roles with ISC2, SANS Institute, and ISACA. Throughout her career, she has been passionate about recognizing talent and potential that traditional systems can overlook. As CGCC President, Tabitha works to strengthen community, resources, and advocacy for gifted and twice-exceptional children and their families. This webinar brings together two areas deeply important to her: helping 2e kids thrive as their authentic selves and giving families practical tools to help them navigate the online world safely.

CGCC Parent Support Dinner Rosemont (October 21, 2026)

Wed, 21 Oct 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Connect, share experiences, and build a supportive community with other parents of bright, complex, and gifted children. Join us for a relaxed evening of conversation, encouragement, and connection with parents who understand the unique joys and challenges of raising exceptional kids.

We'll be gathering at Crust Brewing, where you can enjoy dinner, appetizers, dessert, or simply a beverage while spending time with fellow parents in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Please register in advance so we can reserve adequate space for the group. This is a free event, with each attendee responsible for their own food and beverage purchases. If your plans change after registering, we kindly ask that you reply to the confirmation email so we can adjust our reservation accordingly.

We look forward to seeing you and kicking off the school year together!

Walking the Journey of Parenting Bright, Complex Kids (October 28, 2026)

Thu, 29 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Come share your journey with other parents in this monthly discussion group facilitated by CGCC Board members.

While conversation topics are flexible based on the needs of attendees, we will begin with a discussion about Dr. Ross Greene's book excerpt in Psychology Today, The Kids Who Aren't Okay.

A Neuro-Affirming Model for Gifted and 2E Students (November 04, 2026)

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Gifted and Twice-exceptional students often need support in school settings that is positive instead of punitive. Ross Greene, the author of "The Explosive Child," developed a method of working with children called Collaborative and Proactive Solutions. In this presentation, Aileen will share how this method can be used with gifted and twice-exceptional children. She will also share what school accommodations can be helpful for common concerns like executive functioning issues.

About the Presenter

Aileen Kelleher, CGCC Board member, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with gifted and twice-exceptional children, adults and families. She was born and raised in Chicago and currently lives on the North side with her daughter. She loves to learn and share information about giftedness and neurodiversity, and is passionate about the power of community for gifted/2E people and families.

Scientific Modeling Workshop (November 17, 2026)

Tue, 17 Nov 2026 18:30:00 GMT

Free Computational Modeling Workshop for Homeschoolers Hosted by the NetLogo Center at Northwestern University and CGCC
The NetLogo Center at Northwestern University will offer a free workshop introducing computational modeling to homeschooled students. NetLogo is a powerful yet accessible tool that empowers students to build and experiment with computer models of complex systems from forest fires to disease spread to economic patterns. Here is a 7-minute video explaining NetLogo with several examples. NetLogo's founder, Uri Wilensky, recently received the 2025 Yidan Prize, sometimes called the "Nobel Prize of education," for his work making complex systems literacy accessible to all with NetLogo.
In this 2 hour session, students will explore interactive computer models of real scientific phenomena, and begin learning how to modify and build their own models. Unlike pre-built simulations, NetLogo is designed so that students not only experiment with models, but can modify them and create them from scratch. This combines scientific thinking, creativity, and programming all in one. NetLogo is used by researchers worldwide and has appeared in thousands of scientific publications, yet it is accessible enough for young students with no prior experience to dive right in. The workshop will be led by Jacob Kelter, director of the NetLogo Center.
What students will gain:
An introduction to using computational models to understand scientific phenomena and patterns
Hands-on experience with a tool used by both students and professional scientists
Exposure to cross-disciplinary scientific thinking and modeling literacy
Details:
Cost: Free
Who: Open to homeschool students of various ages (around 8 through high school). NetLogo's design means younger and older students can engage at their own level.
Supplies to bring: We'll need a laptop or tablet for every 1-2 students. Indicate in the form below if you can bring one.
In addition to availability, we'll ask a few quick questions about your student's age, experience level, and topic interests so we can tailor the session to the group:
Interest form here — Google Form Link
If you have questions, reach out to Jacob directly at jacobkelter@northwestern.edu

Walking the Journey of Parenting Bright, Complex Kids (November 18, 2026)

Thu, 19 Nov 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Come share your journey with other parents in this monthly discussion group facilitated by CGCC Board members.

While conversation topics are flexible based on the needs of attendees, we will begin with a discussion of the various organizations where you can find more information to help inform your parenting journey.

Walking the Journey of Parenting Bright, Complex Kids (December 16, 2026)

Thu, 17 Dec 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Come share your journey with other parents in this monthly discussion group facilitated by CGCC Board members.

Conversation topics are flexible based on the needs of attendees.

Walking the Journey of Parenting Bright, Complex Kids (January 20, 2027)

Thu, 21 Jan 2027 01:00:00 GMT

Come share your journey with other parents in this monthly discussion group facilitated by CGCC Board members.

Conversation topics are flexible based on the needs of attendees.

Walking the Journey of Parenting Bright, Complex Kids (February 17, 2027)

Thu, 18 Feb 2027 01:00:00 GMT

Come share your journey with other parents in this monthly discussion group facilitated by CGCC Board members.

Conversation topics are flexible based on the needs of attendees.

Walking the Journey of Parenting Bright, Complex Kids (March 17, 2027)

Thu, 18 Mar 2027 00:00:00 GMT

Come share your journey with other parents in this monthly discussion group facilitated by CGCC Board members.

Conversation topics are flexible based on the needs of attendees.

Walking the Journey of Parenting Bright, Complex Kids (April 21, 2027)

Thu, 22 Apr 2027 00:00:00 GMT

Come share your journey with other parents in this monthly discussion group facilitated by CGCC Board members.

Conversation topics are flexible based on the needs of attendees.

Walking the Journey of Parenting Bright, Complex Kids (May 19, 2027)

Thu, 20 May 2027 00:00:00 GMT

Come share your journey with other parents in this monthly discussion group facilitated by CGCC Board members.

Conversation topics are flexible based on the needs of attendees.