Beyond academics and peer relationships, this “third island of competence” offers mastery, identity, and genuine engagement, which are core ingredients that strengthen resilience. When young people immerse themselves in art, music, sports, or any personal passion, they build confidence, self-worth, and practical coping skills that help them navigate stress and adversity.

This presentation goes beyond supporting a child’s special interests. It invites parents and educators to consider how an engaged, curious child can strengthen resilience within the family and the broader school community. Parents, too, benefit from nurturing their own talents and interests, as well as from the supportive networks that can form when their child participates in meaningful activities. For families of children with special needs, time and energy can be limited, making this step feel overwhelming or out of reach. Yet even small, intentional investments in personal or family “islands of competence” can restore balance, model resilience, and create shared moments of growth.

For educators and counselors, encouraging students to explore and deepen their interests and helping parents find space for their own can be a powerful strategy for fostering resilience across the entire school community. Join this discussion of how everyone can build resilience through the power of talents and special interests!