Neurodiversity is a term that is becoming more common, especially in discussions around mental health, learning differences, and disabilities. But what exactly does it mean? In this blog post, we’ll explain neurodivergence in easy to understand terms, explore common neurodivergent traits, and offer practical advice for parents to help their children thrive.
What Does Neurodiversity Mean?
Neurodiversity refers to the idea that there are many different ways that the brain can function, process information, and develop. It emphasizes that differences in thinking, learning, and processing should not be viewed as deficits or disorders (as has been common in the past and currently), but as variations of the human experience. A neurodivergent individual may think, learn, or behave in ways that are different from societal norms, but this doesn’t mean something is wrong.
The term “neurodivergence” was coined in the late 1990s by sociologist Judy Singer, an advocate for autism. It quickly gained traction in both scientific and advocacy communities, helping to reshape the way people think about neurological differences. Neurodivergence celebrates the fact that people’s brains work in diverse ways, and that these differences should be acknowledged and respected.
Common Types of Neurodiversity
There are many differences that fall under the umbrella of neurodivergence. It's important to note that each person’s experience is unique. Some of the most common types include:
1. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism is a developmental disorder that affects how a person thinks, interacts with others, and experiences the world. People with autism often have unique sensory experiences, social communication styles, and ways of learning. Autism is called a "spectrum" because it includes a wide range of abilities and challenges, from highly skilled individuals to those who require more support.
2. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is a condition that affects attention, impulse control, activity levels, as well as executive functioning. Individuals with ADHD might have trouble focusing on tasks, sitting still, or organizing their thoughts. However, many individuals with ADHD are also highly creative, energetic, and can hyper-focus on tasks they are passionate about.
3. Learning Differences, such as Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a learning difference that affects reading and language processing. A child with dyslexia might have difficulty decoding (sounding out) words, understanding text, or spelling. However, they often excel in other areas like problem-solving or creative thinking.
4. Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)
Dyspraxia affects motor skills and coordination. Children with dyspraxia may struggle with tasks like writing, tying shoelaces, or playing sports, but they often possess exceptional cognitive abilities in other areas.
5. Other Neurodivergent Conditions
There are other conditions, such as anxiety, intellectual disabilities, or specific learning disorders, that may also be considered part of the neurodivergent spectrum.
Embracing Neurodiversity: Why It Matters
Understanding neurodiversity is essential because it helps break down societal barriers and fosters inclusion. Neurodivergent individuals often face challenges because their way of thinking is not always understood or valued in traditional settings such as schools or workplaces. Looking back on my childhood, I can think of many times that neurodiverse individuals got in trouble for how their brains were made. The student who needed to fidget with something in order to pay attention was scolded and told to “put that away”. The student who had more energy was repeatedly reminded to “sit down” or to “stop leaning back in your chair”. Do any of these sound familiar? But when differences are recognized and celebrated, neurodiverse individuals and really all individuals can thrive.
It’s also important to remember that neurodivergence is not a “one-size-fits-all” label. Every neurodivergent child has a unique set of strengths and challenges. Dr. Stephen Shore coined the helpful reminder: “If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.” Which is a helpful reminder that any neurodiverse individual has their own, unique strengths and differences. Just because a student may have a diagnosis, does not mean that their experience will be like another student’s experience. Neurodivergent individuals, just like all individuals, possess areas of difference and strength.
How Can Parents Support Their Neurodivergent Child?
As a parent, supporting a neurodivergent child can feel daunting at times. You often have to wear different hats: parent, advocate, and educator. This can often feel overwhelming. The following ideas can help.
1. Educate Yourself
Take the time to learn about your child’s specific neurodivergence. There are many resources available to help you better understand your child’s experience. Speaking to specialists or seeking out online communities where you can connect with other parents are great places to start. We have information on our website about different types of neurodiversity, as well as some resources.
2. Create an Inclusive Home Environment (or as inclusive as possible)
Make your home a space where your child feels comfortable, valued, and understood. This may include modifying sensory input, offering structure, or using alternative methods for communication and learning. At a basic level, this could look like a calming space (like a tent or the corner of a room) where calming activities are readily available. This could also look like a home where your child can be themselves, jumping when they need to jump or interrupting when they simply cannot wait.
3. Be Patient and Flexible
Children with neurodivergent traits often need more time to process information and adapt to new situations. This might look like extra time to transition between activities or more time to process a request. This might also look like leaving early from a place that is “too much” for your child. Too loud, too busy, too overwhelming. Being patient and flexible helps reduce stress and build your child’s confidence.
4. Focus on Strengths
While it’s important to support areas where your child may struggle, it’s just as important to nurture their strengths. Celebrate their unique talents, whether they’re in creative, academic, or social areas. Sometimes, this can be as easy as noticing those things that come more naturally for your child and asking about that. You might say, “Look at all of the colors you used while creating this picture. Tell me about it”.
5. Advocate for Your Child
As parents, we are often asked to advocate for our child. As a parent of a neurodiverse child, this is especially necessary and important. Don’t be afraid to ask for the support that they need, whether it’s within the classroom, at an extracurricular activity, or within the community. You might be the first person to ask for something different and your bravery could open doors for other children who also need something different. Your advocacy helps build a more inclusive world for others.
Neurodivergence is normal and amazing. Every child and individual is unique, and learning more about neurodiversity helps everyone. By understanding and celebrating neurodivergence, we can foster environments that allow all children to flourish.
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