What does it mean to be “neurodivergent”?
When someone thinks, learns, or behaves differently from their peers, they may be “neurodivergent”. This means that they may have a brain that works in ways that are different to other people. Someone who is neurodivergent can have strengths that are unique to them, along with challenges or struggles that are different from what their peers may experience in the same situation. Examples of who may be considered neurodivergent could be those who identify as having autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Down syndrome, oppositional defiant disorder, dyspraxia, social anxiety, learning disabilities, and more.
Why do we use the term “neurodivergent”?
The term “neurodivergent” became a word to describe someone whose brain works differently – this is something to celebrate! Those who are neurodivergent have incredible skills, ideas, and abilities that make them unique, and that they can contribute to their community. By understanding that every person is capable of great things regardless of if they are neurodivergent or are neurotypical, we can support those who are neurodivergent with gaining skills that will help them to succeed in all that they want to achieve.
How do I know if someone is neurodivergent?
If you think that someone you know (including yourself!) might be neurodivergent, you can discuss the possibility with your healthcare provider. They will be able to direct you to resources in your community that can help care for either you or the person you are supporting on the journey to gain personalized information on neurodivergence.
How do I support my neurodivergent child?
To support your neurodivergent child, it is first important to understand that each neurodivergent person is unique, and that what works for one child might not work for another. These are some strategies that may be helpful to remember when learning about neurodivergence:
1. Continue to Care: If your child has been recently identified as neurodivergent, it is valuable to remember that they are the same child they were before learning that they are neurodivergent. This means that all of the amazing things that made them the extraordinary child that you care for and love are still the things that make them unique and special!
2. Listen: Some kids who identify as neurodivergent will let you know how to best support them. This might include strategies to help them identify when they understand something in a way that is different from someone else, or ways to help them succeed in their day. It is important to listen to what they are telling you works best for them. For children who are not able to tell what strategies are helpful, watch for their “signs”. These signs show if something is helpful or not. They differ for each child but might include things like smiling when you are doing something, coming to you so that you keep doing what you are doing, or they are actively participating in the things you are doing together for support.
3. Treat them with Respect: Talk about neurodivergence both with your child and other people in the child’s life to help make it more normal to others. If your child needs an adaptation to help
them thrive, it is encouraged to make the changes as support. Continue to assume they are capable of great things to help them succeed!