Neurodiversity is a term that was developed by the neurodiversity movement and is used by people who have a neurological difference or condition and do not view themselves as neurotypical. Neurotypicality is used to describe people whose brain functions, ways of processing information and behaviours are seen to be standard.
Talking to children and young people about Neurodiversity
Everyone thinks and learns differently, and it is important to help children and young people build empathy and understanding in relation to this. Whether your child is neurodivergent or neurotypical, there are resources to support children to understand themselves, and the world around them.
Parent Club Scotland have a parent guide for talking to children about Neurodiversity. Young minds have a guide to talking to children about tricky topics. Neurodiversity week offer posters to show neurodivergent celebrities, comic books that focus on school 'superpowers' rather than the struggles and have created secondary and primary PowerPoints for children which focus on celebrating our unique strengths and differences. Twinkl have resources for teaching teenagers and children about neurodiversity.
Anna Freud Mentally Healthy Schools have produced toolkits for primary and secondary settings to encourage conversation and raise awareness of neurodiversity with pupils and staff.
Newsround have also produced a child friendly report on neurodiversity celebration week 2024 which includes the experiences of three of their neurodiverse press pack reporters.
Below are two videos from differing minds for children, which explore the different ways brains work, and encourage wider discussions around understanding neurodiversity and our wider world.
Books that celebrate neurodiversity
The following websites have collected some books that feature neurodiversity.
Advice for parents/carers
The Brain Trust also have advice for parents/carers whose child has recently been diagnosed with a Neurological condition, from a parent who has been through the process themselves. Two of the suggestions guided parents to look for trusted sources when doing their own research, and look for support within the community.
Support groups
- I am Autism Greater Manchester has a parent support group that meets monthly
- Manchester Parent Carer Forum offers support groups and drop in sessions across the Greater Manchester area
Research
While it is helpful to do your own research, there can also be information that is not helpful and products on sale that may not be beneficial for your child. Below are some links to charities and organisations with information that can help to build a greater understanding of your child.
- National Autistic Society
- I am Autism - Greater Manchester
- BBC Parents guide to ADHD
- British Dyslexia Association
- Dyscalculia
- Dyspraxia Foundation
Page updated: 08-05-2024