Resources for Parents with Neurodivergent Kids
The phrase "neurodiversity" appears to be used a lot these days. However, what exactly does the term "neurodiverse" actually mean?
What is a neurodivergent kid?
In the 1990s, sociologist Judy Singer disapproved of the idea that individuals with autism were labelled as "disabled." Singer, who acknowledges that she is autistic, promoted the idea that the autistic brain simply works differently from non-autistic brains. In other words, some children are born with brains that think, learn and process information differently than other children and with this view, there is nothing “wrong” with kids that have this difference. Instead, there is a wide range of ways that people perceive and respond to the world, and these differences should be embraced.
What are the different types of neurodiversity?
Autism or Autism Spectrum Conditions;
ADHD (Attentions Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) or ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder)
Cognitive functioning difficulties or executive dysfunction
Dyscalculia
Dysgraphia
Dyslexia
Dyspraxia or DCD (Development Coordination Disorder)
Misophonia
Slow processing speed
Stammering
Tourette’s syndrome
Resources for Understanding Neurodiversity
To learn more about neurodiversity, consider the following resources.
Understood, “Neurodiversity: What You Need to Know.” This article provides helpful definitions of neurodiversity and its core concepts, as well as a brief history of the movement.
Psychology Today, “Neurodiversity: The Movement.” In this article, you can read more about the advocacy work of the neurodiversity movement.
NowThis, “Human Neurodiversity Should Be Celebrated, Not Treated as a Disorder.” This op-ed video summarizes some of the main supportive arguments of the neurodiversity movement.
StuDocu, “40 Study Tips for Neurodiverse Students.” 40+ practical, easy to follow tips on creating healthy study habits and developing a plan for neurodiverse students, specifically those in college
Are there any benefits of neurodiversity in children?
A core objective of neurodiversity is to de-stigmatize different kinds of brain functionality, offering a framework for celebrating variations in how children think, learn and process information.
This positive perspective can benefit children in school:
By encouraging kids to identify their brain functionalities as differences to be celebrated, rather than disabilities to be feared, it empowers them to self-advocate within the classroom;
By giving children a positive way to think about their own neurodivergence, the neurodiversity movement encourages them to speak up about accommodations they may need in the classroom;
Neurodiversity also helps children cultivate self-esteem, viewing their differences not as impediments but simply as expressions of their uniqueness;
As these attitudes are cultivated in children, they become better prepared to handle their neurodivergence in college, in the workplace and throughout their adult lives.
The bottom line is that neurodiversity offers benefits not only in childhood but also adulthood.
When it comes to neurodivergent kids, it’s all about adapting strategies to create an environment that works well for their way of thinking.
Can counselling help neurodivergent kids?
Child therapists, counsellors and social workers take a neurodiversity-based approach to empower children with different brain functionalities to prepare for different challenges, throughout childhood, in school and as they transition into adulthood.
Specifically:
Counselling can prepare kids to improve their lives as neurodivergent people, as opposed to looking for a cure or a solution and this can inspire resilience and adaptability;
Counselling can show children how to discuss their own needs candidly without feeling any shame or stigma, which empowers them in self-advocacy;
In affirming neurodivergent identity, counselling can also connect kids (and their parents) with organizations, advocacy groups or support services that might provide more specialized help;
Counselling can show children how to think about their health and well-being on a holistic level, instructing on how to care for themselves in terms of sleep, nutrition, physical activity and more.
Resources to consider:
Sources from neurodiversityweek.com
30 Accommodations for Children with ADHD
9 Conditions Often Linked to ADHD
An Evidence Based Guide to Anxiety in Autism
Bullying and Autism Spectrum Disorders
A Handbook for Families: Information on Autism and ADHD in Children
Autism at home: A guide for parents, carers and professionals
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) or Dyspraxia - A Guide for Parents
Explaining dyslexia to children
Living with Tourette and TIC Disorders - A Guide for Patients and Families
Girls and Autism: Flying Under the Radar
“Stories That Never Stand Still” is a book celebrating what’s amazing and annoying, fun and funny, incredibly inspiring and wonderfully weird about ADHD. Written by people with ADHD for people with ADHD.
Whatever it is, we’re here for you.
Life is uncertain. Jobs are stressful. Parenting is hard. Relationships take work. Families can be dysfunctional. And sometimes, love hurts. When you’re confronted by feelings, events, or issues that are making your life challenging, it’s okay to ask for some help.
