Intro to Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity

Defining Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity understands that neurological differences are a “normal and natural variation in the human genome” (Robison, 2013). Specifically, we believe that we have a responsibility to understand differences and celebrate diversity for individuals whose “neurological predispositions are not typical” (McGee, 2012).

Terms

Exceptional - An exceptional child is one who is different in both easy and hard ways, in comparison to the average child  in mental, physical, emotional and social characteristics to an extent where  special educational services are needed (Heward, 2012).

Complex - Combination of physical, intellectual, health, behavioural, emotional and welfare needs along a continuum of complexity which often challenges the social, educational and health structures available to support them (Whitehurst, 2010).

Neurodiverse - Diverse neurologies are normal variations within the human genome and include ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia (Disabled World, 2020), FASD, and others. Brain wiring that is different or atypical when compared to the average population (Eusebio, 2018).

Neurocomplex - Umbrella term includes neurodiversity, or the neurological differences we live with, as considered by neurologists,  our personal experience as we live with differences, as well as the world’s reaction and treatment of us (Taylor, 2021).

Strengths within Neurodiversity

• Dyslexia - Good spatial knowledge. Many of the world’s top architects and designers have dyslexia. Business entrepreneurs - Thomas Edison & Steve Jobs
• ADHD - Energetic and successful at work, school, and sports. Studies show people with ADHD can become hyper focused and will complete an assignment until it’s done.
• Anxiety - Built-in warning system. Although it can be frustrating, there also is a purpose to anxiety! Strong leadership and people who are anxious can consider all the possible outcomes.
• Autism - Concrete thinking: Math, computer, musical, artistic skills. Can think in a visual way.

Understanding Brain Differences

• Neuro-typical and neurodiverse brains each have gifts. The gifts of a neurodiverse brain must be balanced by things we may struggle with.
• A complex brain has variable development.
• Multiple differences: Mental health, neurological and cognitive differences interact to create a more complex brain and sensitivities/differences.

Variable Development

A neurologically diverse brain is not necessarily developing smoothly and evenly as typically-wired brains do. In regards to cognitive ability, many things have been said about who is and who isn’t intelligent. As measured with standardized intelligence tests, our cognitive ability is considered to be stable over time in normal school-age children.

What Does This Mean?

Children hit specific milestones at certain ages, whereas neurodiverse children more often have varied patterns of development within their developmental domains.

Learning to balance the strengths and challenges associated with being wired differently.

Lightbulb moments - where people with neurodiversity make a developmental leap in a relatively short amount of time.

Some Challenges:

1. Expectations for children are often that of an adult: Self-regulating, using verbal communication. This part of their brain is not yet developed.
2. We tend to focus on the behaviours that frustrate or confuse us instead of the child’s needs that are not being met.
3. Behaviour is information and an expression of a root cause. There is always a good reason even if the child or those around them don’t understand it yet.

Supporting Those with Neurodiversities

When we are calm and regulated we will be better able to help our child become calm and regulated. Our response is important.

Helpful Responses

1. Low and Slow Technique
2. Agree, validate and provide choices (AVP)
   • First/then
   • Yes, when
3. Soothing ourselves to help soothe the child’s nervous system
   • Curiosity
   • Knowledge/understanding

Building on Positive Attachment

1. Let them see your delight in them
2. Be close by
3. Invite them to depend on you
4. Connect before directing
5. Decide for them
6. Be on their side

Calming Activities

Make a list (visuals are great) of calming activities with the child. Examples include, a soft blanket, drawing, LEGO building, a walk outside, music, being near animals, etc.