Neurodiversity: What is it & Strategies

Neurodiversity is the concept that neurological differences between people should be recognised

and respected. Instead of using terms like ’dys – function’ ‘dis- abilities’ & ‘dis-orders’ neurodiversity is an

enabling term that takes into account neurological differences. Neurodiversity – is not one size fits all.

We are all different and neurodiversity celebrates difference.

Below are some of the diagnosis and environmental factors that would be considered in Neurodiversity.

I personally love the term neurodiversity, as many children I meet don’t have official “labels” yet, but their family, educators, etc. notice their different way of engaging in learning. My passion is to ensure these children get the most out of their educational settings by putting in place strategies and accommodations that support their specific learning style.

One way to do this is to put in place strategies to ‘make learning fun’.

Neurodiversity – Actionable Example Strategies from the Podcast for Educators:

1. Use turn-taking strategies for activities like writing or puzzles
2. Stop activities while students are still enjoying them to maintain interest
3. Incorporate games to teach various concepts
4. Use timers to help students manage time and stay focused
5. Employ scribes or typing tools for students who struggle with handwriting
6. Implement quick task-quick reward systems
7. Include movement breaks between learning activities
8. Utilize students’ strengths in every lesson
9. Make mistakes a positive learning experience
10. Use music to make routine tasks more enjoyable

Understanding Neurodiversity Acronyms

Ever wanted to know what all the neurodiversity terms were?

Download this sheet for explaining neurodiverse terms and details

For even more strategies and Ideas for teaching students with Neurodiversity – 

Video Modelling to Support Neurodiverse Learning at School and Home

A Guide to Help Kids Enjoy and Feel Confident About Writing

Teaching Kids Skills Through Board Games