From a parent’s perspective
Neurodiversity, simply put
People think, learn, and experience the world in different ways. Neurodiversity is a word for that variety.
Start with your child
We approach this as parents: what does our child enjoy, what feels difficult, and what helps them feel understood?
Different families, different needs
Something that helps one child may not help another. We can listen to each other and share ideas without expecting every family to follow the same path.
ADHD: more than occasional distraction
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder involving inattention and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity. The National Institute of Mental Health distinguishes it from occasional distraction or restlessness: the difficulties are frequent, occur across multiple situations, and interfere with daily life.
Autism: individual abilities and needs vary
Autism is a developmental disability that can affect communication, social interaction, and behavior. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasizes that autistic people’s abilities and daily support needs vary significantly. One person’s experience cannot stand in for everyone’s.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: About Autism Spectrum Disorder
Understanding and support belong together
Respecting differences does not mean overlooking difficulties. We want families to feel heard and able to ask for the support their child needs.