Neurodiversity in Children and Teens

Neurodiversity is a word that basically describes the ways a variety of people think. 

It is used to destigmatize the different ways people’s brains work, the idea being that there is no “normal” or “correct” way. There are, instead, many ways that people learn, think, and retain information. 

This is especially important when discussing children and teens, because this affects the way that schools determine their approach to neurodiversity. 

Teachers and school staff could either teach only in one style, or they could be informed about the different ways both neurotypical and neurodivergent children process information and understand that they may require more support. 

The idea of neurodiversity is not only to be informed about it, but also to encourage and embrace the differences between people and the way their brains work. 

Neurodiversity also emphasizes the strengths that kids and teens have because of the way that their minds work. A major goal is for people to make life more accessible to those who see the world differently, instead of assuming everybody sees things from the same perspective.

So, what populations are considered neurodivergent?

People with diagnoses such as Autism, Learning Disorders, and ADHD are among those considered to be neurodivergent.

They learn differently, they express themselves differently, they have different talents, and they thrive in different environments.

Knowing this, it would be beneficial for them to receive information in ways that use and play on their strengths.

With all of this being said, learning about neurodiversity is important because more and more children and adolescents are identifying as neurodivergent. It is becoming increasingly common, especially with the internet and forums where a lot of information exists about these diagnoses.

Regardless of a formal diagnosis, kids and teens who recognize that they think differently than the majority of their peers may find a sense of community with the neurodivergent population.

It can also help them form a sense of identity and autonomy when they find their space and place in the world, and feel less alone to learn that others think the same way as them.

What can you do as a parent of a kid or teen who either has a formal diagnosis that is considered neurodivergent, or of a kid or teen who self-identifies as neurodivergent?

You can empathize with the struggles or difficulties they may be having in school if there are little to no accommodations for the neurodiverse.

You can consider having them formally evaluated and diagnosed, especially if it would help their case in school and help their teachers see their perspective better.

You can support their feelings and sense of community and identity.

You can learn about neurodivergence, particularly in the way that your child presents or manifests it, and choose to focus on their strengths rather than seeing it as a weakness or less than. It is not a deficit simply because it is different.

You can also consider seeking additional support, such as a child or teen therapist, who can help them manage their big emotions that may come with the frustrations of living in a world that is not as accessible to them as to others. 

If your child or teen is neurodivergent, it’s also possible that they have some symptoms that can cause stress, such as anxiety, overstimulation, meltdowns, anger, and more. 

If you would like additional support, reach out to a therapist at Amel Counseling & Consulting today and schedule a free, 15-minute phone consultation. We want to help your kid/ teen thrive.