Understanding Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity is a movement to support people outside of the mainstream in the way their brains work and focuses on developing their strengths and talents. The Child Mind Institute describes neurodiversity as the differences in the way people’s brains work. Everyone’s brain function is unique, and there is a wide range of ways that people perceive and respond to the world. Differences are to be embraced and encouraged.

This movement acknowledges that Autism, ADHD, and Learning Disabilities (LDs) cause impairments and can create obstacles that get in the way of people doing the things they want to do. However, as a framework, neurodiversity is about understanding human brain function and argues that diversity in human cognition is normal, and these differences can also bring gifts.