What is Neurodiversity?

Learning About How All Our Brains Are Amazing!

This page is designed to help young students learn about neurodiversy and discover ways to support friends and family members of nerudiverse individuals. The content provided here is sourced from various reliable resources and is freely available to share as needed. Teachers and parents are encouraged to use this page with students and are responsible for appropriately delivering the content in a way that aligns with their needs.

Have you ever heard the word neurodiversity before?

What do you think it means?

🧠 What is Neurodiversity?

There is no "right" way for a brain to work

Brains are like fingerprints – all different

Neurodiverse Conditions

ADHD, autism, learning differences, etc. = Neurodiverse

Who Belongs to the Neuroverse?

What is Autism or ASD?

What is ASD?

ASD stands for Autism Spectrum Disorder

Brain Characteristics

Autism means your brain likes routines and may notice things others don't.

Focus Power

People with autism are great at focusing on what they love!

  • It is a brain-based (neurological) condition that includes a
    combination of persistent problems such as difficulty with
    communication, interacting with friends and repetitive and/or restricted interests.
  • People with ASD may have challenges with sensory input, executive
    functioning & co-regulation skills.

Learning from the Experts

Recognize everyone's potential and truly hear their voice.

Loading...
Loading...

"She was probably one of the most challenging children I have ever worked with."

Jordyn's Autism Program Teacher

Impulse Control

Sensory

Fitting in

Flexibility

Regulation

Communication

Memory

Paying Attention



Loading...

💬 Other Neurodiverse Diagnoses

ADHD

(Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

  • Brain moves fast – It can be hard to sit still or focus, but ideas come non-stop.
  • Super creative and high-energy – When they’re into something, they go all in with passion.

💭 Anxiety & OCD

  • Worry can get loud – Thoughts might loop or cause stress over small things.
  • Deep thinkers with strong awareness – Often super tuned in to their surroundings and others’ feelings.

🧠 Dyslexia

  • Sees words differently – Reading or spelling may be tough, but it's just a different learning path.
  • Often amazing storytellers – Big-picture thinkers who shine in creativity and verbal expression.

🔧 Dyspraxia

  • Movement and coordination can be tricky – Tasks like writing or sports might take more effort.
  • Determined and clever – They find their own awesome ways to work through challenges.

🤝 When you know better, you do better!

1

Be kind & patient

Everyone moves at their own pace; give them time and understanding

2

Invite them in

A simple “Wanna join?” can make someone feel seen and welcome.

3

Celebrate what they love

Whether it’s trains, coding, or anime, show interest in their passions.

4

Respect space when needed

Sometimes quiet or alone time helps them recharge.

5

Avoid talking about them like they’re not there

Always include them in the conversation; it shows respect.

6

Involve them in decisions

Just because someone has autism doesn’t mean they can’t think or choose for themselves!

Being Different and Authentic is Amazing

New Perspectives

Understanding different brains helps people see the world in a new way.

Appreciation for Diversity

Showing respect and appreciation makes the world a more interesting place!

What’s one thing you learned today about neurodiversity that surprised you or changed how you think?

Thank You!

Thank you for exploring the Neuroverse with me!