Neurodiversity

What do Neurotypical, Neurodivergent, and Neurodiverse mean?​

• Neurotypical: represents the "typical" way of thinking and processing information, which is considered the majority experience. ​

• Neurodivergent: This term celebrates the unique ways some individuals' brains function, often following a different direction from the 'typical' pattern. It's essential to remember that this is not a deviation from the norm, but rather a beautiful and diverse expression of human cognition. ​

• Neurodiversity:​  is a term that embraces the variety of ways that people's brains work. It's a non-medical term that recognises and celebrates that there is no one right way of thinking, learning, or behaving. This non-medical perspective helps to reduce stigma and promote understanding and acceptance. ​

What does Neurodiversity include? 

• Differences in sensory processing

• Differences in motor abilities

• Differences in social comfort

• Differences in cognition

• Differences in focus

• Differences in ways of learning

• Differences in ways of communicating

• Differences in ways of perceiving the environment​

Who is neurodivergent?

• Neurodivergent individuals have brains that function differently from those of the average person. This can lead to different struggles and unique strengths. ​

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​Who is considered neurodivergent?

Neurodivergent individuals have brains that function in ways that are not typical, which can result in unique challenges and strengths. Conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and Tourette syndrome are examples of neurodivergent conditions.

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What does neurotypical mean?

Neurotypical describes individuals who think and process information in generally accepted ways within their cultural context. 

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Common traits associated with Neurotypical development include:

• Reaching developmental milestones around the same time as peers, such as speech development

• Demonstrating social and organisational skills similar to those of their peers

• Coping with sensory discomfort, like loud noises, with relative ease

• Adjusting to changes in routine

• Sustaining focus during class or work for longer durations

• Engaging in age-appropriate interests or hobbies

• Hitting developmental milestones similar to peers, like learning to speak

• Exhibiting social and organisational skills akin to those of their peers

• Handling sensory discomfort, such as loud noises, with relative ease

• Adapting to changes in routine

• Maintaining concentration in educational or work settings over extended periods

• Pursuing varied interests appropriate for their age.

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It's crucial to understand that not every neurotypical person will display all these characteristics in every context.
For example, some people without autism may find certain sensory situations overwhelming, and some children may have speech or developmental delays unrelated to any diagnosis.