Talking About Neurodiversity With Your Neurotypical Child

3/21/2024

Elodie Resurreccion, French Program Coordinator | Coordinatrice des Programmes Français

How can we help children become allies? Navigating conversations about neurodiversity with young children can be both challenging and rewarding. As we continue to foster an inclusive environment at EB, we understand the importance of addressing these topics at home as well.

SPEAKING ABOUT NEURODIVERSITY WITH YOUR NEUROTYPICAL CHILD AT HOME
In other words, how can we help children become allies?

Neurotypical students can feel frustrated or confused by perceived unfairness. Why does that child get to take breaks or frequently speaks out of turn? Why do they have different work than me? As they mature, students begin to become more aware of their classmates and seek more information about differences.

Here are some tips and resources to help guide discussions and promote empathy and acceptance among neurotypical children:

Emphasize Equity: Teach your children about equity and fairness, explaining that rules and accommodations may vary based on individual needs. Help them understand that supporting others and working together as a team is essential for a harmonious classroom environment.
Focus on Strengths and Challenges: Encourage children to explore their own strengths and challenges, as well as those of their classmates. We can foster a deeper understanding and acceptance of all our differences through this lens.
Build a Toolbox for Coping: Develop a toolbox with your children that includes strategies for managing frustration and difficult interactions. For example, wearing earmuffs in noisy environments or practicing flexibility during playtime can be valuable tools.
Use Language of Inclusion: Incorporate language that promotes inclusion and empathy when discussing neurodiversity. Emphasize the uniqueness of each individual and the importance of understanding and respecting differences.
Explore Books and Resources: Utilize books, podcasts, and online resources to initiate conversations about neurodiversity. Some recommended books include "We're All Wonders" by R.J. Palacio and "The Invisible Boy" by Trudy Ludwig (refer to the provided book list for more recommendations).
Encourage Open Communication: Create a safe space for your children to share their experiences and feelings about interactions at school. Listen attentively, discuss solutions/strategies together, and reassure them that it's okay to face challenges and learn from them.

Keep in mind that what happens at school and what happens at home are interconnected. By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment both at school and at home, we can empower all our children to embrace diversity and thrive.

Thank you for your partnership in creating a nurturing and accepting community for our students.

Here is a curated list of resources to explore further:

Books For Children

We're All Wonders, by R.J. Palacio
Neurodiversity! What’s That? An Introduction to Neurodiversity for Kids, by Nadine Arthur
Wiggles, Stomps, and Squeezes Calm My Jitters Down, by Lindsay Rowe Parker
My Brother Charlie, by Holly Robinson Peete and Ryan Elizabeth Peete
All My Stripes: A Story for Children with Autism, by Shaina Rudolph and Danielle Royer
Why Johnny Doesn't Flap: NT Is OK!, by Clay Morton and Gail Morton
A Friend Like Simon, by Kate Gaynor
A Friend for Henry, by Jenn Bailey
The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin, by Julia Finley Mosca