About neurodiversity and emotional wellbeing
‘Neurodiversity’ is a term used to describe the natural variation in thinking styles and behaviour that we all have.
We are all different in how we think, and neurodiversity encompasses all the different ways in which we may process information, approach different situations, communicate, and much more.
The word comes from two parts – ‘neurological’ and ‘diversity’. Neurological is a term for things to do with our brain, and diversity refers to how we are all different in a large variety of ways.
Our brains are unique to us. Therefore, we will have unique skills, abilities, and needs. We may experience and interact with the world around us in different ways.
Understanding key terms
The word ‘neurodivergent’ is used to describe people whose brains work in different ways. This can affect things like:
- communication
- learning
- attention
- movement
- how someone processes sounds, lights, and other senses
Neurodiversity can include those with:
- autism or ADHD
- dyslexia
- dyspraxia
- Tourette Syndrome
However, a person does not have to have any of these specific diagnoses to be considered neurodivergent.
The term ‘neurodivergence’ is a general word for these differences. People who do not have these differences are often called ‘neurotypical’.
‘Emotional wellbeing’ is used to describe a person's overall emotional health and how this impacts their daily life, such as completing everyday tasks, managing relationships, and managing their emotions.
A child with positive emotional wellbeing will most likely:
- enjoy school
- be able to form good friendships
- be able to complete age-dependent tasks such as brushing their teeth or eating their dinner
What this could mean for you and your child
Some aspects of life may be more challenging, and some more rewarding for both you and your child if they are neurodivergent.
Some children may thrive at school and others may shine in areas that are not academic.
Your child may:
- think, learn, feel and process information differently
- need extra help and support in some settings or situations
- show skills in different ways at school
- thrive in the right environment if their strengths are used
What you could do to help your child
Together you can:
- discover and celebrate their strengths
- support your child to be happy and feel confident
- try to identify where and when they may need extra support
- speak to your child's nursery, teacher, health visitor or school nurse
- seek support if you need it to help your child to thrive
The pages within the Neurodiversity and emotional wellbeing resource can provide you with information, ideas and resources to support you and your child.
Resources
Visit the following online resources for advice and guidance:
Resources on the The Anna Freud website.