Teaching Children to Understand and Value Neurodiversity

There's so much value in neurodiversity!

 

To paraphrase an ancient Eastern proverb: “All individuals, in many respects, are like no other individuals, like some other individuals, and like all other individuals.”

This timeless idea captures the heart of neurodiversity, a concept that celebrates the natural differences in how people think, learn, and experience the world.

While diversity is often discussed in terms of culture or background, teaching neurodiversity to children helps them understand that differences in the brain are just as important.

When children learn to value these differences, especially those related to autism and other developmental conditions, they develop empathy, respect, and the ability to build inclusive communities.

What Is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity refers to the concept that brain differences, such as those seen in autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other conditions, are a natural variation in the human experience.

Rather than viewing these differences as deficits or disorders, neurodiversity emphasizes the strengths, creativity, and unique perspectives they bring.

“All individuals, in many respects, are like no other individuals, like some other individuals, and like all other individuals.”

Understanding Brain Differences

Scientific advances, like MRI studies, show that human brains have more variability in structure and function than those of any other species (Valizadeh et al., 2018).

These differences impact learning, problem solving, communication, and how we connect with others and reinforce that there is no single “correct” brain type.

Nature and Nurture in Brain Development

Both genetics and life experiences influence the brain’s development.

One-third of our genes are active in the cerebral cortex, the region responsible for higher-level thinking and emotions (National Institute of Health, 2010). This genetic activity shapes how children perceive and respond to the world.

The Role of Genetics and Life Experience

Experiences like playing an instrument, reading with a parent, or engaging in social play further enhance a child’s brain development, building and strengthening neural connections and creating unique learning patterns that can evolve over time.

Why Neurodiversity Is Valuable for All Children

Neurodiversity helps children understand that differences are not only normal, but they are a powerful asset.

By recognizing that people process information and emotions in different ways, we equip our children to become compassionate, inclusive, and open-minded individuals.

Creativity, Innovation, and Unique Strengths

Neurodiverse thinkers often demonstrate remarkable strengths in memory, attention to detail, or deep focus on specific interests. These traits can lead to creativity, innovation, and meaningful contributions in both school and social environments.

Embracing Strengths and Challenges

When we acknowledge that everyone has both strengths and challenges, we teach our children to lead with empathy and compassion.

Embracing neurodiversity encourages kids to respect others’ differences and recognize the unique gifts each person offers.

The benefits of neurodiversity for humans are immense, including creativity and innovation from different ways of thinking.

How To Talk to Children About Neurodiversity

Talking to your child about neurodiversity, including autism, creates a foundation for understanding and acceptance. It helps normalize brain differences and builds positive attitudes toward inclusion.

Use Positive, Inclusive Language

Model respectful language that highlights your child’s strengths. Phrases like “everyone learns differently” or “some kids need extra help with certain things, and that’s okay” encourage acceptance and curiosity rather than judgment.

Teach About Autism as Part of Neurodiversity

Autism is just one form of neurodiversity. Explain to your child that some kids may think, speak, or play differently and that these differences are a natural part of being human.

Talking to kids about autism in this way helps them build more accepting, understanding, and empathietic friendships.

Use Inclusive Books, Media, and Resources for Kids

Children’s books and media can help explain neurodiversity in an age-appropriate way. Consider exploring these options:

  • Uniquely Wired: A Story About Autism and Its Gifts by Julia Cook
  • The Superhero Brain: Explaining Autism to Empower Kids by Christel Land
  • All My Stripes by Shaina Rudolph and Danielle Royer
  • Julia, the Muppet with autism on Sesame Street (Sesame Street in Communities, 2023)

Supporting Diverse Learning Styles at Home

Learning doesn’t look the same for every child, and that’s okay. Supporting your child’s diverse learning style by recognizing how they process information and create a home environment that meets their unique needs.

Adapt Learning to Visual, Auditory, and Sensory Needs

Some children learn best with visuals. Others thrive with music, hands-on activity, or calm, quiet spaces. Experiment with visual schedules, fidget tools, or calming transitions and create a supportive learning rhythm that works for your child.

Use Routines, Visual Supports, and Transition Tools

Predictable routines help reduce stress and support emotional regulation. Things like visual cues, checklists, and timers can help ease transitions and prepare children for new activities. This helps create a calm and flexible learning environment.

Create Positive, Individualized Learning Environments

At InBloom, we understand that no two children are alike. That’s why our therapy rooms, activity areas, and mock classrooms are thoughtfully designed to reflect each child’s learning style and comfort preferences.

We encourage families to do the same at home, crafting personalized spaces where children feel safe and supported.

The Role of ABA Therapy in Supporting Neurodiverse Learners

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) programs and neurodiversity are not mutually exclusive. When ABA is done respectfully and individually, it celebrates the strengths of neurodiverse learners and builds skills that improve independence and confidence.

Individualized Programs Tailored to Each Child

InBloom’s ABA programs are built around the child, not the diagnosis. Our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) design strategies that match each child’s abilities, learning pace, and goals, ensuring that therapy feels natural and rewarding.

Collaborative Care Teams and Parent Involvement

Parents play a crucial role in the learning process. InBloom families work closely with BCBAs and Behavior Therapists to monitor progress and make informed decisions together. This collaboration ensures the best outcomes for every child.

Parents partner with Board Certified Behavior Analysts and Behavior Therapists in developing and implementing evidence-based programs with data collection specific to each child’s learning objectives.

Generalizing Skills Across Settings

One of the most essential benefits of ABA therapy is generalization, which helps children apply what they’ve learned in everyday life. Whether in therapy rooms, group play spaces, or sensory environments, generalization is key to lasting growth (Lawrence, 2022).

Participation in an ABA program can provide children with an invaluable foundation for a lifetime of learning.

Professional Evaluations and Early Intervention

Early evaluations provide valuable insights into a child’s development and can unlock access to services that support learning, communication, and daily living skills.

Benefits of Developmental Assessments

Developmental assessments are tools used to identify strengths and areas where further development is needed. These evaluations are conducted by licensed professionals who observe how a child interacts, learns, and communicates.

Some key benefits of developmental assessments include:

  • Identifying early signs of developmental delays or learning differences.
  • Highlighting a child’s strengths, preferences, and learning style.
  • Guiding personalized therapy and support plans.
  • Helping families better understand their child’s needs.
  • Serving as a foundation for accessing services like ABA therapy, speech therapy, or occupational therapy.
  • Offering peace of mind and direction for caregivers.

Accessing Support Services Through Diagnosis

A formal diagnosis can open the door to life-changing services, such as ABA therapy. InBloom offers diagnostic evaluations in select states, providing families with clarity and support as they begin their educational journey.

InBloom’s Commitment to Every Child’s Unique Journey

At InBloom, we know that each child’s journey is as unique as their fingerprint. Whether you’re just starting to explore a diagnosis or looking for support through ABA therapy, our team is here to help you every step of the way.

Through our ABA therapy learning centers, diagnostic services, and ongoing caregiver collaboration, we are committed to motivation, collaboration, and effort—the core values that drive everything we do.

Let’s celebrate what makes your child unique. Contact our team to get started.

References

  • Valizadeh, S. A., Liem, F., Mérillat, S., Hänggi, J., & Jäncke, L. (2018). Identification of individual subjects on the basis of their brain anatomical features. Scientific Reports, 8(1).
  • National Institute of Health. (2010). Brain Basics: Genes at Work in the Brain. Office of Communications and Public Liaison.
  • Sesame Street in Communities. (2023). Julia: A Muppet with Autism. Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
  • Lawrence, M. (2022). Generalization Strategies in ABA Settings.