What would happen if the world viewed neurodevelopmental differences like ADHD, autism, and learning disabilities differently? If everyone noticed the strengths that can come from these differences first, instead of the challenges?
“That’s the basic idea of neurodiversity — that differences don’t have to only be looked at as weaknesses. They’re not problems that need to be “fixed” or “cured.” They’re simply variations of the human brain,” says special education advocate Amanda Morin in her article, What Is Neurodiversity?
Neurodiverse learners have unique ways of experiencing the world, communicating, and learning. Inclusive teaching builds on the skills and talents of neurodiverse learners and differentiates instruction to provide appropriate supports. In this section, you’ll learn more about ADHD, executive function challenges, dyslexia, and autism spectrum disorder — and how teachers can support neurodiverse kids on their reading journey in the classroom.