Neurodivergent
Neurodivergent describes brains that function differently from typical patterns, including conditions like ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and other neurological variations that create unique strengths alongside challenges.
You're not alone
If your teen seems to experience the world differently than their peers, processing information uniquely or struggling with things others find simple while excelling unexpectedly elsewhere, they might be neurodivergent. Research suggests 15-20 percent of the population is neurodivergent in some way. Many successful innovators, artists, and entrepreneurs are neurodivergent. The key is understanding and supporting their unique wiring.
What it looks like day to day
Student
Your teen creates brilliant creative projects but melts down over minor schedule changes or can't filter out background noise during tests.
Parent
You notice your teen needs specific routines, processes emotions intensely, or has sensory sensitivities that seem extreme compared to other kids.
Tiny steps to try
- 1
Identify patterns
Notice what environments, times, and conditions help your teen thrive versus struggle. Work with patterns, not against them.
- 2
Sensory accommodations
Provide noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, or lighting adjustments. Small environmental changes make big differences.
- 3
Communication style matching
Some neurodivergent teens need direct, literal communication. Others need visual supports. Match their processing style.
- 4
Strength focus
Identify and build on neurodivergent strengths rather than only addressing challenges. Confidence in strengths supports challenge areas.
- 5
Energy management
Recognize that masking (appearing neurotypical) is exhausting. Build in recovery time after social or sensory-intensive activities.
Why understanding neurodivergence matters
Neurodivergent isn't broken or less than. It's different brain wiring that processes information, emotions, and sensory input in non-typical ways.
Common forms of neurodivergence:
• ADHD affecting attention and impulse control
• Autism influencing social communication and sensory processing
• Dyslexia impacting reading and language processing
• Dyspraxia affecting motor coordination
• Dyscalculia influencing mathematical processing
• Tourette syndrome involving involuntary movements or sounds
These differences often come with corresponding strengths like creativity, pattern recognition, intense focus, or innovative thinking.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Should we seek a formal diagnosis?
Diagnosis can provide clarity, access to accommodations, and self-understanding. However, you can support neurodivergent traits without formal diagnosis. Consider evaluation if your teen struggles significantly or needs official accommodations. Some teens find diagnosis validating; others prefer avoiding labels. Let your teen's needs and preferences guide this decision.
How do I know if my teen is neurodivergent or just quirky?
Neurodivergence involves consistent patterns that impact daily functioning across multiple settings. If traits significantly affect school, social, or home life and persist despite typical interventions, consider neurodivergence. However, there's no clear line between neurodivergent and neurotypical. Focus on supporting your teen's specific needs regardless of labels.
Related Terms
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition where the brain's executive function system works differently, affecting focus, impulse control, and activity levels in about 5-10% of children.
Learning Differences
Learning differences are variations in how brains process information, affecting how your teen learns best without indicating intelligence level or limiting potential.
Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity is the concept that neurological differences like ADHD and autism are natural human variations rather than disorders to cure, deserving acceptance and accommodation.
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