Neurodiversity

 What is Neurodiversity? By: Caroline Miller

    Neurodiversity is a very relevant topic in today's world, especially in schools. Neurodiversity is basically a word for describing how everyone's brain "works" in a different way and there is not one "correct" way for a brain to work. Neurodiversity is a way of saying that all types of learning and social disabilities should be accepted and encouraged by everyone. 

    Neurodiversity includes disabilities such as ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia and much more. These disabilities are a lot more common in students today. It is very important to be aware of all of these different disabilities because as a teacher, you will most likely come across all of them in your classroom. Since they are so common today, there is a bigger need for acceptance of these differences. Both teachers and students should be aware of all of these disabilities in the classroom because they are surrounded by them each day. 

    Teachers need to accept and encourage all of the students in their class no matter how they learn. The students with learning disabilities do not want to be treated differently than the rest of the students in their class. Even though they may need some extra help or altered lessons, treating them as equals is important. Teachers also need to be aware of their students' needs when it comes to neurodiversity. Each student is different, and some may need more support than others. Knowing the best ways to manage their learning disabilities will lead to a better classroom environment for everyone. Teachers must encourage all of their students to ask for help or support when needed. 

    Students should also be aware of learning disabilities and know they need to accept all of their classmates no matter how they learn. Students with learning disabilities most likely do not want to be treated differently by their classmates because they do not want to be singled out or embarrassed. Students should be aware that everyone learns at a different pace, and all paces are acceptable. This will lead to a more accepting classroom environment where all students can feel comfortable asking for support. 

        Having an inclusive classroom environment is also very important. The article states "a rigid school schedule, or a loud, bright workspace can make it impossible for them to function well". I've been in a lot of different classrooms as a substitute teacher, so I have seen some great ways to make a classroom more inviting for all types of students. For example, having a "cozy corner" or a "calming corner" is very common. This is a spot in a classroom normally with more comfortable seating, dimmer lights, and maybe some books for students to read if they need to take a brain break throughout the day. A lot of students have lower attention spans than others, so taking more frequent breaks can lead to a better overall day. Additionally, I've seen classrooms that have covers over the lights to make them less harsh for students. A lot of lights in schools are really bright and fluorescent, which can cause headaches or other issues. Dimming these lights for students can make them feel calmer and more comfortable in the classroom. Lastly, something I've seen in a lot of the younger grades is frequent "movement breaks". Movement breaks are typically short videos involving dancing or stretching that allow the students to get up from their seats and move around to reset their brains. The students always seem to love these movement breaks, and they really help with their attention during lessons. 

I found this great video that explains neurodiversity for young students. It's a fun animated video that I believe young students would really like and understand what neurodiversity means.