Next week marks a very special week for those of us who are 'neuro-spicy' it's a week to learn about the neurodiverse brain, how we think and how others can understand and help us better.
When it comes to inclusion, neurodiversity means understanding and respecting the differences in how our brains work, just like we appreciate other variations among people.
Everyone thinks, moves, processes information, and communicates in their own way based on how their brains are wired. In our community, neurodiversity is an umbrella term used to describe various thinking styles like Dyslexia, DCD (Dyspraxia), Dyscalculia, Autism, and ADHD. But beyond labels, it's about valuing those who have unique perspectives. Whether you're a school, university, or organization, having diverse thinkers can be a real asset!
Around 15-20% of the population has a neurological difference. Instead of focusing on deficits or disorders, embracing neurodiversity means recognizing an individual's strengths and challenges equally. The difficulties neurodivergent individuals encounter usually stem from the environments and systems they navigate, which are typically designed by the majority. We're often described as "square pegs in a world full of round holes."
Every neurodivergent person has their own sets of strengths and weaknesses and people need to start seeing us that way, instead of generic training and therapies that might work for one person, but not another with the same diagnosis.
Neurodiversity celebration week has set up a week full of amazing events and talks online that are all free and links to the recordings will be sent out if you sign up.
Here's a link to all of the events!
This week can be of great use to people with friends who are neurodiverse, or even for those of us who just want to learn a bit more about ourselves. If anyone has any questions, I'm happy to answer if I can.
xAlbusx
