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What actually is Neurodiversity-Affirming Practice?

Writer's picture: Sophie LangridgeSophie Langridge



I advertise myself as a neurodiversity-affirming tutor, but what does that really mean?

 

Neurodiversity refers to the idea that people think, learn, and process the world in different ways. While it’s often associated with autism and ADHD, it actually includes a broader range of differences, such as dyslexia, OCD, and dyspraxia. The neurodiversity movement sees these differences as natural variations of the human brain rather than deficits to be fixed. A neurodiversity-affirming approach therefore respects and values these differences, focusing on supporting each individual’s strengths and challenges.

 

Many parents and carers worry that their child is struggling because traditional teaching methods don’t fit their needs. A neurodiversity-affirming approach values each child for who they are without trying to change their behaviours to fit neurotypical expectations. During my sessions, I avoid harmful strategies that may pressure children to mask or suppress natural behaviours, like stimming, which are important for self-regulation and comfort. Over time, this helps to build confidence, self-esteem and a love of learning.

 

To achieve this, I:

  • Respect individuality.

    • By its very nature, neurodiversity is diverse! I have had children with their cameras off for every lesson, those that use the chat function instead of talking to me, some that need to sit on the floor instead of at a table, and others that need to take in information through videos instead of written text. However a child learns best, I will endeavour to meet them where they are and create a comfortable, supportive learning environment tailored to their needs.

  • Engage in child-led learning.

    • I follow children’s interests and pace, incorporating topics they love where possible. This helps to keep learning engaging and meaningful.

  • Take a flexible approach during sessions.

    • I adapt sessions to meet the children’s needs in the moment. This could mean taking sensory breaks, encouraging children to move around when feeling uncomfortable, or pausing an activity to take a moment to co-regulate emotions.

  • Take a strengths-based approach.

    • I build on what children already love or excel at, using their strengths as a foundation for learning new skills and building confidence.

 

Some people believe that this approach means lowering expectations and not challenging children, however, for me, it’s about setting achievable goals and finding ways to meet them that work for the child. A respectful, understanding approach can help a child unlock their potential far more effectively than a rigid one.

 

If you’re looking for tutoring or educational support that values and nurtures your child’s unique way of learning, I would love to help. Together, we can create a positive, encouraging environment in which your child can thrive. Please contact me at attunedteaching@gmail.com for more information.

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