Being Neurodivergent Affirming

This session is about understanding neurodivergence — a natural and important part of human difference.

We’ll look at what the word means, where it came from, and why it matters. You’ll learn how changing the way we see neurodivergent children can lead to more understanding, respect, and support.

This session focuses on real experiences and celebrates different ways of thinking, feeling, and being in the world.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session, you will be able to:

• Explain what neurodivergent means and why it matters.

• Understand where the term came from and how it helps shift focus away from “what’s wrong”.

• See why lived experience is more important than labels.

• Tell the difference between the medical and social models of disability.

• Reframe neurodivergence as difference, not something to fix.

• Use kind, respectful language when talking about neurodivergent children.

• Recognise how adults can create safe, supportive spaces for all brains.