Learn About Neurodiversity

Definition: The natural variations in how human brains function, embracing differences like autism, ADHD, FASD, dyslexia and many more. Example: A neurodiverse classroom includes kids who learn best through movement, visuals, or hands-on activities. Caregiver Insight: Instead of viewing differences as "disorders," embracing neurodiversity helps kids thrive in their own way.

Definition: Someone whose brain functions outside of societal norms, including those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, etc. Example: A child with ADHD may struggle with focus in structured settings but excel in creative problem-solving. Caregiver Insight: Neurodivergence isn’t a limitation—it’s a different way of thinking that often brings unique strengths.

Definition: Someone whose brain functions align with societal expectations. Example: A neurotypical child may naturally pick up unspoken social cues, while a neurodivergent child may need direct communication. Caregiver Insight: Understanding neurotypical vs. neurodivergent perspectives helps caregivers create inclusive environments.

Definition: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects social communication, sensory processing, and behavioral patterns. As a spectrum disorder, autism presents uniquely in each individual—some may be highly verbal, while others are nonverbal, with diverse sensory preferences, strengths, and challenges. Example: One autistic child may avoid eye contact but possess an exceptional memory for details, while another may experience difficulties with verbal communication yet thrive in structured routines. Caregiver Insight: Autism is not about "fixing" differences but rather embracing and supporting the diverse ways autistic individuals experience the world. Common Traits of Autistic Individuals Autism manifests differently in each person, but some commonly observed traits include: • Social and communication differences, including challenges in interpreting social cues and a preference for direct, structured interactions. • Sensory sensitivities, with over- or under-responsiveness to sensory input such as lights, sounds, textures, or other stimuli. • Repetitive behaviors and intense interests, with deep engagement in specific topics or activities. • A strong need for routine and predictability, as structured environments provide comfort while change can cause distress. • Difficulty with abstract language, preferring literal communication over sarcasm or ambiguous expressions. • Strengths in analytical thinking, with many autistic individuals excelling in creative, pattern-based, and detail-oriented tasks. Caregiver Insight: Rather than seeking to modify autistic behaviors, fostering understanding and acceptance enables autistic individuals to thrive. Supporting Autistic Individuals Providing meaningful support involves several key approaches: • Respecting sensory needs by identifying and accommodating sensitivities, such as adjusting noise levels or selecting comfortable clothing. • Using clear and direct communication to make social interactions more accessible. • Encouraging special interests, as many autistic individuals develop extraordinary skills centered around their passions. • Validating stimming and self-regulation, recognizing that repetitive movements or sounds serve as a self-soothing mechanism. • Embracing routine and predictability by utilizing visual aids and structured schedules to minimize anxiety. Caregiver Insight: Creating autism-friendly environments helps reduce stress, improve focus, and foster self-confidence. Sources and Additional Reading • The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) provides an overview of ASD, including its neurological and developmental aspects. You can explore their insights here.(https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd) • The Mayo Clinic outlines symptoms, causes, and behavioral patterns associated with ASD, emphasizing the spectrum nature of the condition. You can read more here.(https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/autism-spectrum-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20352928) • Verywell Health offers a detailed breakdown of ASD traits, diagnosis, and strengths, highlighting the diversity of autistic experiences. You can find their article here.(https://www.verywellhealth.com/autism-spectrum-disorder-7111902)

Definition: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) encompasses a range of cognitive, behavioral, and sensory differences resulting from prenatal alcohol exposure. Individuals with FASD may face challenges related to attention, emotional regulation, impulse control, and information processing, yet often demonstrate strong creativity, resilience, and innovative problem-solving abilities. Example: A child with FASD might struggle with routines and memory recall but excel in hands-on, creative tasks. Caregiver Insight: Children with FASD thrive when supported with structured environments, patience, and strength-based approaches that focus on their abilities rather than their challenges. Common Traits of Individuals with FASD While experiences vary, some common traits associated with FASD include: • Executive functioning differences, making planning, organizing, and completing tasks more challenging. • Sensory sensitivities, resulting in heightened or reduced responses to sounds, textures, or environmental stimuli. • Impulsivity and difficulty with emotional regulation, affecting responses to situations. • Memory challenges, including struggles with recall and applying information consistently. • Social and communication differences, such as difficulties interpreting social cues or maintaining peer relationships. • Strengths in creativity and problem-solving, with many individuals excelling in unconventional and hands-on learning environments. Caregiver Insight: Understanding and embracing these traits fosters a supportive environment where individuals with FASD can grow and succeed. Supporting Individuals with FASD Effective support strategies include: • Establishing clear, consistent routines through visual schedules and predictable patterns to reduce overwhelm. • Creating sensory-friendly environments by adjusting noise levels, lighting, and textures to minimize sensory overload. • Using gentle redirection and positive reinforcement instead of punishment. • Breaking down instructions into short, direct steps to aid in processing information. • Encouraging strengths by highlighting creativity, curiosity, and problem-solving skills to build confidence. Caregiver Insight: Support is not just about managing challenges—it is about creating opportunities for neurodivergent individuals to thrive in ways that work for them. Sources and Additional Reading • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (https://www.cdc.gov/fasd/about/index.html)offers an overview of FASD, its symptoms, and lifelong effects. • The Mayo Clinic (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fetal-alcohol-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20352901)provides details on the symptoms, causes, and impact of fetal alcohol syndrome, which is part of the FASD spectrum. • The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) (https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/understanding-fetal-alcohol-spectrum-disorders)explains the cognitive, behavioral, and physical impairments associated with prenatal alcohol exposure.

Definition: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a brain-based condition that affects focus, impulse control, emotional regulation, and executive functioning. Often misunderstood as simply "hyperactivity," ADHD involves unique patterns of thinking, creativity, and energy management. Example: A child with ADHD may struggle to sit still in class but excel in hands-on problem-solving and creative thinking. Caregiver Insight: ADHD is not about laziness or bad behavior—it is about how the brain processes focus and stimulation. With the right support, children with ADHD can thrive in dynamic, engaging environments. Common Traits of Individuals with ADHD ADHD presents differently in each person, but common characteristics include: • Inattention, such as difficulty maintaining focus, forgetfulness, or challenges following long instructions. • Hyperactivity, including high energy levels, difficulty staying still, and seeking constant stimulation. • Impulsivity, leading to acting without thinking, interrupting conversations, or struggling with patience. • Hyperfocus, which enables deep concentration on topics of interest while making less engaging tasks more difficult. • Emotional sensitivity, resulting in strong reactions, frustration, or difficulty regulating emotions. • Time blindness, affecting the ability to estimate time and manage schedules effectively. Caregiver Insight: ADHD is not a one-size-fits-all condition—many individuals with ADHD excel in creative, fast-paced environments where their strengths shine. Supporting Individuals with ADHD Effective support strategies include: • Breaking tasks into small, manageable steps to help process information more effectively. • Encouraging movement-based learning, as physical activity can enhance focus and engagement. • Using visual schedules and timers to improve time management and routine-building. • Creating a low-stimulation environment when necessary, as some individuals work best without clutter or distractions. • Emphasizing strengths, including creativity, humor, and out-of-the-box problem-solving skills. Caregiver Insight: ADHD support is not about forcing focus but finding the right tools and environments that make concentration feel natural. Sources and Additional Reading • The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) (https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-what-you-need-to-know)offers an overview of ADHD, its symptoms, causes, and treatment options. • Verywell Health (https://www.verywellhealth.com/adhd-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-included-definition-symptoms-traits-causes-treatment-5084784)provides insights into ADHD symptoms, diagnosis, and coping strategies for children and adults. • The Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA) (https://add.org/adhd-facts/)provides facts about ADHD, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Definition: Dyslexia is a learning difference that affects reading, spelling, and language processing. It is not related to intelligence—many individuals with dyslexia are highly creative, strong problem-solvers, and deep thinkers. Dyslexia varies widely; some people struggle with decoding words, while others find writing more challenging. Example: A child with dyslexia might have difficulty with spelling rules but excel in visual thinking and storytelling. Caregiver Insight: Dyslexia is not a limitation—it is a different way of processing language that often fosters innovation and creativity. Common Traits of Individuals with Dyslexia Dyslexia presents uniquely in each person, but some common traits include: • Difficulty with decoding words, leading to trouble recognizing letters and their sounds. • Challenges with spelling, often resulting in inconsistent patterns even for familiar words. • Reading difficulties, including slow or hesitant reading and skipping words or letters. • Strong verbal and creative skills, with many dyslexic individuals excelling in spoken communication and hands-on problem-solving. • Struggles with memorization, particularly with sequences such as phone numbers or directions. • Strengths in thinking outside the box, as dyslexic individuals often recognize connections others might overlook. Caregiver Insight: Many individuals with dyslexia thrive in careers that emphasize creativity, problem-solving, and innovation. Supporting Individuals with Dyslexia Effective support strategies include: • Using multisensory learning techniques that engage sight, sound, and touch to reinforce concepts. • Providing audiobooks and text-to-speech tools to improve reading comprehension beyond traditional visual methods. • Encouraging strengths in other areas, such as art, engineering, and verbal storytelling. • Breaking down information into smaller, manageable steps to improve processing. • Normalizing dyslexia as a different learning style rather than a deficit, helping to remove stigma and boost confidence. Caregiver Insight: Supporting dyslexia means focusing on ability rather than disability—many individuals with dyslexia develop exceptional problem-solving skills that offer unique advantages.

Definition: Dyspraxia, also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), affects motor coordination, movement planning, and sometimes speech articulation. It is not about weakness but rather differences in how the brain processes movement and spatial awareness. Example: A child with dyspraxia might struggle with handwriting but excel at verbal storytelling. Caregiver Insight: Children with dyspraxia can absolutely succeed—they may simply need adaptive strategies for coordination-based tasks. Common Traits of Individuals with Dyspraxia Dyspraxia varies in severity, but common characteristics include: • Fine motor challenges, making tasks like tying shoelaces, buttoning clothes, or writing neatly more difficult. • Gross motor difficulties, affecting balance, coordination, and spatial awareness. • Sensory processing differences, leading to overwhelm from certain textures or movements. • Slower task completion, requiring extra time for activities such as dressing or eating. • Trouble with hand-eye coordination, which can make catching balls or using tools effectively challenging. • Strengths in creativity and verbal skills, with many individuals excelling in storytelling, problem-solving, and abstract thinking. Caregiver Insight: Supporting movement confidence helps individuals gain independence without frustration. Supporting Individuals with Dyspraxia Effective strategies for support include: • Using adaptive tools such as weighted pens, Velcro shoes, and larger grips to reduce strain. • Encouraging movement-friendly play through activities like swimming and dancing to improve coordination. • Breaking down tasks into small, manageable steps with visual instructions for better sequencing. • Providing extra time for physical tasks to reduce pressure and frustration. • Building confidence in strength areas by encouraging storytelling, art, and problem-solving. Caregiver Insight: Dyspraxia is not about ability—it is about finding the right tools and adjustments to support success.

Definition: Dyscalculia is a learning difference that affects an individual's ability to understand and work with numbers. Often referred to as "math dyslexia," dyscalculia is distinct from dyslexia and primarily impacts number sense, problem-solving, and memory related to mathematical concepts. However, it is not a reflection of intelligence—many individuals with dyscalculia excel in creative thinking, storytelling, and artistic expression. Example: A child with dyscalculia may struggle to remember multiplication tables but thrive in pattern-based thinking or creative problem-solving. Caregiver Insight: Math challenges can feel frustrating, but focusing on strengths rather than deficits helps children with dyscalculia build confidence and discover alternative learning strategies. Common Traits of Individuals with Dyscalculia People with dyscalculia experience difficulties with numbers, patterns, and mathematical reasoning, including: • Difficulty recognizing numbers and understanding numerical relationships. • Trouble with basic math operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. • Challenges in estimating quantities, making it difficult to approximate amounts or compare numbers. • Confusion with time and money management, including struggles with telling time or handling calculations related to finances. • Difficulty understanding sequences, leading to trouble remembering steps in a math problem or numerical order. • Strengths in creativity and language-based learning, with many individuals excelling in storytelling, music, or verbal reasoning. Caregiver Insight: Math difficulties do not define intelligence—many individuals with dyscalculia succeed in areas that do not rely on numerical processing. Supporting Individuals with Dyscalculia Effective support strategies include: • Using visual and hands-on learning tools, such as number blocks, graphics, and physical activities to reinforce concepts. • Encouraging pattern recognition, as many individuals with dyscalculia thrive by identifying relationships rather than relying on strict calculations. • Avoiding speed-based math challenges, as providing extra time reduces anxiety and improves accuracy. • Breaking down problems into smaller, manageable steps to enhance comprehension. • Normalizing the use of calculators and assistive technology to make everyday math tasks more accessible. Caregiver Insight: Many individuals with dyscalculia find success in fields such as writing, music, art, or psychology, where math is not a central requirement. Encouraging these strengths fosters confidence and motivation.

Definition: Dysgraphia is a neurological difference that affects writing ability, fine motor skills, and the ability to organize thoughts on paper. It is not a reflection of intelligence—many individuals with dysgraphia are highly articulate, creative, and expressive in non-written ways. Example: A child with dysgraphia may struggle with handwriting but excel in verbal storytelling or digital creativity. Caregiver Insight: Dysgraphia does not mean a child is not bright—it means their brain processes writing differently. Finding alternative ways to express thoughts can help them thrive. Common Traits of Individuals with Dysgraphia Dysgraphia affects people in different ways, but some common challenges include: • Difficulty with handwriting, including trouble forming letters, inconsistent spacing, and slow writing speed. • Struggles with written expression, making it challenging to organize ideas into structured sentences. • Hand fatigue and cramping, as writing may feel physically exhausting due to fine motor difficulties. • Avoidance of writing tasks, often due to frustration or anxiety when asked to complete assignments. • Difficulty copying words accurately, resulting in struggles when transferring written information neatly. • Strengths in verbal and creative expression, with many individuals excelling in spoken storytelling, problem-solving, and artistic creativity. Caregiver Insight: Instead of forcing traditional writing methods, supporting alternative ways of learning and expressing ideas can make a significant difference. Supporting Individuals with Dysgraphia Effective support strategies include: • Using speech-to-text tools to allow individuals to express thoughts without the challenge of handwriting. • Encouraging typing as an alternative to handwriting, as many individuals thrive using digital tools. • Providing graphic organizers, such as visual mind maps, to help structure thoughts before writing. • Breaking writing tasks into small, manageable steps to reduce frustration. • Using larger pencils and adaptive writing tools, such as weighted pens or grip-friendly designs, to make writing less stressful. Caregiver Insight: Writing is not the only way to communicate—encouraging strengths in spoken language, technology, or creative projects can help individuals with dysgraphia feel successful and confident.

Definition: Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a condition in which the brain struggles to process sensory input efficiently. This means sounds, textures, lights, and movements may feel overwhelming, confusing, or, in some cases, underwhelming. Some individuals with SPD experience hypersensitivity (overreacting to stimuli), while others experience hyposensitivity (under-reacting to stimuli). SPD can exist independently or alongside conditions such as autism, ADHD, or anxiety. Example: A child with SPD may feel intense discomfort from clothing tags but find deep-pressure hugs calming and soothing. Caregiver Insight: Sensory needs are not misbehavior or overreactions—they reflect how the brain processes information. Adjusting the environment rather than forcing change helps neurodivergent individuals feel more comfortable. Common Traits of Individuals with SPD Individuals with SPD experience sensory challenges in different ways: Hypersensitivity (Sensory Overload): • Strong reactions to loud noises, bright lights, strong smells, or unexpected touches. • Difficulty focusing in chaotic environments. • Avoidance of certain clothing textures or food textures. Hyposensitivity (Sensory Seeking): • Craving intense movement, such as rocking, jumping, or spinning. • Not noticing temperature changes or pain. • Frequently touching objects to seek sensory stimulation. Caregiver Insight: Identifying sensory triggers and preferences helps create an environment where individuals with SPD feel safe and comfortable. Supporting Individuals with SPD Effective support strategies include: • Creating sensory-friendly spaces by adjusting lighting, noise levels, and textures to match comfort needs. • Using sensory tools such as weighted blankets, fidget toys, and noise-canceling headphones to regulate sensory input. • Allowing sensory breaks, giving individuals time to step away from overwhelming environments to prevent meltdowns. • Respecting sensory boundaries by avoiding forced exposure to uncomfortable sensory experiences and allowing individuals to set their own comfort limits. • Encouraging sensory exploration in safe ways, such as sensory bins and deep-pressure activities. Caregiver Insight: Small sensory adjustments can have a profound impact—comfort and regulation lead to better focus, emotional balance, and confidence.

Definition: Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurological condition characterized by involuntary movements and vocalizations known as tics. Tics can be motor (physical movements such as blinking or head jerks) or vocal (sounds such as humming, throat clearing, or repeating words). Example: A child with TS may unintentionally twitch their fingers or repeat a certain phrase even though they do not want to. Caregiver Insight: Tics are not purposeful behaviors—they are involuntary. Understanding this helps reduce stigma and frustration for individuals with TS. Common Traits of Individuals with TS TS varies from person to person, but common characteristics include: • Motor tics, such as blinking, shoulder shrugging, facial grimacing, or jerking movements. • Vocal tics, including humming, sniffing, throat clearing, repeating words, or sudden outbursts. • Waxing and waning symptoms, as tic frequency and intensity may change over time. • Increased tics during stress or excitement, with strong emotions temporarily intensifying tic activity. • Coexisting conditions, as many individuals with TS also experience ADHD, OCD, anxiety, or sensory sensitivities. • Strengths in focus and resilience, with many individuals developing strong coping strategies and deep personal insight. Caregiver Insight: The best way to support someone with TS is to avoid drawing unnecessary attention to their tics and provide a safe, accepting environment. Supporting Individuals with TS Effective support strategies include: • Teaching self-acceptance, reinforcing that tics are not something to be ashamed of, and reducing stigma to improve confidence. • Avoiding forced tic suppression, as holding back tics can lead to stress and discomfort. • Providing coping strategies for high-stress situations, including relaxation techniques to help minimize tic severity. • Encouraging self-advocacy, helping individuals explain TS to others to foster understanding. • Creating tic-friendly environments, ensuring social situations are free of unnecessary judgment. Caregiver Insight: TS does not define a person—it is just one part of their unique neurodivergent identity.

Definition: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a neurological condition characterized by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) used to relieve anxiety. OCD is not simply a preference for order—it is a condition where thoughts and rituals can feel overwhelming and uncontrollable. Example: A child with OCD may experience intense distress if they do not check the door lock multiple times, even though they logically understand that it is secure. Caregiver Insight: OCD is not a matter of personal preference—it involves genuine struggles with intrusive thoughts and compulsive actions. Compassion and structured support can help reduce distress. Common Traits of Individuals with OCD OCD manifests in various ways, but common characteristics include: • Obsessions, such as persistent fears or intrusive thoughts (e.g., "What if I get sick from touching this?"). • Compulsions, which are repetitive actions aimed at reducing anxiety (e.g., excessive handwashing, counting, or checking). • Ritualized thinking, involving strict patterns or routines followed to prevent distress. • An overactive sense of responsibility, leading to excessive worry about making mistakes or causing harm. • Difficulty ignoring intrusive thoughts, often resulting in strong emotional reactions. • Strengths in attention to detail and problem-solving, with many individuals excelling in analytical thinking and structured tasks. Caregiver Insight: Breaking down compulsions into manageable changes over time can help individuals gain confidence and reduce distress. Supporting Individuals with OCD Effective support strategies include: • Encouraging gradual exposure to triggers, allowing individuals to manage compulsions in small, manageable steps. • Avoiding pressure to simply "stop" compulsions, as suppression without alternative strategies can increase anxiety. • Teaching coping techniques such as deep breathing, distraction methods, and alternative rituals to reduce stress. • Providing structure and predictability, as clear expectations help ease uncertainty and anxiety. • Validating feelings without reinforcing fears, reassuring individuals that their challenges are acknowledged while fostering confidence and safety. Caregiver Insight: Rather than attempting to "fix" OCD behaviors, supporting individuals in developing alternative coping strategies builds long-term resilience.

Definition: Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a behavioral profile of autism in which individuals experience extreme difficulty with everyday demands and expectations due to anxiety and a need for control. People with PDA often resist direct instructions, structured tasks, and authority-based interactions—not out of defiance, but because demands feel overwhelming or triggering. Example: A child with PDA may refuse to get dressed for school, even though they enjoy school, because the expectation itself feels emotionally distressing. Caregiver Insight: PDA is not about stubbornness—it is a deeply rooted anxiety response. Supporting individuals with PDA requires flexibility, autonomy, and creative approaches to expectations. Common Traits of Individuals with PDA PDA manifests differently in each person, but common characteristics include: • Intense avoidance of demands, with extreme stress when faced with instructions, requests, or expectations. • A strong need for control, preferring choices, negotiation, or indirect prompts instead of direct instructions. • High social awareness, as many individuals with PDA are extremely perceptive and recognize social cues easily. • Mood-driven behavior, where responses vary depending on emotional state rather than routine-based reactions. • Use of humor or distraction to avoid tasks, redirecting focus through jokes or changing the subject. • Strengths in problem-solving and creative thinking, thriving when allowed autonomy within structured environments. Caregiver Insight: Traditional discipline or strict routines often backfire—individuals with PDA respond better to autonomy, flexibility, and low-pressure environments. Supporting Individuals with PDA Effective support strategies include: • Offering choices instead of commands, such as “Would you like to put on your shoes or jacket first?” rather than a direct instruction like “Get dressed now.” • Reducing pressure on expectations, avoiding urgency to allow time and space for individuals to regulate responses. • Using indirect or playful language, framing requests as suggestions, humor, or imaginative scenarios. • Validating feelings without forcing compliance, acknowledging their distress while giving space to self-regulate. • Encouraging self-directed problem-solving, as individuals with PDA often excel when allowed to approach tasks on their own terms. Caregiver Insight: Lowering pressure does not mean removing expectations—it means adapting the approach to meet the individual’s needs in a way that fosters confidence and independence.

Definition: Trauma-Induced Neurodivergence occurs when a person’s brain changes in response to significant stress, adversity, or trauma, affecting cognition, emotional regulation, sensory processing, and executive functioning. These changes can result from early childhood experiences, PTSD, prolonged stress, or medical trauma. Example: A person who experienced severe neglect in childhood may struggle with emotional regulation or sensory sensitivities, leading to responses similar to those seen in ADHD or autism. Caregiver Insight: Trauma does not only affect emotions—it physically alters brain development and function. Supporting individuals with trauma-based neurodivergence requires compassion, patience, and personalized strategies. Common Traits of Trauma-Induced Neurodivergence Individuals with trauma-based neurodivergence may experience: • Executive functioning challenges, including difficulty planning, organizing, or managing daily responsibilities. • Emotional dysregulation, leading to strong emotional reactions, difficulty calming down, and heightened sensitivity to stress. • Sensory processing differences, causing overwhelming responses to sounds, lights, textures, or environments. • Dissociation and hypervigilance, making individuals feel disconnected from reality or constantly on edge due to perceived danger. • Difficulty with trust and attachment, with struggles in forming relationships due to past trauma. • Strengths in resilience and adaptability, as many trauma survivors develop strong problem-solving skills and deep emotional intelligence. Caregiver Insight: Instead of focusing on "fixing" trauma responses, creating safe, predictable environments allows individuals to regain a sense of stability and control. Supporting Individuals with Trauma-Induced Neurodivergence Effective support strategies include: • Prioritizing emotional safety through consistent, predictable routines that reduce stress and promote stability. • Validating their experience, offering reassurance such as, "I see how hard this is for you. You’re safe here," to build trust. • Offering sensory-based coping tools, including weighted blankets, grounding exercises, and movement-based activities to help regulate responses. • Encouraging self-paced healing, recognizing that recovery is not linear and that patience and space help rebuild confidence. • Avoiding punishment-based responses, understanding that trauma-based behaviors are not defiance but survival mechanisms. Caregiver Insight: Healing is not about forcing someone to "move on"—it is about creating spaces where they feel secure, understood, and supported.

Definition: Brain Injury-Induced Neurodivergence occurs when neurological function changes due to a traumatic brain injury (TBI), stroke, or other neurological event. These changes can impact cognitive processing, emotional regulation, sensory sensitivity, and executive functioning, leading to lifelong neurodivergent traits. Example: A person who experiences a brain injury may develop difficulties with memory and impulse control while also gaining a heightened ability to recognize patterns or details. Caregiver Insight: Brain injuries can reshape how a person thinks, feels, and experiences the world. Supportive strategies help individuals adjust while embracing new strengths. Common Traits of Brain Injury-Induced Neurodivergence Depending on the severity and location of the brain injury, individuals may experience: • Changes in emotional regulation, leading to stronger emotional responses, mood swings, or difficulty managing frustration. • Memory and processing challenges, causing struggles with recall, concentration, or multi-step tasks. • Sensory sensitivities, resulting in overwhelming responses to noise, light, touch, or movement. • Difficulty with social interactions, with changes in communication style or challenges in interpreting social cues. • Executive functioning differences, affecting planning, organization, or impulse control. • Strengths in resilience and adaptive thinking, as many individuals develop strong problem-solving skills and unique approaches to learning. Caregiver Insight: Supporting individuals with brain injury-related neurodivergence is not about reversing changes—it is about finding new ways to succeed. Supporting Individuals with Brain Injury-Induced Neurodivergence Effective support strategies include: • Encouraging routine and predictability, using clear schedules to reduce cognitive overload and improve focus. • Utilizing memory aids and assistive tools, such as visual reminders and structured supports to enhance recall and organization. • Adapting sensory environments by adjusting noise levels and lighting to prevent sensory overload. • Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps, as multi-step instructions can be overwhelming. • Offering emotional support and validation, reassuring individuals with statements like, "I know this feels different for you, but you’re not alone." Caregiver Insight: Brain injuries do not erase intelligence—they change how it is expressed. Patience and adaptability help individuals regain confidence and navigate new strengths.