Throughout this site we use this Peach colour to highlight information and advice for neurodivergent people and those with learning differences.

“Great minds don’t always think alike”

What is Neurdervisity?

Neurodiversity is a word used to explain the unique ways everybody’s brains work. No two brains function alike.

What is Neurodivergent?

Neurodivergent means some people’s brains work a little differently than most people’s brains. It recognises that some people think and learn in unique ways.
The term ‘neurodivergent’ is used to describe a persons alternative thinking style which these are known as:

Dyslexia – Your brain tends to be better at creativity and visual observations rather than spelling and writing.
DCD (Dyspraxia) – Your brain tends to better at spotting patterns, creativity and problem solving rather than coordination.
Dyscalculia – Your brain tends to better at creativity, problem solving and using words rather than numbers.
Autism – Your brain tends to be better at analysing, attention to detail and memorising things rather than communication.
ADHD – Your brain tends to be better at creativity, empathy and having a unique perspective on things rather than concentration.
Tourette’s & Tic disorders (repetitive movements/unwanted sounds) – Your brain has enhanced memory for planning and speaking languages.

Why being neurdivergent is not a bad thing

Someone who is neurodivergent may need extra help in school to learn or do some things and this is okay. It is important to remember that everyone is different, and those differences can be really cool as we all have different talents (do you know neurodivergent people tend to have higher ‘creative’ intelligence!). We should celebrate everyone’s unique way of thinking!

Being neurodivergent should not stop anyone from achieving big things…

“Famous people who are neurodivergent – GRETA THUNBERG – BILLIE EILISH – TIM BURTON – DANIEL RADCLIFFE – PLUMBELLA – RICHARD BRANSON – DAVID BECKHAM.”

Resources to support neurodivergent young people in Suffolk

The Source asked young members of their SEND Network what would help them feel more supported in school from their teachers and friends. Students helped us create the poster below to support Neurodivergent young people in school:

Neurodiverse-Tips-for-students-draft Download

What helps me in school?

This is the support that our young people told us they want more of in school:

Doodling – Helps to control emotions, cope, calming.
Listening to music before a lesson.
Headphones.
Books.
Sports.
Being able to rap.
Hobbies and interests.
Talking to close family.

What’s important to us in school, is there anything that could be done differently?

Teachers – To understand us.
Things that help in lesson – Doodle paper, Blue tac.
Support managing emotions/anger – Noises, unwanted sounds can be triggering to us.
Give us “time out” if we need it.

How I accepted myself as a neurodivergent person – Kooth article