What Is Neurodiversity

What Is Neurodiversity - Caroline Miller 

Blog 10


Neurodiversity is a term used to describe natural variations in how the human brain functions. Rather than viewing conditions like autism or ADHD as “deficits” to be fixed, the neurodiversity movement frames them as valuable differences that deserve acceptance and environmental support. The neurodiversity movement was started by a sociologist named Judy Singer, who is on the autism spectrum. She saw neurodiversity as a social justice movement to promote equality for what she called “neurological minorities.” This includes people with autism, ADHD, and learning differences such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, nonverbal learning differences, and sensory processing issues. She believed we should shine a light on the strengths and benefits of this diversity rather than focusing only on deficits.

This made me think of Shannon Renkly’s work on asset-based models, where we focus on students’ strengths to support their learning. For example, a student may be very creative, and that creativity can be used to help them better understand the material. As an educator, it is important to identify and build on students’ strengths instead of only focusing on what they struggle with. I really liked the attached video, which gives helpful strategies for creating a neurodivergent-affirming classroom.

The article also discussed how environments can impact neurodivergent students. If a schedule is too rigid or a classroom is too bright and overwhelming, it can lead to sensory overload and overstimulation. This can result in behaviors that may be seen as challenging but are actually responses to the environment. This made me reflect on my own classroom and how I want to set it up. I would like to create a calm, organized space that supports all learners and helps every student succeed. How will you set up your classroom, and what strategies will you use?

 

 

 

Comments

  1. Lizzie BoyntonApril 8, 2026 at 3:48 PM

    Hi Tanya! I loved how you reflected on your own future classroom. I too want to create a comfortable and welcoming environment for all of my students. I think having flexible seating and dimmer lighting really helps the students not be so overstimulated. I'm so excited to create my own classroom environment in the future!

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  2. April FedericoApril 8, 2026 at 4:24 PM

    Hi Tanya! This is such a powerful reflection on how we view our students. I particularly loved your connection to Shannon Renkly’s asset-based models. It’s so easy for the traditional school system to get bogged down in what a student can't do, but shifting the focus to how their unique brain functions can be a strength is a game-changer for classroom culture.

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  3. Hope McCarthyApril 25, 2026 at 1:48 PM

    Hi Tanya, great post! Asset based learning is the most beneficial form of learning when it comes to students who are neurodivergent. I also completely agree with scheduling/time conflicts. Growing up, I struggled with rigid schedules and became overstimulated very often. Additionally, I really like the first picture you picked for your post and how it represents all forms of neurodiversity.

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