Understanding Your Neurodivergent Child

What being neurodivergent can look like

Neurodivergence means brains that work differently — differently wired sensory systems, unique thinking, emotional intensity, and often amazing creativity, empathy or hyperfocus. Being neurodivergent isn’t a flaw — it’s a variation in human wiring.

• Sensory sensitivities (light, sound, texture, smell).
• Strong emotional responses to small triggers.
• Need for predictability, routine, or transitions done gently.
• Different ways of socialising, communicating, learning, and playing.
• Unique strengths — deep focus, creativity, honesty, caring, problem-solving, pattern-thinking.

Common challenges: overwhelm, sensory overload, masking & shutdowns

• Sensory overload — loud noises, bright lights, strong smells or crowded places may feel overwhelming.
• Emotional overwhelm — what feels “small” to others might feel huge on the inside.
• Masking: hiding true feelings or stimming because of fear, shame or social pressure.
• Shutdowns or meltdowns — a desperate need to escape, withdraw or shut down when overloaded.
• Communication differences — delayed speech, body language needs, or intense honesty.

How you can support and understand your child

• Create a calm, sensory-friendly space at home (soft lighting, quiet, predictable routine).
• Use visual supports (schedules, timers, social stories) to help with transitions and predictability.
• Respect their sensory needs — offer headphones, quiet time, sensory toys, movement breaks or stimming space.
• Use gentle, accepting language. Validate feelings rather than dismissing them. “I believe you. Tell me what’s going on.”
• Give control — offer choices: “Do you want to do ___ now or later? Would you rather sit or move?”
• Celebrate strengths: focus on interests, creativity, hyperfocus as superpowers — not “fix what’s wrong.”
• Be patient. Progress doesn’t always mean fast. Allow extra time for change, adjustment and processing.