Neurodiversity is the idea that brain differences are part of normal human diversity, and that there is no one “right” way of thinking or learning. It often encompasses diagnostic labels such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia and dyscalculia.

We prefer to call these as “learning differences” instead of “learning disabilities” because it recognises that some people learn and process information differently from others. It also focuses on the strengths rather than the weaknesses of people with learning challenges.

For example, while dyslexics struggle with reading, they tend to excel in puzzle solving, spatial reasoning, and make great conversationalists!

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common condition that affects children and adults.

Some symptoms include not being able to focus, moving excessively, acting on impulse, and difficulties controlling emotions.

Diagnosing ADHD typically involves gathering information from different sources, using checklists and interviews.

Interventions may include medication, psychoeducation, skills training, and therapy.

Some strengths of people with ADHD include tremendous energy, spontaneity, creativity and being hyper-focused on tasks at hand.

Famous people with ADHD include Justin Timberlake, Emma Watson, and the Olympic swimmer, Michael Phelps.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), or autism for short, is a developmental condition that affects how people socialise and communicate with others.

It exists on a wide spectrum, where two persons with autism can present very differently! Asperger’s was used to describe autistic persons on the milder end of the spectrum.

Some symptoms include atypical eye contact, difficulty in holding a two-way conversation, or showing an obsessive interest in a specific topic. They may also show rigid and repetitive behaviour as well as awkwardness in social situations.

Autism can usually be diagnosed through gathering information, including early developmental history—from caregivers and family members—as well as interactions with the individual using instruments such as the ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observational Schedule).

Interventions for autism can include behavioural therapy, social skills groups, speech therapy and occupational therapy.

Autistic people tend to be strong visual and auditory learners, along with having phenomenal memory! They may excel in their special interest area, such as math, science, music or art.

Some famous names include Sir Anthony Hopkins, Susan Boyle (singer) and Temple Grandin (American scientist).

Dyslexia is a learning condition that affects how people read and spell.

Symptoms may include effortful reading, difficulty remembering words and inconsistent and unpredictable spelling by children, while adults may show difficulty in planning and writing reports.

Dyslexia can be diagnosed in children and adults using tests conducted by educational or school psychologists.

Support for dyslexia include educational therapy to improve literacy skills as well as accommodations like extra time for assignments.

Adults may utilise accommodative work practices like using dictation software or using a specific font.

Dyslexics are often great storytellers, have the ability to think outside the box, and are able to think about objects in three dimensions.

Famous dyslexics include Orlando Bloom, Tom Cruise and Walt Disney.

Dyspraxia is a developmental condition that affects physical co-ordination, motor skills and balance.

Symptoms include clumsy movement, poor hand-eye coordination, and difficulty writing or using a keyboard. This can result in difficulties picking up sports. It can also affect a person’s visual-spatial skills, and related areas such as geometry or map-reading.

Dyspraxia may be diagnosed by a medical professional, psychologist or occupational therapist.

Dyspraxia can be managed with occupational therapy to manage everyday tasks. For children, it could include writing, teaching them how to use cutlery or to dress themselves.

Dyspraxics are often determined and creative, are highly motivated and show great strategic thinking.

Famous dyspraxics include Daniel Radcliffe and Cara Delevingne, while George Orwell and Ernest Hemingway are suspected to have the condition.

You can help us raise awareness of neurodiversity by sharing your story or volunteering your skills. Click here to contact us!