Neurodiversity describes the idea that people experience and interact with the world in many different ways, emphasising that there is no single "right" way of thinking, learning, and behaving. While diversity generally refers to the inclusion of all people, neurodiversity is often used to describe people with Autism, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Dyslexia, as well as other neurological or developmental conditions. Neurodiversity refers to a group, or society, which includes a range of neurotypes, some of which might be considered typical and some divergent. An individual cannot be neurodiverse.
Autism, is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that is characterised by differences in social communication, behaviour, and sensory processing.
Every autistic child or young person has their own individual profile of strengths and needs and their needs can present differently across ages and stages. This is why autism is often referred to as a spectrum. It is important to get to know each person as an individual and to assess changes in their strengths and needs in an ongoing way in order to best support them.
Many different terms are used to describe autism and there is no firm agreement within the community of autistic people, parents and their broader support network or the wider community on the best term to use. Within the wider community there is most consensus for 'autistic learner' or 'on the autism spectrum'. It is important to remember that if a child, young person or family express a preference for a particular term, this should be respected.
Please click here to find out more.
Aberdeenshire Educational Psychology Service offers various training modules to support our autistic learners. These include
Understanding and Supporting Autistic Learners: Professional Learning Framework
Understanding and Supporting Autistic Learners: Universal Autism Training
Understanding and Supporting Autistic Learners: Self Evaluation Tool
Understanding Sensory Behaviours
The Autism Toolbox has a dedicated section on their website for ideas to support Transitions for autistic learners. A key message from the Autism Toolbox is:
“Autistic learners and their families may need individualised planning for the transitions ahead. The approach taken needs to take account of context and be relevant for the learners school stage and developmental level."
Advice and guidance (autism.org.uk) – National Autistic
Society has a vast range of resources and information surrounding autism, covering areas such as education, communication needs, sensory differences, transitions, and mental health.
Scottish Autism is an organisation dedicated to enabling autistic people to lead happy, healthy and fulfilling lives. Tap here or the link above for further information
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition, which is characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interferes with daily functioning and development. It is one of the most commonly diagnosed conditions in children.
Typically, individuals with ADHD may struggle with maintaining focus, organising tasks, and controlling impulses, which can impact functioning across academic and social activities, such as playing sports, maintaining friendships, and completing tasks.
While ADHD presents challenges, it is important to recognise that individuals with this condition often possess unique strengths and talents. With support and appropriate interventions, individuals with ADHD can learn to manage their symptoms effectively and thrive in various aspects of life.
For more information, please see below.
Click here to access the Padlet in full: Aberdeenshire Council Educational Psychology Service
Dyslexia is a common learning difficulty that mainly causes problems with reading, writing and spelling. It's a specific learning difficulty, and is linked with difficulties in processing information which can impact other areas of life such as organisation skills. Many dyslexic people show strengths in areas such as reasoning and in visual and creative fields. In the UK, it is estimated that around 10% of the population has some degree of dyslexia.
The Aberdeenshire Dyslexia Toolkit comprises Collaborative Procedures for Identifying Dyslexia Guidance and Additional Practitioner Support. These are aligned with the National Addressing Dyslexia Toolkit.
Dyslexia Scotland is community of people and organisations who believe is in a vision of a dyslexia friendly Scotland
Tap here to learn more about Dyslexia Scotland
The Addressing Dyslexia Toolkit is a free resource for all who are involved in identification and support of learners aged 3-18 years who are showing signs of literacy difficulties.
Click here to access the Addressing Dyslexia Toolkit from Dyslexia Scotland