Hi Reader,

Here's a question I was asked recently:

Should I use a Neurodiversity Affirming approach when I don't know if a child is neurodivergent?

👍 Yes!

You don't need a formal diagnosis to be neurodivergent. Self diagnosis and self-identification is absolutely valid.

So is 'neuro-questioning' - not being quite sure of the child's neurotype yet.

And in many cases, especially if you're working with younger kids, you might come across children who are on a journey towards formal diagnosis, or they might not ever go on that journey, and that's okay.

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But you might think that child is probably neurodivergent. Cool! Proceed in a Neurodiversity Affirming manner. and here's why...

My belief is that a Neurodiversity Affirming approach is a human affirming approach.

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So when we're supporting our children, clients and students, no matter what neurotype they have, it is so relevant to simply see people for the individual that they are.

Recognising their skills, their strengths, their preferences, their challenges.

So, maybe you get it wrong and you treat somebody in a Neurodiversity Affirming way and they're not neurodivergent... there's no harm done. You're still meeting that child where they are.

I hope you have a beautiful week where the world around you affirms YOU and your strengths and needs!

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Adina Levy

Neurodivergent Speech Therapist & Professional Educator

Play. Learn. Chat.

hi@playlearnchat.com • www.playlearnchat.com

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Learn more with me:

​ Parents - Neurodiversity Affirming Webinar Series for Parents ​

​ Professionals - Join my free webinar 'Neurodiversity Affirming Practice Kickstart: 3 Actionable Tips to do Today' ​

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🙋🏼‍♀️ Hi! I'm Adina, a neurodivergent Speech Therapist from Sydney, Australia. I’m so happy you’re here!

I’m an AuDHDer, meaning I am an autistic ADHDer. My life’s stories and experiences intertwine with my clinical experiences, and the lived experiences and perspectives of other neurodivergent people. These perspectives inform everything that I teach and share.

I’m dedicated to helping families, therapists, educators, teachers and communities to understand neurodivergent children better, and develop a deeper acceptance of children’s unique interests, passions, individual strengths and support needs.

I am an educator, podcaster, speaker, and I send helpful emails weekly.

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⚫️🟡🔴​ 🔵⚪️🟢​​ ​I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands on which I ​live, work and play - the Gadigal and the Bidjigal people. I recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. I pay my respects to Elders past​ and present.​ I acknowledge the traditional owners of the lands where you are reading this from today.

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