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Neurodiverse vs Neurodivergent – What’s the difference?

As a parent, you may have come across the terms “neurodiverse” and “neurodivergent” and wondered about their meanings and implications for your child. In this post, we’ll learn about these terms, look into their origins, and provide guidance on using them respectfully when discussing kids with thinking and learning differences. Additionally, we’ll share valuable tips on supporting your neurodivergent child and introduce you to helpful tools like Goally that can make a positive impact on their development.


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Understanding the Terms: Neurodiverse vs. Neurodivergent

Neurodiverse is an adjective that describes the natural variation in human brains and minds. It emphasizes that people think and learn differently and that this diversity is a normal part of human evolution. The term often describes groups or environments that include individuals with a range of neurological differences, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more.

Neurodivergent, on the other hand, is an adjective used to describe individuals whose neurological development and functioning differ from what is “typical” or “neurotypical.” Neurodivergent kids may have diagnoses like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or other thinking and learning differences.

Key Takeaways:

  • Neurodiverse refers to the natural variation in human brains and minds.
  • Neurodivergent describes individuals with neurological differences from the “typical” or “neurotypical” population.

The Origins of Neurodiversity and Neurodivergence

The concept of neurodiversity was first introduced in the late 1990s by Australian sociologist Judy Singer, who herself is on the autism spectrum. The term was initially to challenge the medical model of autism, which viewed it as a disorder that needed a cure. Instead, the neurodiversity movement promotes the idea that neurological differences are a natural part of human variation.

neurodiverse vs neurodivergent.
Read more: What are Neurodivergent Love Languages?

Neurodivergence, as a term, emerged from the neurodiversity movement to describe individuals with atypical neurological development. It has since been used by many people who identify as neurodivergent. It has become an essential part of the conversation around neurodiversity and inclusion.

Key Takeaways:

  • Neurodiversity was used in the late 1990s by Judy Singer.
  • Neurodivergence emerged from the neurodiversity movement to describe individuals with atypical neurological development.

Using the Terms Appropriately

When discussing kids with thinking and learning differences, it’s essential to use the terms neurodiverse and neurodivergent accurately and respectfully.

Here are some guidelines to help you:

  1. Use “neurodiverse” to describe groups or environments: This term is referring to a mix of individuals with various neurological differences. This can be in places such as in a classroom or community setting.
  2. Use “neurodivergent” to describe individuals: This term is appropriate when discussing a specific person or people with neurological differences, such as a child with autism or ADHD.
  3. Avoid labeling or defining kids solely by their neurodivergence: Remember that neurodivergent kids are individuals with their own strengths, interests, and personalities. It’s important to see and appreciate them for who they are beyond their diagnoses.
neurodiverse vs neurodivergent

By using these terms correctly, you can contribute to a more inclusive and understanding environment for neurodivergent kids.

Supporting Neurodivergent Kids

Understanding the difference between neurodiverse and neurodivergent is just the beginning. As a parent, it’s crucial to learn how to support and advocate for your neurodivergent child.

Here are some tips to help you on this journey:

  • Educate yourself: Learn about your child’s specific thinking and learning differences, as well as strategies and resources that can help them thrive.
  • Embrace neurodiversity: Encourage an inclusive and accepting environment for your child by promoting understanding and respect for neurological differences.
  • Communicate with educators and professionals: Work closely with your child’s teachers, therapists, and other professionals to ensure they receive the support they need.
  • Empower your child: Help your child develop self-awareness, self-advocacy skills, and a positive self-image by celebrating their strengths and uniqueness.

Tools like Goally can also play a significant role in supporting your neurodivergent child. Goally offers a learning tablet for kids and apps designed specifically for neurodivergent kids. This is making it easier for them to develop essential skills and routines.

Looking for fun ways to help your child learn life skills? Our suite of apps helps kids develop the skills they need to become independent with FUN & evidence-based practices.

Our apps teach executive function, language, emotional regulation, finger dexterity skills, and more! As your child develops new skills, you can increase the difficulty level of the tasks in the app to challenge and motivate them even further. This helps your child grow and progress at their own pace, while also keeping them engaged and excited about their development.

Final Thoughts on Neurodiverse vs Neurodivergent

Understanding the distinction between neurodiverse and neurodivergent is essential for parents of kids with thinking and learning differences. By using these terms accurately and respectfully, you can help promote a more inclusive and accepting world for your child. Remember to educate yourself, embrace neurodiversity, and empower your child as you support them on their unique journey. With the right tools, like Goally, and a supportive environment, your neurodivergent child can thrive.

This post was originally published on 05/12/2023. It was updated on 07/11/2023.

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