Neurodiversity Training for Schools
Neurodivergent Learners
Understanding the impact of neurodivergence in the classroom helps teachers create supportive and accessible learning environments, promote positive social interactions, and reduce potential stigmatisation or misunderstandings.
Teachers who are knowledgeable about neurodivergence can provide appropriate accommodations, interventions, and specialised support, fostering student engagement, confidence, and academic success.
Ultimately, this understanding allows for an inclusive classroom where all students have equal opportunities to learn, grow, and reach their full potential.
Executive Function Deficit in ND Learners
Research shows that direct instruction with appropriate goal-setting and scaffolding is the best method to develop Executive Skills in ND young people.
Schools and Teachers play a vital role in helping ND learners develop executive functions. Here are some strategies:
Direct instruction: Teach strategies for organisation, time management, planning, and self-regulation.
Chunking: Breaking down tasks into manageable steps providing clear expectations will help navigating complex assignments.
Visual aids: schedules, checklists, textbooks, model answers, materials from lessons available online, clear deadlines.
Structured routines: Predictable environment that supports executive function development. This includes clearly defined expectations for transitions, materials organisation, and task completion.
Assistive technology: teach your students how to use their electronic devices for organisation, e.g. digital planners, reminder apps, or voice-to-text software, can aid ND students in compensating for executive function deficits and promoting independence.
Metacognitive strategies: Teachers can encourage self-reflection, goal setting, and self-monitoring.
Working collaboratively with students, parents, and support professionals sharing resources and strategies to support the development of ND learners.