Neurodiversity Celebration Week is March 16th to 20th.
From https://www.neurodiversityweek.com/
Founded by Siena Castellon in 2018, Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. It aims to transform how neurodivergent individuals are perceived and supported by providing schools, universities, organisations, and others around the world with the opportunity to recognise the many skills and talents of neurodivergent individuals, while creating more inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate differences and empower every individual.
What is Neurodiversity?
From https://www.neurodiversityweek.com/neurodiversity
When it comes to inclusion, neurodiversity refers to a world where neurological differences are recognised and respected as all other human variations.
Depending on how our brains are wired we think, move, process information and communicate in different ways. Many people in our community use neurodiversity as an umbrella term used to describe alternative thinking styles such as Dyslexia, DCD (Dyspraxia), Dyscalculia, Autism and ADHD. But regardless of labels, neurodiversity is about recognising those who think differently. And no matter whether you are a school, university or organisation you can benefit from different thinkers!
Approximately 15-20% of population has a neurological difference. Instead of labelling people with deficits or disorders, when we use the term neurodiversity, we take a balanced view of an individual’s unique strengths and challenges. Many challenges neurodivergent people face are more to do with the environment and systems they are placed in, often designed by a majority population.
What is Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a neurodifference that affects a person's ability to read, write, and spell. It is often hereditary and affects individuals of all ages. It is not related to intelligence, and dyslexic individuals can possess many unique skills and strengths.
Fun fact: Keira Knightley has dyslexia!
What is Dyspraxia (DCD)?
Dyspraxia is a lifelong neurodifference that affects a person's ability to plan and coordinate physical movements. For some individuals, it may affect short-term memory and organisational skills.
DCD is not related to intelligence, and many dyspraxic individuals possess unique skills. With the right support and understanding, individuals can thrive and achieve their goals.
Fun fact: Danielle Radcliffe has dyspraxia!
What is Dyscalculia?
Dyscalculia is a neurodifference that affects a person's ability to understand and use mathematical skills. It is estimated that around 5% of the population have dyscalculia, which is often referred to as "number blindness", and it can affect individuals of all ages.
Dyscalculic individuals may have challenges with basic arithmetic, such as adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing. They may also have challenges with more complex mathematical concepts, such as algebra and geometry. Dyscalculia can affect a person's ability to tell the time, count money, and measure distances accurately. It can also impact their ability to understand and interpret graphs, charts and other visual representations of numerical data.
It is important to note that dyscalculia is not the result of a lack of intelligence or effort. It is a neurodifference that affects the brain's ability to process and understand numerical information.
What is Tourette Syndrome?
Tourette Syndrome is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by involuntary, repetitive movements and vocalisations called tics. Tics can vary in type, intensity, and frequency and often change over time. The condition typically begins in childhood and may be accompanied by ADHD, OCD, or anxiety. While there is no cure, many people experience reduced symptoms in adulthood, and supportive strategies or treatment can help manage tics. Individuals with Tourette’s often develop strong focus, resilience, and creative problem-solving skills.
Fun fact: Billie Eilish has tourette syndrome!
What is Autism?
From https://kidshelpphone.ca/get-info/what-is-autism/
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition (i.e. uniqueness in how the brain develops and functions) that some people are born with. It can affect things like your communication and behaviour in different ways. It’s important to remember that autism can be very different from person to person. It can be a piece of your identity, just like any other part of what makes you, you!
Fun fact: Greta Thunberg has autism!
Want to Learn More?
From https://www.neurodiversityweek.com/videos
Click 👇
Online Neurodiversity Comic BookFrom https://www.neurodiversityweek.com/neurodiversity-comic-book
Click 👇
Learning CommonsCome to the Learning Commons and borrow a book from our display! You'll find a printed copy of the first Neurodiverisy Comic Book on the display as well!
See you in the Learning Commons!
Read. Learn. Grow.
