Every Mind Belongs: Understanding Neurodiversity & Inclusion

April is Neurodiversity Celebration Month, a time to celebrate different minds and abilities! Developing an understanding on how to promote inclusion, acceptance, and awareness of the diverse strengths and needs of those around us, we must educate ourselves on neurodiversity and inclusion, as well as determine how to support the neurodivergent population. 

What is neurodiversity? What is inclusion? 

Neurodiversity and inclusion play a crucial role in generating an environment that embraces all differences. Neurodiversity represents the variations in how individuals process, interact, and experience the world around them (Harvard Health Publishing, 2021). Individuals a part of the neurodivergent population include those on the Autism Spectrum, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, learning disabilities, and other neurological or developmental differences. Since the 1990s, the neurodiversity movement’s mission is to not only challenge negative stereotypes about the neurodivergent population, but to create a world that is inclusive and accepting of all strengths and differences. Providing inclusive environments is a practice that embraces equality and opportunity for all without bias. 

Why is neurodiversity and inclusion important? 

Neurodiverse-affirming inclusive spaces allow for individuals to express themselves freely while being welcomed for who they are. Neurodivergent individuals may encounter challenges with areas and skills such as reading, writing, social communication, motor skills, executive functioning, and processing information. Since not one mind is identical to another, it’s important to grasp that not one approach is suitable for all. Inclusivity and environments that accept diverse minds foster growth, social skills and relationships, creativity, confidence, and more. By acknowledging strengths and determining how to support differences and needs, we make progress in dismantling harmful assumptions about neurodivergent individuals skills and capabilities. Also, a positive impact of increased self-belonging leads to improvement in “...quality of life - your mental and physical health, education, employment, relationships and social connectedness” (Centre for Early Childhood, 2025). 

How can you celebrate and support neurodiverse minds? 

We can all make a difference and change in how we support and interact with those around us. Whether it’s in the classroom, at home, in the workplace, or in the outside world, we are all capable of contributing to the development of a neurodiverse-affirming and inclusive society. Here are some ways you can support: 

• Language and Words: Your words have an impact! Use of affirming language when talking to and about the neurodivergent population promotes acceptance and can impact society's view. For example, using the term “differences” rather than “deficits” shifts away from labels and barriers. Terminology such as “normal/abnormal” imply that there is one way the brain works. Instead, “neurodivergent” highlights how individuals are differently abled (Cleaveland Clinic, 2022). 

• Sensory Integration: Individuals can vary in sensory integration, where some may be over-responsive (i.e., overwhelmed by loud noises) or under-responsive (i.e., seeking deep pressure)  to sensory input. Be flexible and provide options that can increase regulation. 

• Respect Communication Styles: Neurodivergent individuals may communicate in different ways than you (i.e.; non-speaking, written communication, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC devices). Regardless of communication styles, their opinions and thoughts always deserve to be heard. Include them in decision making processes, in conversation, and ask questions.  

• Individualized Accomodations: Some individuals may require accommodations or changes to their environment (i.e., visual supports, breaks) to fully engage and participate in tasks. Although these adjustments may not be needed for all, implementing them increases a sense of self-belonging and provides an environment that is non-restrictive or free from judgment. 

References 

Centre for Early Childhood. (2025). Why a sense of belonging matters: Neurodiversity and the shaping us framework. Retrieved from https://centreforearlychildhood.org/news-insights/guest-essays/why-a-sense-of-belonging-matters-neurodiversity-and-the-shaping-us-framework/

Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Neurodivergent. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/23154-neurodivergent

Harvard Health Publishing. (2021, November 23). What is neurodiversity? Harvard Health Blog. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/what-is-neurodiversity-202111232645#:~:text=November%2023%2C%202021,certain%20disabilities%20and%20neurological%20conditions.

Health Service Executive. (n.d.). Sensory processing. Retrieved from https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/1/lho/corknorthlee/therapy/paediatric-occupational-therapy/sensory-processing.pdf

NHS Dorset. (n.d.). Language and neurodiversity. Retrieved from https://nhsdorset.nhs.uk/neurodiversity/about/language/#c