Name change coming!

Neurodiversity News:

Welcome! Our blog will have a new name in the fall, Neurodiversity News, and congratulations to Jill Stevenson, service coordinator for Green Hills AEA Early Access in the south,  for coming up with the name.  She won some great items our autism team purchased from companies supporting autistic individuals. 


Neurodiversity definitions in the Merriam-Webster dictionary include:

  1. individual differences in brain functioning regarded as normal variations within the human population 

2. the concept that differences in brain functioning within the human population are normal and that brain functioning that is not neurotypical should not be stigmatized.

Judy Singer, an Australian sociologist coined the term in her thesis in the late 1990’s.  As we continue to learn each day from autistic individuals we recognize the vast area of neurodiversity in the students we serve.  

Temple Grandin, one of the most famous autistic individuals, described herself as “different, not less.” 

What can be an enthusiasm, as described by Barry Prizant in Uniquely Human, or a strength for an autistic child may lead to a potential career, advancement in a field of study, recreational activity, or hobby.  Steve Silberman’s book NeuroTribes also focuses on the future of neurodiversity and digs into the history of autism and tells interesting stories of the past. 

We can all strive to be more inclusive, understanding, and supportive of the unique needs of students so they can reach their full potential both in school and as they navigate through life. Have a great summer break, from the autism team! 


For more reading you can also check out this article on Judy Singer and the website https://neuroclastic.com/. 

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