Neurodiversity and social skills

What is neurodiversity? What does it have to do with social skill development? 

At PlayGroup, we talk about neurodiversity as a way to discuss perspective taking, self awareness and confidence building with parents, schools and our children.  Neurodiversity means that all brains are different. In our social skills groups for younger children, we name neurodiversity and explain that all brains are different and important.  In these younger groups we even have a brain stuffy that we use as a means of check ins and conversation. With these tools, we can develop perspective-taking and an appreciation for the different ideas around us.  Some people are neurodivergent: autistic, ADHD, anxiety, learning disabilities, down syndrome, etc.  All brains are valued and important!  

When we discuss these differences with our children we see light bulbs going off.  In one session, after the neurodiversity symbol was introduced, a child traced it with her finger and said, “my brain is different and important.”  Even for our children not identifying with a diagnosed neurodivergence and are considered neurotypical, there can be a lot of validation when exploring neurodiversity.  We all have different needs, interests, wants, strengths and this can lead to some great perspective-taking and a better ability for self-advocacy.  When our children experience validation for neurodiversity, and develop perspective-taking skills they are better able to problem solve with peers, collaborate on ideas and take risks.  These are all important skills needed to improve social connections.

How can you discuss neurodiversity outside of PlayGroup?  

Talk about it! We talk about the differences in our brains all the time and we encourage it to be spoken about at home and in schools. Within your family you may have different brains: brains that are disorganized, or organized, likes loud sounds or doesn’t, needs to finish all of your tasks before fun or doesn’t want to do your tasks until you’ve had a little fun etc.. So next time you notice the difference in your family's brains, name and celebrate it!  Another way to talk about it is through books. We recommend these books as great conversation starters:

Don’t Hug Doug

The Rabbity Listened

Big Truck Playdate