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    The Parents’ Guide to Neurodivergence 

    As a parent, you likely notice your child’s unique ways of learning, behaving, and interacting, especially when they interact with their peers. Although we know it’s best not to compare children, human nature can make it difficult not to. Observing your child and noticing their behavior patterns may raise questions and concerns about their development and make you wonder, “Is this typical?” 

    What exactly is neurodivergence? Neurodiversity and neurodivergence are related concepts that describe natural variations in human brain function and cognitive processing. "Neurodiverse" is a term that encompasses both neurotypical individuals and those with neurodevelopmental differences. "Neurodivergent" applies to individuals whose brain functions differ from what is considered typical or "neurotypical." This includes people with conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurological variations. The concept of neurodivergence was developed to dispel the misconception that people who have neurodevelopmental differences need to be "fixed" by reframing their unique perspectives as strengths. 

    Understanding neurodivergence in toddlers

    Neurodivergence comes with both challenges and strengths. A neurodiverse child is likely to face certain common hurdles, such as difficulty processing sensory information, communication differences, and even physical differences. Yet, they could possess remarkable abilities, such as strong pattern recognition, exceptional memory, or deep focus in their areas of interest, all of which have significant benefits. The key lies in embracing the unique traits stemming from neurodivergence while learning to support the challenges. 

    Most importantly, remember that neurodivergence doesn't need a "cure." 

    Neurodivergence represents a natural variation in brain development and function that affects people's thinking, learning, and interaction with their surroundings. Neurodiversity exists in 15-20% of people worldwide.

    A toddler's brain processes information and responds to their environment in unique ways.

    Your child might show signs of neurodivergence if their experience of the world differs from typical expectations. Several conditions fall under this umbrella:

    Autism spectrum disorder

    Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

    Sensory processing differences

    Learning differences like dyslexia 

    Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

    Selective Mutism 

    Recognizing signs of neurodivergence in toddlers

    Parents often sense something unique about their toddler's development before anyone else notices. Although each child grows differently, certain behavioral patterns might draw your attention.

    Your toddler might exhibit some of these signs:

    Limited or no eye contact during interactions

    No consistent response to their name by 12 months

    Challenges with back-and-forth communication

    Intense reactions to sensory experiences

    Distinct movement patterns or motor challenges

    Excessive fears and compulsions

    Repetitive behaviors 

    It’s important to remember that when informally assessing whether your child has neurodiversity, you can’t just look at one trait. You must consider the whole child and where they are developmentally. For instance, your child might process sensory information differently than other children. Some toddlers become oversensitive to sounds, lights, or textures, while others actively seek intense sensory experiences: 87% of neurodivergent children face some motor challenges. These challenges appear as coordination issues or unusual movement patterns.

    Trust your instincts. Your child might not develop as you expected or display some of these signs. A conversation with your pediatrician can help address your concerns. 

    The timing matters more than you might think.Research indicates that children who receive interventions before age four show substantial gains in cognition, language, and adaptive behavior. It can also significantly impact social-emotional development, enhancing social skills, improving emotional regulation, and strengthening communication between caregivers and children. Moreover, early intervention reduces short and long-term mental health risks, boosts day-to-day communication abilities, and prepares children for the social demands of school. 

    Where to turn for help

    Professional support for your toddler comes in many forms. Here is a list of different practitioners who support development. These therapists usually work as a team and help your child and the family.

    Speech and language pathologists can review your child's communication development and provide targeted intervention strategies. 

    Physical therapists can support your child’s gross motor capabilities

    Occupational therapists can support sensory processing, adaptive behavior, and fine motor skills

    Special Education teachers can support life in the classroom, adaptive learning, cognitive skills, and social communication skills

    Social workers and psychologists help support your child's social-emotional growth and can support the family unit as a whole. 

    Neurodivergence represents a transformation in our understanding of child development. Your toddler experiences the world in unique ways that reflect natural variations in brain development. These variations might appear through different communication styles, sensory responses, or learning patterns. Natural brain function and development create these differences rather than flaws.