Key takeaways:
Neurodiversity is a way to understand that everyone’s brain works differently and has different behaviors. Neurodivergence refers to thinking and behavior that’s different from what’s considered “typical.”
In general, a neurodivergent child has autism, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or dyslexia. But there’s no strict definition of the conditions that fall under the neurodivergent category.
Neurodivergent children may need extra support to succeed. But it’s also important to celebrate and develop their unique gifts.
Neurodiversity describes the natural differences in how people’s brains work. A neurodivergent child may think, process information, and behave differently from what’s considered typical. These differences may impact how they learn and interact with their friends. But they also have many strengths, and with the right support, they can be very successful.
Autism, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and dyslexia are often associated with being neurodivergent. But there isn’t a strict definition of which conditions or differences are included under this term.
As more people become familiar with the concept of neurodiversity, it’s common to have questions about the different terms and what it could mean for your child. If you think your child may be neurodivergent, we’ll explain what that could mean and give examples of what it looks like in children.
What does it mean to have a neurodiverse child?
Neurodiversity is a term that describes the differences in how people’s brains work and how they behave. The term was first used in the late 1990s, but it’s becoming more common. Research estimates that about 1 in 5 children in the U.S. are neurodivergent.
If you have a neurodivergent child, it means their brain processes information and their environment differently than other children. The concept of neurodiversity recognizes that one way of thinking isn’t better or worse because it’s different.
When people use the term “neurodiverse,” they’re usually referring to people with autism, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or dyslexia. Some experts consider other conditions, like tics, anxiety, and intellectual disability as neurodiverse. They may also include depression and schizophrenia.
But being neurodivergent doesn’t necessarily mean you have any of these conditions.
Neurotypical vs. neurodivergent
“Neurotypical” refers to people whose brain development and function are considered normal. “Neurodivergent” refers to a person whose brain develops and works differently from what’s considered typical.
People use the terms “neurodivergent” and “neurodiverse” interchangeably. But they don’t mean exactly the same thing. Neurodiversity describes the wide range of differences in how people’s brains work. Neurodivergent describes an individual whose brain works differently from what’s considered typical.
Add GoodRx as a trusted source on GoogleAdd GoodRx as a trusted sourceThe term “neurospicy” has also become a popular way to refer to the concept of neurodivergence. But there’s no firm definition of these terms. Neurodiversity isn’t a medical term, and neurodiverse isn’t a diagnosis.
What are the signs of a neurodiverse child?
Since neurodiversity includes a variety of different conditions and characteristics, the signs of neurodivergence can vary from child to child. Below, we’ll describe some of the signs associated with neurodivergent conditions.
Autism
The signs of autism vary based on type, which is why it’s called “autism spectrum disorder.” Generally, the signs fall into these categories:
Social interaction: Children may have trouble connecting with people or reading social cues.
Specific interests: They often have a strong interest in specific subjects.
Repetitive behaviors: Some children with autism have repetitive movements or behaviors. They also rely on routine.
Sensory differences: It’s easy for children with autism to become overstimulated with sounds, lights, or other sensory inputs.
For example, a neurodivergent child with autism might:
Have poor eye contact
Not understand when others are joking
Have trouble making friends because they only want to play the way they like
Not be very interested in other people
Not speak as often as other children, or hardly speak at all
Only wear certain clothes because other fabrics feel uncomfortable
Get easily overstimulated by sounds or lights
Need lots of hugs or use a weighted blanket to help feel calm
ADHD
The hallmark signs of ADHD are difficulty with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
A neurodivergent child with ADHD might:
Seem like they aren’t listening or have a poor memory
Have a hard time paying attention
Have high energy, even when they should be tired
Have trouble sitting down for activities or meals
Talk a lot
Do things without stopping to think about the consequences, like climbing on something dangerous
Frequently blurt out words when they should be quiet
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a common learning disorder that affects how someone processes information. It affects how children read, write, and even learn.
A neurodivergent child with dyslexia might show these signs:
Have trouble remembering or understanding what they read
Read something over and over and still not understand the message
Have more trouble doing schoolwork than other children
Act out or have behavior problems at school because schoolwork is hard for them
Avoid going to school
How to help a neurodiverse child
Neurodivergent children may face challenges because their brains work a little differently. But they can also have exceptional abilities that seem like “superpowers.” One of the best ways to help a neurodivergent child is to support and develop these strengths.
Examples of strengths that some neurodivergent children may have include:
Extraordinary memory: Children with autism often have strong interests in certain topics. Sometimes they quickly memorize facts about these topics. These can be historical events, science topics, video games, and the like.
Attention to detail: A neurodivergent child can be very detail oriented. This can help them develop a deep understanding of topics that interest them.
Logic: Neurodivergent children can have a talent for solving complex problems. Examples are math problems, computer coding, or video games. These skills can help with academic and professional success.
Creativity: Children with ADHD often have lots of ideas and can be more creative than their peers. Similarly, children with dyslexia come up with new ways to do and think about things.
Friendliness: Talkative children with ADHD can be charming communicators. They can be friendly and fun to be around.
Willingness to try new things: This is particularly true for children with ADHD. And it goes along with their outgoing, energetic personalities.
Visual strengths: Children with dyslexia can understand 3D objects better than the average person. They’re also good at finding patterns.
You can help your child develop these positive traits when you:
Connect with them about their interests.
Give them rewards for behaviors that relate to their preferred topics.
Make “boring” topics more interesting by connecting them to things they enjoy.
Make their environment more fun by encouraging their ideas.
Work with their teachers to adapt schoolwork to their skills.
Help them find peers who have similar interests and abilities.
What should you do if you think your child is neurodivergent?
If you think your child is neurodivergent, there are many people who can help you take the next steps. These may include:
Teacher: If your child is in school, their teacher may have insight into their learning and social behavior.
School counselor: You can request a school psychological evaluation if behaviors are interfering with learning.
Primary care provider: Let them know what you think is different about your child’s behavior compared to other children. They can tell you if there’s a diagnosis that may explain the behavior. They can also recommend testing if needed.
If you still have questions after talking to one of these people, you can also get a neuropsychological evaluation. This is a test that looks at a child’s emotions, behaviors, and how they think. It also considers physical health and social environment. It can help you figure out if your child has one of the conditions above or if something else is triggering their behavior.
Quiz: Am I Autistic?
Frequently asked questions
There are many different types of neurodivergence — many more than four. But four of the most common examples include:
Autism
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Dyslexia
Dyspraxia, a condition that affects movement and coordination
Yes, ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect things like focus and behavioral control. If you have ADHD, you may be considered neurodivergent.
Neurotypical usually describes people whose brain development and function are considered typical. In other words, their thought patterns and behaviors match with standard expectations.
It can be difficult to define what is “typical,” but neurotypical people may find it easier to:
Feel comfortable in social situations and understand social cues
Reach developmental milestones at the expected ages
Perform in school in a typical classroom setting
Focus on and complete tasks
Manage sensory input, like loud sounds or busy environments
Adapt to a new routine or environment
There are many different types of neurodivergence — many more than four. But four of the most common examples include:
Autism
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Dyslexia
Dyspraxia, a condition that affects movement and coordination
Yes, ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect things like focus and behavioral control. If you have ADHD, you may be considered neurodivergent.
Neurotypical usually describes people whose brain development and function are considered typical. In other words, their thought patterns and behaviors match with standard expectations.
It can be difficult to define what is “typical,” but neurotypical people may find it easier to:
Feel comfortable in social situations and understand social cues
Reach developmental milestones at the expected ages
Perform in school in a typical classroom setting
Focus on and complete tasks
Manage sensory input, like loud sounds or busy environments
Adapt to a new routine or environment
The bottom line
The concept of neurodiversity encourages people to recognize the differences in how people think, learn, and behave. People with autism, attention-deficient hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or dyslexia are sometimes called neurodivergent. They often need help to succeed in a world built for a neurotypical brain. They may also have special gifts related to their differences.
If you care for a neurodivergent child, you can use these strengths as an opportunity to connect with them and give them encouragement. This will help them develop their strengths and thrive in their environment.
Why trust our experts?
References
Austin, R. D., et al. (2017). Neurodiversity as a competitive advantage. Harvard Business Review.
Cambridge University Hospitals. (n.d.). What is neurodiversity? NHS Foundation Trust.
Dwyer, P., et al. (2022). The neurodiversity approach(es): What are they and what do they mean for researchers? Human Development.
Sonuga-Barke, E., et al. (2021). The neurodiversity concept: Is it helpful for clinicians and scientists? The Lancet.
Yang, Y., et al. (2022). Prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders among US children and adolescents in 2019 and 2020. Frontiers in Psychology.
