The hitchhiker’s guide to discussing neurodiversity and neurodivergence

Summary

Many practitioners have a deep understanding of neurodiversity and neurodivergence through a combination of professional development, practice experience and lived expertise. Children and their families are increasingly identifying as neurodivergent and the sector is growing its capacity to deliver neuraffirming practice to meet their needs. However, families react to discussions of neurodiversity and why it matters in a variety of ways. In particular, discussions about neurodivergence can be complicated by a lack of shared language between parents, carers and practitioners as well as stigma associated with clinical diagnoses such as autism and ADHD.

This presentation presents an inclusive, plain language definition of key terms relating to neurodivergence that lay the groundwork for productive and informed discussions with families. We will share our findings on how neuroaffirming care can be explained to families, using case studies to demonstrate how conversations about neurodiversity and neurodivergence can result in productive outcomes for children and young people. We will also discuss some common myths about neurodivergence and how to dispel them while bringing families along their neureaffirming journey. Attendees will receive a pocket-sized card with a QR code linking to further information that they can share with their colleagues and community.

This presentation is based on extensive consultation with neurodivergent researchers and frontline staff delivering mental health supports to children and young people. Some of the practitioners were also parents of neurodivergent children, and some identified themselves as neurodivergent. This consultation was combined with research and practice evidence identified through a scoping review of journal articles, webpages and grey literature.

Reference

Helprin, H., & MacDonald, J. B. (2026). The hitchhiker’s guide to discussing neurodiversity and neurodivergence. Child and Adolescent Mental Health Conference, 16-18 March. Gold Coast, Australia. (Presentation)