Blog

To move forward, we need to educate ourselves about the behaviours that are linked with neurodivergence, and instead of requiring our children with diverse needs to modify their behaviour, the mirror sometimes needs to be turned towards ourselves.

We need to challenge our expectations and one place to start is to look at what we can change in the setting environment.

Is the space too noisy, too quiet, too stimulating, or are there too many demands placed on them?

The most important thing is to be aware of this and let it cross our minds. Only then can we truly accept where these children are coming from and recognise their triggered responses to certain stimuli.

Settings must be inclusive in their approach and create a space where all children can flourish.

We may find that our current resources for assessing development are primarily based on neurotypical children, so it’s our job to challenge them – supporting and approaching child development unique to each individual.

Early years professionals need to have a real understanding and acceptance for difference – being advocates of SEND children and their families.

And this needs to happen not because policy, good practice, or societal expectation tells us to, it has to come from the heart.