Family Conversation Guide:
Invisible Differences & Neurodivergence

Overview

Talking about neurodivergence with our children can feel uncomfortable, but it's important!

While these conversations might feel awkward, open communication helps your child understand themselves and others better by building empathy, awareness (of self and others!), and acceptance. Below are some questions to chat about at the dinner table- be sure to listen to their perspective, and share your own experiences and questions openly. It’s ok to not have all of the answers! Being curious with our kids brings families closer together.

K-2 Families

What are some ways people can be different from one another that are easy for other people to notice?
Examples: Eye, hair, or skin color, height

What are some ways people can be different that are trickier for others to notice?
Encourage children to think about invisible differences- they may bring up their interests, family traditions, even worries.

People learn and play in different ways. Let’s think of some ways people learn and play in our classroom.
Examples:  Some kids love to run, others like to paint, some like loud noises, others like quiet.

Imagine a child who feels a little overwhelmed by loud sounds. How can others help them feel more comfortable? 
Examples:  Lower our volume, be patient, understand that it is “fair” if they need headphones.

Everyone has special talents! What are some of your special talents? What do you think some of mine are? What is something that is more challenging for us?

It's okay to be different. How can we be kind to everyone, even if they learn or play differently?

Sometimes we all feel different!  Who are grownups outside of our home to talk to when we have questions or feelings to work on?

3-5 Families

What do people mean when they say that everyone's brain is “wired differently?”
Examples: We all think differently, multiple intelligences, learning styles, disabilities

What are some ways people learn and think differently? For example, some people are visual learners, others learn best by listening.
Examples: Encourage examples beyond academics, like different preferences for sensory input, social connection, etc.

What are some challenges that a student might face if their brain works differently from many of their classmates?
Examples: Guide students toward common challenges like sensory sensitivities, difficulty with social cues, or differences in communication styles.

What are some strengths that neurodivergent people might have? What were some examples the students in the video shared?
Examples: Strong attention to detail, creative problem-solving, or unique perspectives.

How can we create a classroom where everyone feels included and respected, even if they learn or think uniquely?

Discuss practical strategies used in your classroom, like providing different learning options, being patient and understanding, and celebrating individual strengths.