On Wednesday, March 26th, we had the pleasure of welcoming Em Mainey from NeuroWild for a second insightful session with educators, therapists, and support workers. Em focused on the importance of building up neurodivergent children by strengthening their foundations—but she also introduced new ideas that sparked important discussions.
Key takeaways from the session
- Thinking => Doing
One common challenge among professionals and caregivers is hesitation of people in a child’s team applying strategies from others. Em emphasised that people do a better job of implementing strategies (“doing”) when they fully understand the reasoning behind them (“thinking”). This highlights the importance of strong relationships and shared understanding among the child’s team, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
- Be curious
When children experience fluctuating capacities, their behaviours are often communicating something important. Instead of reacting negatively, Em encouraged us to take a curious and validating approach by using “I wonder…” or “I notice” phrases. By doing this, we can better support the child and understand what they need without judging.
- Understanding fluctuating capacity
Neurodivergent children manage many different expectations throughout the day—from emotional regulation and sensory overload to expectations with friendships, schoolwork, and general fatigue. Some days, they might master a skill, while on others, they struggle.
Em used the analogy of holding balloons: as the day goes on, each expectation adds another balloon to their hands. Eventually, they can’t hold any more. When we ask them to do just “one more thing,” like sit for a test, they might say, “I can’t.” It’s not about ability—it’s about capacity.
- Respecting inconsistency
As Em put it, “Respecting fluctuating capacity means accepting inconsistency.” Rather than forcing children to meet rigid expectations, we can adjust tasks to set them up for success by:- Reducing the quantity or difficultyChanging the way the task is presentedIncorporating their interests
- Allowing flexibility so they can do more when they’re ready
By supporting neurodivergent children in this way, we create an environment where they feel safe, capable, and empowered to grow at their own pace. This session was a valuable reminder that understanding, flexibility, and strong relationships are key to helping neurodivergent children thrive.
How we apply these ideas at the Stronger Together Foundation
At the Stronger Together Foundation, we have developed group programs and spaces that accommodate sensory sensitivities, diverse communication styles, and emotional regulation needs.
Sensory sensitivities: crafting flexible spaces
Many neurodivergent individuals experience heightened sensitivity to sensory input. Whether it’s bright lights, loud noises, or certain textures, these stimuli can be overwhelming. Creating flexible environments where sensory needs can be adjusted is key. For example, incorporating dimmable lighting, quiet spaces for breaks, and sensory tools like noise-cancelling headphones can make a huge difference. It’s not about making one environment fit all; it’s about offering choices that allow people to tailor their surroundings to their needs.
Communication styles: encouraging diverse expression
Communication styles vary widely, especially within neurodivergent communities. Communication is more than words—it’s body language, gestures, hand-leading, eye gaze, a simple nod or smile. At the Foundation, we support multi-modal communication during group programs, and this can be demonstrated through modelling Key Word Signs, offering visual aids such as communication boards, implementing high-tech AAC, choice boards and more. To support following instructions, we can use a visual schedule, visual sequences to follow a multi-step activity, and visual lanyards.
Emotional regulation: supporting self-awareness and coping strategies
Emotional regulation can be a challenge for many neurodivergent individuals. Building environments that support emotional well-being involves integrating strategies like accessible calming spaces, having a large space for children to move their body, and a sensory toolbox that includes fidget toys and weighted plushies. Training staff to recognise signs of dysregulation and offer appropriate support is vital for creating safe and nurturing spaces.
By incorporating these strategies, we can build inclusive and affirming environments that go beyond mere tolerance, celebrating neurodiversity in all its forms. The NeuroWild workshop provided invaluable insights into how we can develop spaces that are truly welcoming and supportive, allowing everyone to thrive.
