Here's how schools can better support neurodiverse students

Key points:

The number of children diagnosed with developmental disabilities is increasing, specifically those diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Today, nearly one in 10 children has a developmental disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS).

A key factor driving diagnoses is increased public awareness of the spectrum of symptoms of these neurotypes. The number of Google searches for both “autism symptoms” and “ADHD symptoms” has increased more than 135 percent in the last five years, from April 2019 to April 2024.

Common misconceptions and lack of awareness about neurodiversity can significantly hinder neurodiverse children in the classroom. In turn, this can create unwanted barriers to your learning, success, and overall well-being. That's why it's vital to employ trained professionals to help create the environments these children need.

To meet the demands and needs of these neurodiverse students, school districts are seeking special education professionals. As schools face a national shortage of qualified professionals, countless students lack the support they need to thrive academically and socially. To help educators address neurodiversity in the classroom for Autism Pride Day on June 18, the school therapy and teacher staffing agency, here are some best practices to ensure that all students can become successful learners.

Five ways schools, educators, and communities can support neurodiverse students in the classroom:

1. Implement Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

Each student has a unique way of processing information and research shows that multisensory learning helps improve memory retention and overall understanding of the subject.

Offering visual, auditory, tactile and kinesthetic learning methods, the UDL framework helps eliminate potential obstacles in the learning process and meets the diverse needs of all students, including those with neurodevelopmental disorders.

2. Consider individualized support

Teachers can work closely with students to develop personalized learning plans and strategies that address their unique needs. This may include offering extra time for homework, providing visual aids, or using assistive technology.

3. Promote social-emotional learning

By ensuring that students frequently participate in group activities and cooperative learning, educators can foster positive peer interactions and provide opportunities for students to form friendships and develop their social skills.

4. Use a multisensory classroom design

To accommodate different learning preferences and sensory needs, classrooms can incorporate designated quiet spaces, natural or soft lighting, calming colors, and sensory objects. Additionally, using visual aids, such as daily schedules and stopwatches, can be particularly helpful for students with autism or ADHD who may have difficulty controlling time and focusing for long periods of time.

5. Include inclusive books in classroom libraries and reading lists.

By actively seeking out and incorporating inclusive books, such as books with neurodiverse characters or characters with disabilities, teachers expose students to varied perspectives, experiences, and challenges that may differ from their own. This helps break down stereotypes and promote a more inclusive and supportive learning environment where students who identify with these characters feel seen.

Embracing neurodiversity in the classroom fosters a culture of empathy, respect, and acceptance. When schools prioritize supporting and recognizing neurodiversity, they create a more equitable and inclusive learning environment for all students.

By embracing neurodiversity in the classroom, teachers can create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment where all students can thrive.