Psychiatrist’s Guide to Parenting Neurodivergent Kids
Published in
6 min readAug 27, 2023
by Lauro Amezcua-Patino, MD, FAPA.
Ebook: “Unlocking Neurodiversity: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Embracing Brain Differences”
A neurodivergent child is one whose brain develops and functions in ways that diverge from dominant societal standards of “normal.”
Some key things to know about neurodivergence:
- It’s a natural variation in how people’s brains process information and perceive the world around them. Common neurodivergent conditions include autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, dyslexia, and Tourette’s syndrome.
- Neurodivergent brains are wired differently, with differences in things like sensory perception, social skills, learning styles, focus, and communication.
- It’s not an illness or defect. All brains have strengths and weaknesses. Neurodiversity advocates embrace and celebrate differences.
- Children are born neurodivergent. It’s not something caused by parenting. Early intervention can help develop skills.
- Each neurodivergent child is unique. Their needs may differ from developmental “norms” but supporters focus on accommodations to allow them to thrive as their best selves.
