In recognition of last month’s Neurodiversity Celebration Week, our SI Resources blog this month is focused on neurodiversity and neuroscience.
We’ve curated articles, guides, books and products to help better inform ourselves about neurodiversity and put into practice actions to be more inclusive in schools, clinics and when working with clients.
What Does It Mean to Be Neurodivergent? – this article by Verywell Mind takes a deeper dive into understanding the meaning of neurodiversity, types of neurodivergence and what it’s like to be neurodivergent.
Reducing Sensory Overload for Neurodivergent Individuals - this article from Scissortail Creative Services provides some great tips and advice on reducing sensory overload for neurodivergent employees and learners.
More Companies Are Adopting Sensory-Friendly Practices—Here’s How Your Business Can Follow Suit – this is an informative read on the value of sensory-friendly workplaces and how to adapt the workplace for neurodivergent staff members.
I’m a Neurologist. Here’s the One Thing I Do Every Day for My Long-Term Brain Health - this article is an informative read which contains tips to promote longer term brain health.
Handwriting Boosts Brain Connectivity and Learning – this article from Neuroscience News is an informative read on handwriting and brain connectivity
Neurodiversity Celebration Week: Adelle Tracey talks about being a runner and having dyslexia and dyscalculia – in this Sky Sports article, Adelle Tracey shares her experience of being an elite athlete with dyslexia and dyscalculia and talks about how she would like to contribute to an inclusive culture for those with neurodiversity.
Uncoordinated? You Can Still Be an Athlete – sporting activities can be challenging for individuals with sensory processing differences, particularly those with challenges with coordination. This article from the New York Times sets out some useful tips on how to participate in sports and keep fit when you have difficulties with coordination.
Books and Product Ideas
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The Out-Of-Sync Child: Recognizing and Coping with Sensory Processing Differences
This book* by Carol Stock Kranowitz is a great resource for parents and carers containing useful examples of how sensory processing differences impact daily life. The book offers tips and suggestions for things to look out for and try.
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Square Me, Round World: Stories of growing up in a world not built for you
Written by Chelsea Luker, an autistic/ADHDer psychologist from NSW, Australia and with over 50 illustrations by Eliza Fricker, this book* is an illuminating collection of short stories that delve into the distinctive experiences of those who navigate life feeling like square pegs in a world of round holes. From social challenges to sensory differences, this book aims to foster greater empathy, understanding, and a drive for a more inclusive world.
The book also comes with a discussion guide which makes it a useful resource for parents, teachers and therapists seeking to support and connect.
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Navigating Autism: 9 Mindsets For Helping Kids on the Spectrum
Written by international best-selling writer and autist Temple Grandin and psychologist Debra Moore, this book* presents nine strengths-based mindsets to help to successfully work with young people on the autism spectrum. Examples and stories bring the approaches to life, and detailed suggestions and checklists help readers put them to practical use.
Temple Grandin shares her own personal experiences and anecdotes from parents and professionals who have sought her advice, while Debra Moore draws on more than three decades of work as a psychologist with kids on the spectrum and those who love and care for them.
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Giraffes Can't Dance
Written by Giles Andreae, this book* has been delighting children for over 20 years and tells the story of Gerald the tall giraffe who would love to join in with the other animals at the Jungle Dance, but everyone knows that giraffes can't dance . . . or can they?
This book teaches children the importance of accepting their own differences as well as the differences of others and about doing things on their own terms.
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Sensory Beanbag
These beanbags* are crafted with a random selection of different textured and coloured fabrics, perfect for children who seek out tactile stimulation and sensory input.
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Sensory Fidget Tubes
These Sensory Fidget Tubes offer children a soothing visual distraction to help them focus and calm down. They have been specially developed for children and are easy for little hands to grip and the tubes are permanently sealed.
Each set contains four tubes that all have a unique mesmerising motion: soothing gravity spinner, fantastic fidget tube, calming glitter tube and magical reverse hourglass.
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Neuro Cards
Created by Amy Peters, a neurodivergent therapist who specialises in working with neurodivergence, these Neuro Cards are designed to be used by therapists, youth workers, support workers, teachers or anyone who works with neurodivergent clients or students.
The cards promote an affirming view of neurodivergence without dismissing the struggles. They are designed to explore and reflect on neurodivergent traits and experiences whilst helping to foster positive self-identity, acceptance and to improve self-esteem. With information and discussion points for further self-reflection, these 42 double-sided therapy cards can also be used by individuals who wish to learn more about themselves.
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Sensory Squidgy Fidget Pack
This is a fun set of tactile squidgy and stretchy toys for those who like to fidget. The pack includes a squishy fidget animal toy (a great way for relieving stress when you squash and squeeze it in your hands); a soft and bouncy light up ball ( tactile with cause and effect light-up mode) and a stress ball which is great for strengthening hands and fingers.
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*Affiliate link: SIE may earn a commission (at zero cost to you) when you purchase by clicking on an affiliate link.
NB: Sensory Integration Education is not responsible for the content on external websites. Sharing a resource does not imply endorsement by Sensory Integration Education.
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