Why we need
to support our neurodiverse kids
What is neurodiversity?
Every young person has a unique brain that experiences, processes, communicates, and learns in its own way—this is neurodiversity. One in five have brains that differ significantly, such as those with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, giftedness, or FASD. These students are neurodivergent.
With the right support, neurodiverse young people bring a wealth of creativity, fresh thinking and focus that employers are increasing valuing and seeking out.
Without support, neurodiverse young people are over-represented in the ranks of those who have disengaged with school, are unemployed, are in our jails, and suffer poor mental health.
How is our current education system doing?
Right now, far too few of our neurodiverse young people are identified by teachers or their parents, with significant lack of awareness about what neurodiversity looks like. Even if they are identified, many go undiagnosed because of cost and long waiting lists. And too many, once diagnosed, go unsupported because the programmes and professional help they need are not freely accessible within our education system. Further, classroom teachers lack …
“The result of this failing system
is a whole demographic of young people in Aotearoa who feel they are a burden because they cannot contort themselves to fit into a system designed with just one type of learner in mind, the neurotypical student”
- One of our YoungNeurodiversity Champions
What is a neuroinclusive education system?
We need to build an education system where:
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We recognise and celebrate neurodiversity as an important part of being human
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We grow the capability and commitment of teachers and schools,
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We ensure access to specialist resources as and when required,
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We support whānau,
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We empower neurodivergent learners.
Learn more about the situation for neurodiverse students in our current education system and what needs to change.
The facts on young people and neurodiversity
10% are dyslexic.
5% have ADHD.
5% are gifted.
2% have autism. Many have multiple neurodiversities.
An estimated
neurodiverse children and young people in NZ.
320,000
At least 50% of prison inmates have dyslexia and 25% ADHD.
1 in 4 women with ADHD has attempted suicide.
autistic people are unemployed.
Annual economic cost of ADHD in Australia.*