Why we need
to support our neurodivergent kids
With the right support, neurodivergent young people bring a wealth of creativity, fresh thinking and focus that employers are increasing valuing and seeking out.
We should stop trying to get all children
to think the same way. We should support and celebrate all types of neurodiversity and encourage children’s imagination, creativity and problem solving — the skills of the future.
Richard Branson
Source: Billionaire Richard Branson: Dyslexia helped me to become successful
Without support, neurodivergent 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.
10% are dyslexic.
5% have ADHD.
5% are gifted.
2% have autism. Many have multiple neurodiversities.
An estimated
neurodivergent 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.*
Helpful resources to learn more
How is our current education system doing?
Far too few neurodivergent young people are identified, with limited awareness amongst teachers, other professionals and parents.
Even when identified, many go undiagnosed due to long public waiting lists and limited unaffordable or unavailable private options.
Too many, once diagnosed, remain unsupported with specialist programmes and professional help unavailable in the public system or privately.
Classroom teachers operate a “one-size-fits-all” approach, with minimal recognition of neurodiversity in initial teacher training programs or workforce capability-building.
Many unsupported neurodivergent students find school traumatising, impacting behaviour, achievement and attendance, and potentially leading to exclusion and chronic absence.
With few suitable educational alternatives, many neurodivergent learners leave the education system with minimal qualifications and their skills and potential unrecognised and undeveloped.
Hear from our young people
What is a neuroinclusive education system?
A neuroinclusive education system recognises, supports, and celebrates the diversity of all brains. It is an education system where we:
Recognise and celebrate neurodiversity as a valued and natural part of being human.
Raise awareness among teachers, whānau, and young people about what neurodivergence looks like and how to provide effective support.
Expand system capacity to ensure all neurodivergent children can access a diagnosis if they choose.
Guarantee free, equitable, and timely access to specialist programs and resources for all students who need them to succeed in their learning journey.
Grow teacher capability and commitment to teaching approaches that embrace and support all types of brains.
Support whānau in understanding, supporting, and advocating for their neurodivergent children.
Empower neurodivergent learners to recognise their strengths, advocate for their needs, and find spaces where they can thrive.