It can often be frightening when your child is diagnosed with a neurodiverse condition.
You may not know how to tell your child about it or be worried about their future.
This page gives tips on how to tell your child about their neurodiversity.
It starts with talking.
If your child is asking why they’re different, it’s time to start talking to them about their diagnosis.
You don’t always need a professional to explain the diagnosis to your child. You can often do this yourself.
Empowering your child with knowledge about their diagnosis gives them a better understanding of their capabilities, sensitivities, challenges and needs.
When a child is asking why they’re different
Children can tell when they are somehow different to others.
If they don’t know the reasons for this, they may come up with their own. These reasons may be negative, incorrect or both.
Being neurodiverse is okay.
Talking to your child about their diagnosis helps them understand themselves and other people’s reactions to them.
Neurodevelopmental disorders are often invisible, and sometimes people may under and overestimate your child’s capabilities.
Children who know about their diagnosis can:
- feel empowered
- be better advocates for themselves
- have a higher self-esteem
Remember, your child is brilliant in their own unique way.
The main message for both you and your child should be being different doesn’t mean being “less than”.
