How Teaching Neurodiversity Helps Kids Understand and Embrace Differences

Every child deserves to feel understood and included! Teaching kids about neurodiversity early fosters empathy, reduces stigma, and helps them embrace differences. By normalizing accommodations and shifting perspectives, we create a more accepting world where everyone can thrive. 

Today, I’m joined by Laura Petix, a Neurodivergent Occupational Therapist, to discuss how we can build a future of true inclusion starting with ourselves and our kids.

We discuss: 

• How neurodivergent individuals, including children, experience the world differently due to variations in brain wiring. 
• That teaching kids about neurodiversity from a young age helps normalize differences, reduce stigma, and foster empathy.
• True inclusivity means creating environments where accommodations are normalized rather than seen as special exceptions.

To connect with Laura Petix follow her on Instagram @theotbutterfly and check out all her resources on https://theotbutterfly.com/ and purchase her new book A Kids Book About Neurodiversity

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00:00 – Intro: Why Every Parent Needs to Understand Neurodiversity

01:26 – Meet Laura Petix & Her Powerful New Book

03:13 – The Dinner Table Example & Why Neurodiversity Matters

05:32 – Shifting the Narrative: Teaching Neurotypical Kids Compassion

08:06 – Kids Are Ready: Why Early Conversations Matter

09:40 – Busting Myths: Common Misconceptions About Neurodivergent Kids

13:43 – The Cost of Misunderstanding: Impact on Mental Health & Self-Esteem

19:02 – Rethinking Classrooms & Playgrounds: Creating Comfortable Spaces

24:42 – Labels, Language & Empowerment: How Parents Can Do Better

36:22 – Laura’s Hope for the Future: Inclusion Without Conditions

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