By Randi Locke
The start of August signals the upcoming school year. Setting up carpools and buying new school supplies are the first thing on most parents’ minds, but for parents of neurodivergent children, it means preparing for learning difficulties. According to Oxford Language, the term neurodivergent means: “differing in mental or neurological function from typical individuals”. The term was created in the 1990s by sociologist Judy Singer as an alternative to phrases like “disorder” to describe individuals on the autism spectrum. The definition includes individuals with Autism, ADHD/ADD, and Aspbergers. The term has recently been updated to encompass individuals with neurological differences like dyslexia as well. According to the CDC, 20% of the world’s population is Neurodiverse. Despite nearly a quarter of the world’s population being neurodiverse, receiving a diagnosis can be difficult. Historically, white children were more likely to be placed on the autism spectrum than children of color. A new study conducted by the CDC stated that 3% of black and Hispanic children are diagnosed with Autism. Due to a lack of access, outdated screening practices, and stigmas surrounding neurodiversity; the number of undiagnosed black children may be higher. Black children that are neurodivergent may have a harder time than their white counterparts but, with the right tools and guidance, they can thrive.
Seek A Diagnosis
There are a few reasons why black children fail to get diagnosed as neurodivergent. The first and most obvious is racial bias. According to a study by David S Mandell in 2007, Black children are 2.4 times more likely to be misdiagnosed with conduct disorder. This is because symptoms that are commonly associated with ADHD and Autism such as inability to focus and emotional outbursts, appear like misbehaviour to white teachers. Another reason black children fail to get diagnosed is due to the typical testing age. Most schools recommend that children get tested at the age of 8. However, recent studies have shown that symptoms of learning disabilities like Autism can appear as early as four years old. Behaviors like sensitivity to certain sounds and textures are common among neurodiverse people. When you notice these behaviors, make an appointment with a child psychologist to examine them further.
Pursue Neurodiversity Affirming Specialists
Receiving a new diagnosis can be scary for parents. Especially when there are still lasting stigmas associated with neurological disorders. Oftentimes parents can approach a new diagnosis with fear; some parents decide to ignore the diagnosis and hope they grow out of it while others seek out corrective therapies to “fix” the child. According to a study conducted in 2019 by Eilidh Cage and Zoe Troxell Whitman, attempting to hide neurodiverse behaviors or “masks” can lead to anxiety, stress, and depression Thanks to recent studies, psychologists and holistic doctors have created the Neurodiversity Affirming model as a way to assist children and their families navigate the world. The model was created as an alternative to practices like Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) that focus on eliminating behaviors deemed problematic; Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy encourages patients to embrace how their brain works instead of trying to work against it. According to psychologist Michaela Hughes, neuro-affirming therapists/ doctors must: acknowledge the child’s needs from their vantage point, work with their learning and communication styles instead of against them, encourage developing self-advocacy skills, and encourage their parents to embrace their child’s differences.
Involve The School
Most parents are unaware that schools can offer resources for neurodiverse students. If a student needs learning accommodations such as extra time or separate testing environments, it is included in a document called an IEP. IEP stands for Individualized Education Program and is created by the parents, doctors, and teachers of the student. Thanks to Section 504 of the US Rehabilitation Plan of 1973, schools are required to uphold the IEP. One thing that is recommended is for the students to be involved in the process. They must be able to voice what works for them and what does not.
Employ Resources Curated By Neurodiverse Adults
While taking the advice of therapists, doctors, and instructors is important, it is important to seek out advice created by and for neurodivergent adults as well. Although not all experiences are the same, they can help provide insight into what it is like to navigate the world as a neurodiverse adult. This not only can provide hope for parents it can also allow children to imagine their lives as adults. Online resources like blackneurodiversity.com provide information for black neurodiverse kids and adults that is curated by a range of black neurodiverse contributors. There are also blogs like Supernova Momma that share the experience of a black autistic mother-daughter duo.
Be Kind To Yourself
Navigating the world with a black neurodivergent child can feel isolating. Though there are more resources for neurodiverse children than there have been in the past; the world is still not made for neurodiverse individuals. Trying to help your child succeed academically and socially is a lot of work. Do not be afraid to join local support groups or ask for your family’s support. Remember that as long as you keep working towards your child’s future, you will both succeed.
