We all live with neurodiversity in our world, whether as parents, teachers, or individuals directly affected. It touches everyone at some stage in life, whether we recognize it or not.
My name is Sam Iurada, and I founded the "Living with Neurodiversity Project" to share our experiences and advocate for families affected by neurodivergent conditions such as autism, ADHD, social anxiety, sensory processing disorder, dyslexia, and dyspraxia.“Neurodiversity” is a word used to explain the unique ways people's brains work. While everyone's brain develops similarly, no two brains function just alike. Being neurodivergent means having a brain that works differently from the average or “neurotypical” person.
As a mother of a child with Autism and ADHD, I can attest that it is one of the most challenging journeys I've ever embarked on. There are days when the weight of anxiety and worry feels almost unbearable, resulting in moments where it’s hard to breathe. Parenting a child who is perceived as different can lead to feelings of isolation and a sense of not belonging within the community.
Recently, I met with a friend who also has a neurodivergent child, and we discussed our experiences at the school gate. She introduced me to the term "school gate anxiety," which I found to be incredibly apt. It encapsulates the intense worry parents feel while waiting to pick up their children—concerns about being judged or misunderstood by others. This anxiety can be overwhelming but highlights the need for a supportive environment where parents can feel accepted and understood, regardless of their child’s diagnosis.
Through my journey, I’ve learned that my son's greatest successes have stemmed from honesty and understanding. When he openly shares his identity, the challenges he faces, and the support he requires, it opens doors for both him and our family. As parents, we also need to create a space where open conversation, honesty, and acceptance flourish. This is essential for educating our communities and fostering greater understanding of neurodiversity.
Education and awareness are vital in helping us understand the daily challenges our children encounter—whether it’s navigating anxiety at the school gate, feeling overwhelmed in the classroom, or struggling to manage emotional outbursts. If your child has difficulty reading the same texts as their peers and requires assistive technology like voice-to-text or text-to-voice, it’s crucial that we come together as a community.
By accepting ourselves and our children for who they are, we can create a supportive network that empowers families to thrive. The "Living with Neurodiversity Project" aims to be that support, providing resources, fostering connections, and advocating for the needs of neurodivergent individuals and their families. Together, we can work toward a more inclusive and understanding society where everyone feels valued and accepted.