Belonging.

Help your child find a sense of belonging, for example, by introducing them to other people with similar interests or other traits.

These could be children of a similar age, but they could also be older or younger.

✅ Sometimes, neurodivergent children find it really helpful to meet other neurodivergent people. This helps them know they are not alone. 

✅ Acting as a mentor or role model to younger people can boost self esteem.

✅ Having mentors and role models can help children to believe their goals or dreams are possible. Knowing they are like other people, even if not like everyone or the majority, can build a sense of belonging and being good enough. 

Where can you find role models?

  • Clubs
  • hobbies
  • local youth groups
  • support groups

...can all be good places to start.

Role models can also be people with similar traits from:

  • books
  • films
  • video games
  • or the stories of real people.

They might be the same gender, race or type of neurodivergence.

For example you might read your child a book about famous neurodivergent people or successful women.

Stories about people overcoming challenges, even if the challenges are not the same as your child's, can be helpful. You can even help your child draw comparisons between their heroes and themselves.