Understanding Neurodivergent Learners: A Guide to Common Differences & Support

At LD Expert, we meet students every day who remind us of something important: no two brains learn the same way. Some kids light up and become engaged when they can move and explore. Others think in pictures or patterns. Some may struggle with reading or attention but come alive when building, designing, or telling stories. These differences aren’t problems to “fix” they’re simply differences that should be celebrated and considered when making educational decisions.

This natural variation is what we call neurodivergency. And understanding it is one of the most powerful steps parents and educators can take toward helping children thrive. Whether you’re raising a neurodivergent child or working with one in a classroom, knowing how different brains learn opens the door to compassion, effective support, and students being able to reach their full potential.

What Is Neurodivergency?

Neurodivergency simply means that someone’s brain works differently from what is considered “neurotypical.” (We prefer not to use the word normal, because what even IS normal?) These differences can affect learning, communication, movement, attention, or sensory processing. Being neurodivergent is not just a disability or a deficit; it’s a different style of thinking. While it is important to be honest about the fact that some NDs are, in fact, disabled, they do not always have to feel that way. Neurodivergency can influence academics, executive function, using and understanding language, sensory experience, or even social interactions.

When we understand these differences, we can replace frustration with empathy and replace barriers with the right support.

Common Types of Neurodivergencies

At LD Expert, we specialize in working with students who learn differently. Here are some of the most common types of neurodivergence our families encounter:

Dyslexia

A language-based learning difference that affects reading, writing, and spelling. Children with dyslexia may read more slowly or struggle to decode words, but they often excel in problem-solving, storytelling, and big-picture thinking. With structured literacy intervention (the approach we use every day at LD Expert), these students can and do become confident readers.

ADHD

Children with ADHD experience differences in attention, focus, impulse control, and executive functioning. They may have trouble sitting still or staying organized, yet they’re often incredibly creative, curious, energetic, and capable of extraordinary focus when something captures their interest.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autistic learners may have differences in communication, social interaction, sensory processing, and flexibility with routines. Many show remarkable strengths in memory, pattern recognition, and specialized interests. They often thrive in predictable, supportive environments that honor their communication style.

Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)

Dyspraxia affects motor coordination. Tasks like handwriting, tying shoes, or participating in sports may be challenging. With the right supports, students with dyspraxia shine in creative, analytical, and relational areas.

Dyscalculia

Dyscalculia affects the ability to understand numbers, math concepts, and sequencing. Students may struggle with math facts or multi-step problems. However, many excel in reasoning, language, or visual-spatial thinking.

Dysgraphia

A writing-based learning difference that affects handwriting, spelling, and written expression. Kids with dysgraphia often have strong verbal ideas but need support getting those ideas onto the page.

Recognizing Learning Differences in Students

Early signs for Learning Differences can start as young as preschool, but many children aren’t identified until struggles become overwhelming. Watch for: avoidance with reading or difficult tasks, trouble focusing, difficulty following multi-step instructions, sensory sensitivities, challenges with coordination, emotional frustration or low tolerance.

A professional assessment, whether through a school or a private licensed provider, can help families understand what their child needs. If you are having trouble finding a provider, understanding what to ask for from the school, or simply want another person helping you interpret your testing, LD Expert is happy to help!

The Strengths of Neurodivergent Learners

Neurodivergent students bring extraordinary strengths to the table. Some think in images. Some understand systems intuitively. Some see patterns, others miss. Many excel in:

Creativity and imagination
Problem-solving
Innovation
Empathy
Big-picture thinking
Persistence

When we focus on strengths rather than deficits, children begin to see themselves as capable learners, and their confidence grows. Confidence is often lacking in our students when we ask them to perform in a classroom for the majority of the day. Letting them thrive in an environment that feels safe and equal to them is the key!

How Parents and Teachers Can Support Neurodivergent Students

Here are some practical, research-backed ways to nurture neurodivergent learners:

1. Adjust teaching to match learning styles

Use multisensory instruction, hands-on activities, step-by-step modeling, or visual examples. Structured literacy (our specialty at LD Expert) is especially effective for dyslexia.

2. Create structured, predictable routines

Neurodivergent students thrive when they know what to expect and what’s expected of them.

3. Break tasks into manageable steps

Chunking, checklists, timers, and graphic organizers can dramatically reduce overwhelm.

4. Encourage open communication between home and school

Parents, teachers, and specialists working together make a tremendous difference in a child’s progress.

5. Use assistive technology

Speech-to-text tools, audiobooks, visual schedules, and math apps provide meaningful support without lowering expectations.

6. Celebrate effort, not just outcomes

Confidence grows when children feel recognized for their progress.

Read More: How Parents Can Advocate for Better School Curricula

Conclusion

Every child deserves to feel capable, understood, and supported. Neurodivergency isn’t something to “fix”, it’s something to understand and honor. When parents, teachers, and caregivers recognize the incredible strengths of neurodivergent learners and provide the right tools, kids begin to thrive in ways that truly reflect who they are. Schedule a consultation today!