What is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity is the idea that neurological differences like autism and ADHD are the result of normal, natural variation in the human genome” – John Elder Robison

Vermont Learning-Support Initiative (VLSI) is an incredible local organization whose mission is to promote opportunities for neurodivergent* youth to realize their full potential. In doing this work, VLSI is a key health equity network partner as we create a society where we choose to actively develop skills and accommodations that enable everyone to contribute to learning environments, employment and community.

*Neurodivergent: Those who possess a brain differing from society’s conception of ‘normal’ (neurotypical).

Third Friday of each month: Neurodivergent Professionals Working Group: Authenticate – Translate – Educate – Advocate – Celebrate

An affirming space of neurodivergent individuals by neurodivergent individuals for neurodivergent individuals

Third Friday of each month from 3:00-4:30pm in person in St. Johnsbury and online via Zoom

Interested in finding out more or have questions? Contact Brad Smith, VLSI Director: bsmith@vermontlearningsupport.org

Other resources around neurodiversity include:

Kingdom Autism and Behavioral Health services the northern Vermont and New Hampshire area, providing efficient and intuitive programs to children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and other related challenges.

All Brains Belong VT is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization located in Montpelier, Vermont. We use principles of inclusive design to offer neuroinclusive healthcare and community connection.

Landmark College in Vermont – The College for Students Who Learn Differently: Dyslexia | ADHD | Autism | Executive Function Challenges

Yo Samdy Sam YouTube channel – Exploring the topics of autism and neurodiversity.

Kaleidoscope Society is an empowering community for and by Women with ADHD.

Click here to visit Vermont Public Radio’s broadcast “Neurodivergent Vermonters share what inclusion looks like to them”.

The American Institute for Learning and Human Development supports the creation of developmentally appropriate practices and rich learning environments for children, adolescents, and adult learners. It seeks to accomplish this mission by providing timely, practical, and cutting edge information via keynotes and workshops as well as books, articles, and social media posts on the following topics (click on each subject for more information):

Collegiate Coaching Services works from a strengths-based approach and seeks to shine a light on the value of the neurodiverse student and employee.

A forward thinking article written by Robert Austin and Gary Pisano, “Neurodiversity As A Competitive Advantage”; Harvard Business Review, May-June 2017, highlights that a growing number of companies, including Microsoft, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, and SAP have adjusted their “human resources practices to capitalize on the talents of neurodiverse people.” The authors report that many people with “neurodevelopmental conditions” have extraordinary skills, including in memory, mathematics, and pattern recognition.