Introduction
Neurodiversity means that everyone’s brains work differently.
Neurodivergent brains think, learn and process information very uniquely and contribute to a diverse range of skills and ideas that have transformed the world that we live in. You may know them commonly as ‘autism’, ‘dyslexia’ or ‘ADHD’.
However, many of our social and educational systems were not built to cater to these differences, which means that neurodivergent individuals face challenges when trying to access the right guidance and resources.
Furthermore, the lack of awareness in many cultures has hindered progress as the vocabulary and language needed to identify neurodivergence don’t exist.
Therefore, it is crucial to understand neurodiversity and how it can create environments where all learners can thrive.
This guide offers practical advice and resources to help learners, parents, and educators support neurodivergent children and adults from all backgrounds. With the right knowledge and tools, we can create multicultural, inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive.
What is Neurodiversity?
The idea of neurodiversity recognises and values that neurodivergent brains are natural, valuable and unique. They differ from the ‘neurotypical brain’ and impact how individuals approach everything, from work, school, relationships, routines, hobbies and even daily tasks such as waking up, getting ready or cooking.
We categorise the differences and variations in how the brain works using terms such as:
– Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) – affecting focus, attention, and impulse control
– Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) – influencing social interaction and communication patterns
– Dyslexia – impacting reading, writing, and language processing
– Dyscalculia – affecting mathematical understanding and numerical processing
– Dysgraphia – challenging handwriting and written expression
– Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) – characterised by intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors
– Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) – an anxiety-driven need to avoid demands
– Tourettes Syndrome (TS) – featuring involuntary movements and vocalisations
– Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) – affecting how sensory information is interpreted
– Bipolar Disorder – characterised by mood fluctuations
– Hyperlexia – advanced reading ability paired with language comprehension challenges
As these brains work differently, we call them ‘Neurodivergent’.
Why is Neurodiversity Important?
In a world where innovation and creativity drive every industry, the human brain’s ability to interpret and process information is more crucial than ever. As technology evolves and challenges arise at lightning speed, our cognitive adaptability shapes the future, fueling breakthroughs and redefining what’s possible.
Neurodiversity acceptance shifts the focus from deficits and disorders to differences and strengths, embracing individuals’ unique thinking styles. They contribute skills such as creativity, problem-solving, critical thinking, attention to detail and pattern recognition in environments built so they can thrive.
When neurodivergent individuals are accepted and embraced rather than forced to ‘mask’ or conform to society’s neurotypical systems, their chances of suffering from anxiety, depression, or burnout significantly reduce. This leads to a higher chance of them achieving their potential and positively contributing to their teams at work or school. Unique perspectives lead to problem-solving in unconventional ways, highlighting their value and worth in collaborative settings.
Neurodiversity is as vital for a well-functioning society as biodiversity is essential for a thriving ecosystem. Society benefits from creative systems that work for everyone rather than forcing people to fit into the neurotypical mould of what is deemed ‘appropriate’, ‘normal’ or ‘acceptable’. More awareness in multilingual and multicultural environments can break the stigma surrounding different minds and behaviours to create balance, comfort and happiness for all.
Challenges Faced by Neurodivergent Students
Although all neurodivergent learners face obstacles in navigating a system not catered for them, those who are multilingual or from outside the UK face unique challenges that greatly impact their learning experiences and social interactions. These include:
Language Barriers, Expectations and Accessing Resources
Understanding complex English grammar or colloquial phrases can be hugely overwhelming. This affects language processing, which makes it harder to switch between languages. In the UK, resources, assessment or diagnostic tools may not be available in a learner’s native language and so do not cater for differences in language proficiency and neurodivergence. Furthermore, the UK assessment criteria remain rigid, focusing on verbal and written communication under timed conditions. These unrealistic expectations and pressures can hugely disadvantage students who excel in other areas or who do not speak English fluently.
Sensory Overload and Environmental Differences
An unfamiliar language comes with accents and unfamiliar sounds. A new environment surrounded by strangers means trying to adjust to cultural norms, which can be overwhelming for those with sensory sensitivities. This makes it harder to communicate and concentrate, increasing anxiety and the risk of ‘masking’ as learners try to fit into the mould and copy social behaviours
Knowledge Gaps
If a learner is undiagnosed, UK schools may find it tricky to differentiate linguistic challenges from learning needs. This can lead to misinterpretation and wrong assumptions from both sides, which stops learners from reaching their full potential.
Social and Cultural Adjustment
Neurodivergent learners find it challenging to understand social cues, particularly those who struggle with non-verbal communication or high-functioning anxiety. This may lead to exclusion due to differences in communication styles and interpretation. This can happen anywhere in the world, especially where awareness surrounding neurodivergence is limited. The lack of understanding and knowledge has created a stigma surrounding neurodivergence in many cultures, so learners could be suffering in their homes as well as in schools or at work.
Mental Health and Identity
The pressures of fitting in to conform can lead to burnout and anxiety. Learners without the knowledge or awareness of their neurodivergence may isolate themselves and struggle with self-identity, particularly if their language and culture have no way of defining it. They may feel unsupported and struggle with self-acceptance in all areas of their lives.
How to Support Neurodivergent Learners
For Parents, Friends or Loved Ones:
– Do as much research as you can through books, online resources, webinars and talks.
– Gain knowledge and awareness about neurodivergent traits, behaviors and signs of struggling with mental health.
– Have open, honest conversations with your children or loved ones about neurodivergence, the challenges they are facing and what you can do to support them.
– As a parent, speak to the school about the resources and tools available to support you and your neurodivergent child.
– As a parent, speak to the school about the resources and tools available to support you and your neurodivergent child.
– Have open conversations with others in your community if neurodivergence is a taboo topic.
– Speak to a GP or educational professional about how to obtain a neurodiversity diagnosis if you suspect you, your child or a loved one is neurodivergent.
– Speak to your GP and local council about obtaining an Educational Healthcare Plan (EHCP) – learn more about EHCPs here.
Learn more about each type of neurodivergence here (coming soon)
Learn more about the rarer types of neurodivergence here (coming soon)
Learn more about having difficult conversations surrounding neurodivergence here (coming soon).
For Educators and Employers:
– Provide bilingual and neurodiverse-friendly learning materials. .
– Train teachers and managers in cultural competency and neurodiversity awareness. .
– Educators must introduce resources through therapy and charitable organisations to ensure learners are aware of available mental health support.
– Allow flexible assessments and accommodations tailored to both language and cognitive differences.
– Create inclusive, sensory-friendly spaces that respect diverse learning styles.
– Encourage open discussions where learners and employees feel comfortable communicating their needs.
– Implement strict bullying and harassment policies to protect multilingual and neurodivergent individuals from discrimination, exclusion, or mistreatment.
– Foster a culture of empathy through peer mentorship programs, anti-bullying workshops, and neurodiversity awareness campaigns to create safer, more supportive environments.
– Celebrate cultural and religious festivals so that all individuals feel embraced and welcomed.
Learn more about creative, inclusive classrooms here (coming soon)
Learn more about neurodivergent-friendly workplaces here (coming soon)
The Role of The Learning Compass
At TLC, we understand the challenges faced by multilingual and neurodivergent learners. We provide a host of free resources, articles and blogs for parents, learners and educators to help navigate every aspect of the UK school system, neurodivergence and the language barriers. The platform seeks to match students with a neurodiversity-aware tutor who can cater to their needs, regardless of where they live, what language they speak and what their goals are.
As a multilingual platform, our diverse team of tutors creates inclusive, culturally responsive, and neurodivergent-friendly environments where students and their families can confidently navigate language barriers and societal expectations. By embracing different learning styles and providing personalised support, we foster an empathetic and adaptable educational space that empowers learners to develop language proficiency, critical thinking skills, and self-confidence, helping them thrive academically, socially, and beyond.
Conclusion
Neurodivergence is a vital part of human diversity, driving creativity and innovation. Yet, multilingual and neurodivergent individuals face unique challenges—language barriers, social exclusion, and a lack of tailored support.
Society must do better. Schools need stronger anti-bullying policies, inclusive teaching methods, and better training for educators. Parents and communities must advocate for accessible resources and cultural awareness within all places of education and work.
Instead of forcing neurodivergent individuals to adapt to rigid systems, we should remove barriers and celebrate diverse thinking. True progress lies in fostering neurodiversity inclusion and support, creating a future where everyone can thrive—not by masking or conforming but by embracing who they truly are. Our future generations deserve the freedom to exist unapologetically, knowing their identity is not just valid but something to be proud of. It all begins with self-love, self-acceptance, and the courage to embrace our authentic selves.
We have had enough. The time for change is now.
