SEND | Neurodevelopmental
Recognising and Supporting Neurodevelopmental Differences
This page provides information on support and resources available for children experiencing needs or traits which could be associated with neurodiversity, such as social communication differences, attention, activity, and other behaviours.
These resources can be used by professionals and/or families and carers to help support a child or young person. All children and young people should be supported to engage with strategies at home and in school, or in the environments that are important to them.
Support is available if you or someone you know are having a mental health crisis or emergency, no matter what you’re going through.
What is ADHD?
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition characterised by a consistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity. Signs of ADHD usually appear before the age of 12 and may affect a person’s ability to pay attention (inattentiveness), manage high energy levels (hyperactivity), and control impulses (impulsivity).
These patterns may influence how individuals focus, manage tasks, and engage with their surroundings.
People with ADHD often have different experiences of executive functioning and emotional regulation. Not everyone with ADHD is hyperactive.
What is Autism?
Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition, sometimes referred to as a neurodevelopmental difference, that affects how people communicate, interact, and experience the world.
It is associated with a range of characteristics including
- different social and communication approaches
- sensory differences
- a strong preference for routine
- deep personal interests.
Every autistic person has a unique profile of strengths and needs—there is no single ‘type of autism’ or ‘way of being autistic’.
Signs and Challenges
Neurodevelopmental conditions may affect one or more of the following areas:
Attention, focus, and impulse control
Social interaction and communication
Sensory processing and regulation
Learning, memory, or executive functioning
Emotional regulation and behavior
Planning, organization, and time management
Many individuals also experience co-occurring mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem—often due to chronic misunderstanding, unmet needs, or lack of appropriate support.
Support
Support for neurodevelopmental conditions is individualized and may include:
Psychoeducation for individuals and families
Skills-based therapy (e.g., executive functioning, emotional regulation, social skills)
Behavioral and environmental strategies
Academic or workplace accommodations
Support for co-occurring mental health concerns
Therapy focuses on building on strengths, increasing self-understanding, and developing practical tools to navigate daily life—not on changing who someone is.
How to look after yourself
Below are some useful ways you can you to help look after yourself or others: