Learn About Neurodiversity

Differences & Similarities

• Have students pair up. Ask them to think of one thing they have in common with their partner and one way in which they are different. 

• Repeat the activity with a few different partners. 

• Invite students to share with the class some of the answers they came up with. Highlight how everyone in the class has something (probably many things!) which sets them apart from everyone else. 

• Ask: Have you ever been in a situation where you felt bad about being different from others? What could we do to help everyone in our class feel like they belong? 

Amazing People

When we meet someone we struggle to understand, it could be that their brain works differently from ours. Here are some famous examples:

Core Standards

3.HF.3: Describe how to interact with those who are different from oneself and demonstrate ways to treat others with dignity and respect.

1.HF.3: Demonstrate how to express gratitude, treat others with kindness, and respect differences.

K.HF.3: Communicate respectfully with others.

Social Studies K.1 Identify how individuals are similar and different.

1 Social Studies 1.f Communicate positive feelings and ideas of self (e.g., positive self image, good friend, helper, honest).

Library Media (K-5).1 Establish reading behaviors for lifelong learning and growth.

Portrait of a Graduate Competencies

Respect: Acknowledge differences by looking for the good in everyone, including oneself, and show due regard for feelings, rights, cultures and traditions.