Supporting Neurodivergent Children Academically

What is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity refers to the idea that everyone’s mind works differently. Some children may process, communicate, and learn in unique ways that don’t fit into traditional educational models. For neurodivergent children, these differences can show up in how they pay attention, interact with others, process sensory information, and approach learning tasks. Understanding that these differences aren’t deficits, but simply alternative ways of thinking, is essential.

It’s estimated that 15 - 20% of children and young people in the UK are neurodivergent, which means millions of families are navigating unique ways to support their children’s academic and emotional growth at home.

Understanding Neurodiversity in Learning

When children learn differently, it’s essential to embrace approaches that work for them. At home, nannies and parents can try different strategies to help neurodivergent children thrive. These children bring valuable strengths, and their challenges are often tied to differences in processing information, not a lack of capability. It’s important to recognise and celebrate these strengths whilst offering the right support, so children can feel empowered and engaged in their learning.

Common Neurodivergent Profiles and How to Support Them:

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Children with ADHD may have difficulty staying focused, completing tasks, or sitting still for long periods. Their attention span can shift rapidly, and they may seem “on the go” or struggle to start or finish tasks, and might need more breaks to stay engaged.

Strengths: creativity, enthusiasm, quick thinking, big-picture ideas

How to support at home:

Use short, simple instructions and reminders to maintain focus
Break tasks into smaller chunks and offer regular breaks
Provide visual timers or checklists to help them track time and tasks
Praise effort as much as outcome, encouragement makes a real difference

Autism

Children with autism may have unique ways of processing sensory information, communicating and socialising. They often enjoy routines and have strong, focused interest, but may also experience sensory sensitivities that can affect how they learn.

Strengths: attention to detail, deep focus, logical thinking and problem-solving

How to support at home:

Use clear, literal language and avoid abstract terms
Maintain routines and prepare children for changes in advance
Create sensory-friendly spaces at home (e.g., quiet space, soft lighting)
Allow time for children to process and respond without pressure

Dyslexia

Dyslexia is a specific learning difference that mainly affects reading, spelling, and writing. However, it does not reflect intelligence, and is often associated with strong problem-solving skills and creativity.

Strengths: imagination, creative thinking, story telling, spatial awareness

How to support at home:

Use audiobooks and voice-to-text tools to make reading and writing more accessible
Give extra time for reading tasks
Break reading into small, manageable chunks with regular breaks
Practice spelling little and often, rather than all at once

Dysgraphia

Dysgraphia is another specific learning difficulty that affects handwriting and the physical act of writing, including spelling, spacing, and organisation. This can make it hard for children to get their ideas down on paper.

Strengths: verbal storytelling, creativity, big-picture thinking, problem-solving

How to support at home:

Encourage typing or using dictation to reduce stress during writing tasks
Focus on content rather than neatness or spelling
Provide graphic organisers to help structure thoughts
Use creative alternatives like comics, drawing, or story telling

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Creating a Supportive Home Learning Environment

While every home is different, there are some core strategies that can help create a comfortable and productive space for neurodivergent children to learn.

1. Create a Distraction-Minimised Learning Zone

Children with ADHD, autism, and dyslexia often struggle with distractions, like noise or background activity from siblings, that can make it harder to focus and learn.

Example: A child becomes overwhelmed trying to complete reading practice in the kitchen while siblings are nearby watching TV and dinner is being prepared.

Solution: Minimise distractions by setting up a calm learning space away from busy or shared areas. If a separate space isn’t available, try using noise-cancelling headphones. Keep the area tidy and free from clutter to help with focus. Encourage siblings to do quieter activities during study time, or make it a shared quiet time where everyone does homework in separate spaces. Afterwards, they can enjoy TV or playtime together as a reward.

2. Incorporate Multisensory Learning Approaches

Children with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and ADHD often benefit from using multiple senses during learning.

Example: A child with dyslexia and ADHD struggles to remember spelling words when asked to write them repeatedly.

Solution: Use a multisensory approach by combining visual, auditory, and physical hands-on methods. Have the child create digital flashcards with the word, its pronunciation, and an image. Encourage the child to type the word while saying it aloud, then check for accuracy. Use colour coding to highlight tricky letter patterns or silent letters. This kind of layered, interactive learning can boost memory and make it more enjoyable.

3. Implement Visual Supports and Organisational Tools

Visual clarity and structure help many neurodivergent children stay focused and feel supported during transitions.

Example: A child becomes anxious and resistant when asked to switch between activities, and forgets how to complete tasks.

Solution: Use a simple visual schedule with text and pictures to lay out the day, such as snack, homework, play, dinner. Add a visual timer to show how much time is left, and break tasks into smaller steps with a checklist. Point to the chart when it’s time to transition, and give calm reminders. These supports reduce stress and anxiety, and build independence over time.

4. Offer Alternative Expression Models

Children with dysgraphia, dyslexia, and some children with autism or ADHD may struggle with traditional writing tasks.

Example: A child has excellent verbal comprehension of a story but becomes frustrated and shuts down when asked to write a response about it.

Solution: Give children flexible options to show what they know in a way that works best for them. Instead of handwriting, they might feel more comfortable responding verbally, recording their answers, or typing them out. For longer assignments, speech-to-text tools can be helpful. Some children might express ideas more clearly through drawings or comic strips. In maths, try having them talk through their thinking instead of writing each step. The focus should be on what they know, not how they express it.

5. Balance Structure with Sensory-Movement Needs

Neurodivergent children often need a balance of clear routines and opportunities to regulate their sensory and movement needs.

Example: A child becomes increasingly dysregulated during homework, switching between hyperactivity, sensory overload, and complete disengagement.

Solution: Build movement and sensory breaks using a visual schedule and timer, so the child knows when a break is coming. Set up a cosy "calm-down corner" with soft lighting, sensory tools, and noise-cancelling headphones where the child can go when overwhelmed. Offer flexible seating like a wiggle cushion or therapy ball, and keep fidget tools within reach. If the child needs a break, gently guide them to their calming space. Over time, they’ll learn to self-regulate and return to tasks when ready.

The Role of Nannies and Parents in Lasting Support

Creating a supportive home learning environment for neurodivergent children is about more than academics. It starts with understanding how each child experiences the world and responding with care, flexibility and respect. As nannies and parents, we play a vital role in shaping routines and spaces that honour each child’s individuality. When we move away from trying to change children and instead focus on supporting their strengths and needs, we help them feel safe, seen and empowered. Consistent, open communication between home and care builds the trust children need to thrive, and taking time to truly listen shows them their voices matter.

At Kindred, we believe every step forward deserves to be celebrated. Progress may look different for every child, and that’s more than okay. With patience, collaboration and a willingness to adapt, we help children grow not only in their learning but also in confidence, resilience and self-worth. When children feel safe, understood and supported, they grow into learners who believe in themselves and know they are capable, just as they are.