Neurodiversity Celebration Month
Neurodiversity Celebration Month is a time to celebrate neurological differences, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and bipolar, as identities to be accepted and respected. The goal is to move beyond awareness and celebrate these differences as strengths rather than hindrances.
Description & History
April 2nd is officially recognized by the United Nations as World Autism Day. Consequently, many organizations observe April as Autism Awareness Month. Some have expanded the focus beyond autism and designated April as Neurodiversity Celebration Month. This aligns well with the global observance of Neurodiversity Celebration Week, which takes place a few weeks earlier. Here is a little background on how it came about.
Professional Learning Resources
We Need (Neuro)Diverse Books
This professional development session recorded during the 2021 AASL National Conference discusses how to serve our neurodiverse populations by enhance our collections and foster empathy and inclusion through our programming.
Six Strategies for Neurodiverse Learners
This Edutopia article highlights how simple adjustments—building connections, incorporating movement, and using clear communication—foster a more inclusive learning environment. These strategies are easily transferable to the school library.
Collection Development for Neurodiverse Students
This School Library Connection article explores how curating authentic stories and engaging with the neurodivergent community helps librarians create spaces where all students feel seen and valued.
Learner Engagement Resources
Educators 4SC High School Scenario
This is a lesson plan that can be utilized with high school students that walks them through a resource allocation plan for special needs students and can easily be adapted for neurodiverse students.
Neurodiversity Activities for Students
Neurodiversity Celebration Week has a variety of activities to host in your library to show support for neurodiversity. Activities include classroom discussions, guest speaker events, poster competitions, and research projects.
Book Lists
PBS Neurodiversity Picture Books
PBS provides 11 picture books about neurodiversity. Picture books are usually thought to be for elementary, but this collection can be utilized for all grade levels as a good way to start the conversation about neurodiverse acceptance.
Denver Public Library Neurodiversity Children's Books
The Denver Public Library (DPL) offers a diverse collection of picture books and middle-grade novels featuring neurodiverse characters. Designed for K-8 students, this resource helps educators, librarians, & parents introduce stories that foster empathy.
Denver Public Library Neurodiversity High School Books
The Denver Public Library offers a curated list of high school novels featuring neurodiverse characters. Showcasing diverse experiences, these books foster understanding & inclusion, serving as valuable resources for teens, educators, & parents.
