Neurodiversity in children: Accommodate or celebrate?

Abstract

Neurodiversity, a term increasingly used to describe a range of neurological differences, is more prevalent than we might think. Conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and Tourette's syndrome, once loosely considered forms of “mental illness,” are now understood as part of the diverse neurological landscape. In the United States, the overall prevalence rate of neurodiversity in children is often reported at about 20%. Recent estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2022) suggest that approximately one in 36 children in the United States are identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Further estimates suggest that 5–10% of children experience attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), 2–6% experience Tourette's syndrome, and 1–3% experience other neurodevelopmental disorders. These numbers underscore the importance of understanding neurodiversity in our communities.