Exploring Neurodiversity with Adina Levy from Play. Learn. Chat

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Show notes: 

In this episode, I chat with the amazing Hat, also known as Harriet Richardson, a significant voice in the neurodivergent community. Hat not only is an autistic ADHDer but also shines in her roles as a speech and language therapist, blogger, and public speaker. We discuss AAC, Internallised Ableism, Joy of claiming ND identity, mental health, consent for goals, and her beautiful dog Meeno.

Watch this chat on Youtube: https://youtu.be/G2QpnnR2GJ4

LINKS:

Hat’s Website: www.hattalks.uk

Hat on IG: https://www.instagram.com/hat.talks.uk/ 

Hat's Etsy shop with resources including her communication cards: https://www.etsy.com/shop/hattalks/?etsrc=sdt

Podcast Link: https://pod.link/1625478932

Website: www.playlearnchat.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/play.learn.chat

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/play.learn.chat

1. Accept all forms of communication as valid - actions, gestures, sounds, signs, AAC, visuals
2. Plan sessions around using child’s interests and motivating topics as the main activities
3. Join the child (sometimes), playing in their way. Or let them play in their way solo
4. Support the child to listen and attend to others in their own way
5. Observe & use the child’s sensory preferences to build engagement and support their participation at all times
6. Assess children using holistic tools and qualitative approaches that consider child & family perspectives & quality of life
7. Set collaborative goals that are for the child’s benefit - leading to wellbeing and connectedness
8. Set collaborative goals that are about changing the world around the child (other people, environments, expectations) to be most supportive

• her journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance
• the impact of masking on mental health and well-being
• the need for systemic change and neurodiversity affirming practices to create an inclusive and supportive environment for neurodivergent people
• moving away from behaviourism
• understanding the intergenerational nature of parenting and education
• promoting empathy, acceptance, and a broader version of social norms
• holistic ways to support neurodivergent children
• the need for self-care and finding personal joy in life.

1. Build relationships - connection over compliance
2. Regulate yourself
3. Find their ways of learning
4. Educate in their way
5. Understand their barriers - get curious
6. Go slooooow
7. Know when to walk away