October is a significant month for raising awareness and celebrating neurodiversity. It’s a time to promote inclusivity, challenge stigmas, and advocate for the acceptance of individuals who think, learn, and experience the world differently. While neurodiversity covers a broad spectrum of conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more, October is filled with key observances that recognize the strengths and challenges of these diverse minds.
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a behavior profile within the autism spectrum characterized by an extreme avoidance of everyday demands and expectations, often driven by high levels of anxiety. Despite growing recognition of PDA, particularly in the UK, it is not formally recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), which is the leading diagnostic tool used by mental health professionals globally.
Kiwanis Malaysia Academy (KMA) Special Education Needs (SEN) Symposium is back this year for its fourth installation on 16 Nov 2024 at the Royale Chulan Damansara Hotel! This time, it is being held back-to-back with a training and workshop for stakeholders, on 17 November 2024 at Segi College Kota Damansara. The theme in 2024 is Enriching the Lives of The Neurodivergent Community with a focus on meaningful employment for the neurodivergent community.
For individuals with sensory processing challenges, particularly those with autism, finding effective ways to manage sensory input can be crucial. One powerful tool in the sensory integration toolkit is bouncing on a trampoline or gym ball. This simple activity offers a multitude of benefits that can help regulate sensory input, improve motor skills, and promote overall well-being.
Twice exceptional (often abbreviated as 2e) refers to individuals who possess high abilities or giftedness in one or more areas while simultaneously facing challenges or disabilities in other areas. These individuals exhibit a unique blend of strengths and weaknesses, making their identification and support more complex compared to their peers who are either gifted or have disabilities but not both.
The field of education is continually evolving, driven by the need to accommodate diverse learning styles and capabilities. For autistic students, traditional educational approaches often fall short in addressing their unique challenges and strengths. However, the advent of assistive teaching and learning tools has transformed educational landscapes, making learning more accessible and effective for autistic individuals.
Sleep is a fundamental aspect of human health, influencing physical, mental, and emotional well-being. For neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and other neurological conditions, achieving quality sleep can be particularly challenging. However, understanding the unique sleep patterns and needs of neurodivergent individuals is essential for promoting overall health, improving cognitive function, and enhancing quality of life.
In celebration of their 10th Anniversary, Oasis Place took their annual "Through the Heart" initiative to the next level on a much larger and more public scale. They organised a 3-day Empowerfest from 10-12 May 2024 at the main concourse of the Avenue K Mall in Kuala Lumpur. From 10 am to 10 pm daily, they had vendors showcasing products and services for neurodivergent individuals.
Communication is a fundamental aspect of human interaction, shaping how we connect, understand, and relate to one another. When engaging with individuals who are disabled, whether physically, mentally, or neurologically, the language we use plays a pivotal role in fostering respect, dignity, and inclusivity. However, navigating this terrain can sometimes feel like walking on eggshells, as societal norms and language evolve. Understanding how to communicate respectfully is essential for promoting empathy, understanding, and equality. Here's a guide on how to be respectful in language use when interacting with people who are disabled.
Communication is the bedrock of human interaction, yet for individuals on the autism spectrum, expressing oneself can be a challenging journey. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) methods offer a lifeline, providing diverse tools and strategies to bridge the gap between silence and expression. For those with autism, AAC isn't just a means of communication; it's a pathway to empowerment, independence, and inclusion.