Supporting Neurodiversity in Children & Young People

OUR Generation hosted an event on supporting neurodiversity in children & young people.

The event was held at the Duncairn Arts Centre on 13th June 2023, and was introduced by Katrina McIlmail, Design & Development Officer at Co-operation Ireland.

It began with John Clarke, founder and Director of the NI Dyslexia Centre, who described dyslexia as a ‘hidden disability’ affecting roughly 10% of the UK population.

John spoke about his experience of tutoring young children, helping parents to deal with the challenges of personal organisation common in young people, and the importance of enabling young people to realise their ambitions and reach their full potential.

Delegates then heard from Sarah Salters, Director of Northern Ireland children’s charity ADD-NI, which was set up to provide a support network for children, young people and families of those affected by Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD).

Sarah’s presentation highlighted the diagnostic criteria and the characteristics of the AD/HD types; how these behaviours manifest in ‘Girls vs Boys’, and tips on how to manage these.

Keith Anderson, Administrator at ADD-NI, then shared his personal experience of living with AD/HD, followed by a short Q&A with the audience.

Next up was Beth MacDougall, Student Recruitment Senior Associate at Ernst & Young. Beth spoke about EY’s innovative Neuro-Diverse Centre of Excellence, which helps to support neuro-diverse individuals in the workplace, through increased awareness. She also spoke of her own challenges of living with a disability, and EY’s commitment to supporting young people access meaningful employment, and build careers which empower them.

After lunch, Jude Morrow from Neurodiversity Training International took to the stage to deliver his critique of ‘autism awareness’ and the labels assigned to autistic people, with his presentation; ‘Become a Hero Youth Worker For Autistic Children’. Jude is a renowned ‘Autistic keynote storyteller, training provider and conference headliner’ and author of several books; including ‘Loving Your Place on the Spectrum: A Neurodiversity Blueprint.

For more information on upcoming events keep an eye on our events page here.