What is Neurodivergence?
Neurodivergence is not a disability or a mental illness. It is a natural variation in brain function that can result in unique strengths and perspectives. Neurodivergent people may have different ways of thinking, learning, and experiencing the world, which can contribute to diversity and innovation. However, neurodivergent individuals may also experience challenges in areas such as social interaction, communication, sensory processing, and cognitive and/or motor skills.
Some people may identify as neurodivergent if they have a diagnosed condition, while others may use the term more broadly to describe any brain differences that set them apart from the “typical” experience. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Dyslexia, and other learning disabilities all fall into the category of neurodivergence.
Neurodivergence and Children
Children experiencing neurodivergence may struggle in a typical classroom setting which can have academic or behavioral impacts. In some cases, children learn to “mask” or hide the struggle they experience at school, but behavioral issues are then displayed at home or in a child care setting—a result of holding in the needs not met in a typical classroom. If your child is experiencing academic, social-emotional, or behavioral challenges at school, they may qualify for accommodations through either an Individualized Education Plan or a Section 504 Plan. These plans provide support to your child allowing them to more fully access the benefits of their education.
Classroom accommodations work to offset the needs of the neurodivergent child. Accommodations may include (but are not limited to): Extended time on tests, preferential seating, assistive technology, or modifications to assignments or grading.
Academic Support is Available
If academic success is adversely impacted if academic success is adversely impacted, your child may qualify for an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). To obtain an IEP, your child must first be evaluated. Your school district has an obligation to “identify, locate and evaluate” all children with disabilities who may be eligible for special education, including those who are attending private schools or are homeless or wards of the court. More information on advocating for an assessment can be found here.
If a child does not meet the criteria for an Individualized Education Plan, but is still in need of classroom accommodations, a Section 504 Plan can be requested to meet these needs. To request an evaluation or begin the process of requesting a Section 504 Plan, contact the district special education director/coordinator for your school district and tell them that you are concerned about your child’s educational progress. The links below will bring you to the contact pages for some local school districts. Children who are homeschooled or are attending private school have the right to be assessed, if needed, within their local school district.
| School District | Link to Special Education Contact Page |
| Center Joint Unified | https://www.centerusd.org/Departments/Special-Education/index.html |
| Dry Creek Joint Unified | https://www.drycreek.k12.ca.us/departments/special-education |
| Elk Grove Unified | https://sites.google.com/egusd.net/egusd-special-education/communication-and-contacts |
| Folsom Cordova Unified | https://www.fcusd.org/educational-services/special-education |
| Natomas Unified | https://www.natomasunified.org/departments/student-services-and-support/special-education |
| Roseville City | https://www.rcsdk8.org/educational-support-services |
| Sacramento City Unified | https://www.scusd.edu/special-education-department-staff |
| San Juan Unified | https://www.sanjuan.edu/academics/special-education/communication-contacts |
| Twin Rivers Unified | https://www.trusd.net/Academics/Programs/Special-Education/index.html |
| Washington Unified | https://www.wusd.k12.ca.us/Departments/Educational-Services/Special-Services/index.html |
Child Action, Inc. Can Help
At Child Action, Inc., we understand that every child is unique. We offer enhanced child care referrals tailored to your child’s specific needs, including those related to neurodivergence. Our knowledgeable staff is here to support you in finding care environments that are nurturing, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate.
Email: info@childaction.org
Call: (916) 369-0191
Additional information can be found in the articles below:
Differences in IEP and 504 plans
https://www.understood.org/en/articles/the-difference-between-ieps-and-504-plans
https://www.understood.org/en/articles/conditions-covered-under-idea
IEPs: What are the 13 disability categories to qualify?
https://www.understood.org/en/articles/conditions-covered-under-idea
Community Resources
Alta California Regional Center https://www.altaregional.org/
CA Autism Professional Training and Info Network https://www.captain.ca.gov/
CA Dept of Education https://www.cde.ca.gov/
MIND Institute https://health.ucdavis.edu/mind-institute/
Sac County Office of Education https://www.scoe.net/
Warmline Family Resource Center https://warmlinefrc.org/