Neurodiversity in the Classroom

<p>A new concept on human diversity has emerged over the past 10 years that promises to revolutionize the way educators provide services to students with special needs: neurodiversity. Just as we celebrate diversity in nature and cultures so too do we need to honor the diversity of brains among our students who learn think and behave differently. In <em>Neurodiversity in the Classroom</em> best-selling author Thomas Armstrong argues that we should embrace the <em>strengths</em> of such neurodiverse students to help them and their neurotypical peers thrive in school and beyond.</p><p>This innovative book focuses on five categories of special needs: learning disabilities attention deficit hyperactivity disorder autism intellectual disabilities and emotional and behavioral disorders. For each category Armstrong provides an in-depth discussion of</p><p><br />* The positive attributes associated with that category<br /><br />* Acclaimed neurodiverse adults who have excelled in their chosen fields<br /><br />* Computer programs and applications that allow students with special needs to overcome obstacles and achieve success<br /><br />* Rich networks of human resources both inside and outside of school that educators can draw upon to support the social and emotional lives of neurodiverse students<br /><br />* Innovative learning strategies that are tailored to each student's unique strengths<br /><br />* Future career paths for which a student's particular gifts might be a good fit<br /><br />* Modifications in the school environment that allow for seamless inclusion of neurodiverse students in the regular classroom and<br /><br />* Timely information about how to integrate the strategies and assessments for each category with the Common Core State Standards.</p><p>It's time that we focused on celebrating rather than pathologizing our students with special needs so that they can fully realize their potential in school and life. This practical and thought-provoking book will inspire teachers and administrators everywhere to make sure that all students with special needs get the support and strength-based instruction they deserve.</p>