Issue link: https://fredparent.uberflip.com/i/1480997
www.FredericksburgParent.NET 17 Episodes examine neurodiversity issues through conversa- tions with experts, viewer Q&As and interviews with suc- cessful adults who overcame learning differences. Families of neurodivergent children can use programs and resources like "A World of Difference" to encourage embracing differences, support needs and prepare our children to become successful adults. "This partnership opens the door for important conversa- tions about neurodiversity in our homes, community, and beyond," said Darryl E. Owens, creator and host of "A World of Difference" and Beacon College's associate vice president of communications and engagement. "Having our program on WUCF's airwaves will bring greater visibil- ity to issues neurodivergent individuals face and allow us to conduct an open dialogue about topics that are not talked about enough, or sometimes even unac- knowledged." "A World of Difference" currently covers topics and showcases real people living through example. Neurodivergent families can learn more about the Americans with Disabilities Act, workforce diversity, helping students succeed, boost- ing self-esteem, empowerment and friendship. The show is a resource to help neu- rodivergent families feel less alone and find comfort through others who may have similar experiences. In addition to Holderness, the program showcases other neuro- diverse social media influencers who express their uniqueness, embrace their differences and talk about their successes. Anouk Vitte, an Instagram influencer, states, "By sharing my drawings through social media, I hope to be able to create a space where people like me can feel alone. Where we can find community and connect through experiences." Australian sociologist Judy Singer, who coined the phrase neu- rodiversity in the 1990s, proposes that we are all neurodiverse because no two humans on the planet are the same. Brain development and thought processes are different for everyone. Making the case that we, as parents and a society, should learn to embrace diversity and individualism. "Neurodivergence is not something you should be ashamed of and something you should hide from," explains Holderness. "It is something that if you understand and are open about it and tell your loved ones about it, the amount of grace that they will give you and patience is more limitless than you think." Some ways you can aid neurodivergent individuals include showing patience and understanding, and closely listening to your child for cues. Learn which communica- tion style is best for your child. Encourage them to try new things and watch to see how your child reacts and processes. Avoid labeling. Show respect for all people and normalize differences. Full of positivity and embracing his differences, Holderness states, "If you can see someone who's using [neurodivergence] positively for their job and putting this content out, then hopefully it gives people a little bit of hope that they can do that too if they find kind of where to implement their superpower." "A World of Difference" can be viewed online or streamed through the PBS video app. Neurodivergent children have interesting ways of navigating through the world. They see life through a slightly different lens and can need a bit more time to process. A study by the National Library of Medicine, states that up to 15-20% of people have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia or another learning disability. According to Neurodiversity Hub, which connects individuals, parents, educators and employers, around 1 in 5 people are neurodivergent. Contestants from Season 33 of the CBS series THE AMAZING RACE, scheduled to air on the CBS Television Network. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2020 CBS Broadcas ng, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Photo from www.theholdernessfamily.com