Neurodiversity and Integration: A conversation with Larry Stein
Episode description
How does neurodiversity ripple into all facets of our lives and society at large? And when we talk about neurodiversity, are we all somewhere on the spectrum or is there a “normal”? The truth is, there is no normal. And that must mean that there is no one way to learn, no one way to communicate, no one way to view or be in the world. Neurodiversity--or, the natural variance in human genomes that result in a range of neurological conditions, from ADHD and autism to dyslexia and numerous others--surely must influence more than just childhood education. In what ways does might it influence our relationships as adults? And what might trauma’s role play in neurodiversity?
This week’s guest, Larry Stein, calls those with neurological conditions “the most vulnerable of the vulnerable” and that even young children are aware of their difference from others. Together, we discuss our personal experiences with learning disabilities, how learning disabilities shape self-esteem, the extensive effort that goes into assessment and why there are no longitudinal studies being done on those living with learning disabilities, and why integration is the key.
Resources Referenced in this Episode:
Orton Gillingham Approach for reading interventions
Practice of Being Seen Episode 10: Eva Tenuto: Where Storytelling Meets Activism
Where to find Larry:
Larry’s Written Works:
Why Your Child May Need an Independent Psychoeducational Evaluation
Five Reasons Why A School District’s Evaluation of Your Child May Be Insufficient