Youth Portal

Education & Learning

Comprehensive resources about neurodiversity for parents, educators, and professionals

Life Stages Timeline

Understanding Neurodiversity Across Life Stages

Support needs evolve throughout life. Here's what matters at each stage.

Early Childhood (0-5)

Key Support Needs:

  • Developmental screening and early intervention
  • Sensory-friendly environments
  • Communication support
  • Routine and predictability

Why It Matters:

Early identification allows for timely support that can significantly improve developmental outcomes.

School Age (6-12)

Key Support Needs:

  • Educational accommodations and support plans
  • Social skills development
  • Executive function coaching
  • Sensory breaks and safe spaces

Why It Matters:

School-based support helps children succeed academically and socially, building confidence and resilience.

Adolescence (13-18)

Key Support Needs:

  • Self-advocacy skills training
  • Career exploration and aptitude testing
  • Mental health support
  • Transition planning

Why It Matters:

Teen support focuses on independence and discovering strengths to guide future career paths.

Early Adulthood (19-25)

Key Support Needs:

  • Workplace accommodations guidance
  • Higher education support services
  • Life skills development
  • Peer support networks

Why It Matters:

Support at this stage helps navigate work, education, and independence with greater confidence.

Adulthood (26+)

Key Support Needs:

  • Career development and job coaching
  • Stress management and burnout prevention
  • Family and relationship support
  • Ongoing mental health services

Why It Matters:

Continued support helps maintain wellbeing, prevent burnout, and achieve long-term professional success.

Understanding Neurodiversity Across Life Stages

Support needs evolve throughout life. Understanding how neurodivergent traits present and change from early childhood through adulthood helps families, educators and professionals provide the right support at the right time.

Specialized Courses

Educational Resources & Courses

Learn about neurodiversity from experts. Choose courses tailored to your needs.

Understanding Neurodiversity
4 weeks

Learn the fundamentals of ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and dyscalculia in children.

Topics covered:

  • Brain development
  • Common traits
  • Early signs
  • Supporting your child
Managing Sensory Needs
3 weeks

Expert guidance on recognizing and responding to sensory sensitivities.

Topics covered:

  • Sensory processing
  • Creating calm spaces
  • Practical strategies
  • School collaboration
School Advocacy Essentials
5 weeks

Empower yourself to advocate effectively for your child's needs in education.

Topics covered:

  • IEP/EHCP overview
  • Your rights
  • Communication tips
  • Documentation
Emotional Regulation Support
4 weeks

Help your child develop emotional regulation and coping strategies.

Topics covered:

  • Emotional identification
  • Regulation techniques
  • Crisis management
  • Building resilience