Empowering Neurodivergent Children: Unleashing the Power of their Noticer

In a world brimming with constant stimulation and distraction, teaching neurodivergent children to cultivate their Noticer is truly a gift. The Noticer is a powerful tool that supports these exceptional children in noticing their emotions, body sensations, and the incredible world around them. By nurturing this innate ability, we can empower neurodivergent children to embrace their unique journey and navigate life with confidence. Today, let's explore how we can guide these children in unlocking the full potential of their Noticer, allowing them to thrive in their richly diverse experiences.

Creating a Safe and Supportive Environment:

First and foremost, creating a safe and supportive environment is crucial when guiding neurodivergent children to harness the power of their Noticer. Fostering an atmosphere of acceptance, understanding, and compassion allows these children to feel valued and embraced for who they are and how they interpret the world around them. By providing a space where their emotions and experiences are acknowledged and celebrated, we lay the groundwork for them to develop a deep connection with their inner world and external surroundings.

Building Awareness of Emotions:

The Noticer is a remarkable ally for neurodivergent children as it helps them recognize and understand their emotions. Begin by introducing a wide range of emotions in a simple and relatable manner. Just becoming an emotive languager! Emotions are part of almost every context we enter. Make emotions and emotive language part of every day life just like a pair of shoes. Encourage open and non-judgmental conversations, allowing them to express their emotions freely however they show up AND remember they might be vastly different from yours. By validating their emotions and offering support, we enable them to build their emotional literacy, paving the way for greater self-awareness and emotional well-being.

Sensory Exploration and Noticing:

For neurodivergent children, the sensory world can be both enchanting and overwhelming. The Noticer supports them in developing a heightened awareness of their body sensations and embraces their unique sensory experiences. By building Noticer skills, we help them notice the subtle shifts within their bodies and minds in context, fostering a deeper understanding of their own sensory needs and how to meet those needs.

Encouraging Curiosity and Wonder:

One of the fundamental aspects of the Noticer is cultivating a sense of curiosity and wonder about the world that is so full of emotions and sensory experiences. For neurodivergent children, providing self-directed but supported opportunities for exploration and discovery is essential. By nurturing their innate curiosity and embracing their unique perspectives, we empower them to find their place in the vast tapestry of the world.

Embracing Uniqueness and Self-Acceptance:

The Noticer supports neurodivergent children in realizing that their experiences and perspectives are uniquely theirs. Encourage them to celebrate their individuality and recognize their strengths, interests, and talents. Celebrate their achievements, no matter how small, and offer genuine praise for their efforts. By fostering an environment that values diversity, we empower them to embrace their identity and build a strong foundation of self-acceptance, allowing them to grow into resilient individuals who can confidently navigate the world around them.

Conclusion:

The journey of teaching neurodivergent children to harness the power of their Noticer is an extraordinary and rewarding endeavor. Emotions and sensation are part of our world in everything we do. Set the stage for them to notice, are these emotions and body sensations ones that I can carry in pursuit of things I love and value, or are they too heavy and I need to find a way to get some relief? Building a strong and resilient Noticer is the foundation for self compassion and a powerful stepping stone to valued living!

PS here are some ideas!

Emotional Agility 

Emotion Wheel

Sensory Experiences