Celebrating Different Minds: Neurodiversity Week 2026 in Adoption Now

Neurodiversity simply means that people’s brains work differently. Some children may process information differently, some may experience the world more intensely or communicate in their own ways. In adoption, recognising and celebrating these differences is an important step in ensuring children feel seen, understood and supported in their families.

In our latest podcast I spoke to Alison Saunders, a member of our Care Planning and Family Finding team at Adoption Now, who works directly with children as they prepare for adoption and helps families understand their unique needs and strengths.
“Being neurodiverse means people’s brains function in different ways rather than a typical pattern,” Alison explains.

Seeing the child

Children waiting for adoption may have experienced trauma, uncertainty and immense change early in life. Some may also be neurodivergent; meaning they think, learn or look at the world differently.

For Alison, the key is always to look beyond labels and focus on the individual child as in adoption, it’s important to remember that behaviour is often communication.

“Some children can communicate through behaviours. Whether it's good, bad or indifferent, it's just really difficult and (you have to) go on that journey with them. Let them teach you.”

Understanding the whole picture

For children in care, experiences of trauma can sometimes overlap with or look similar to neurodivergent traits. That’s why taking time to understand each child’s story is so important.

Alison describes it as piecing together a puzzle. “It's getting that puzzle together. I'll take all the pieces away and then slowly, slowly put them back together. And what I have found, I've been able to get some support for some of these children [by pointing out], ‘actually, this isn't trauma with this child’. It's either been autism or FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder).”

This careful approach helps ensure children receive the right support — without rushing to label them.

The strengths of different minds

One of the biggest misconceptions about neurodivergent children is that the focus often falls only on difficulties.

But Alison is passionate about recognising the many strengths that come with different ways of thinking.

“Neurodivergent brains often come with remarkable strength, like enhancing creativity, pattern recognition and solving unique problems”

Many neurodivergent children are deeply perceptive, emotionally aware and wonderfully authentic.

“They know when you're not interested” Alison says, “they can see right through people.” 

Adoption is about connection

Adoption is about building relationships, patience and understanding; something that benefits every child, neurodivergent or not.

Adopters are supported throughout their journey with training, therapeutic support and opportunities to connect with other families. Groups like Adoption Now’s nurture group sessions help families share experiences, learn from one another and build a supportive community.

“It takes a village to raise children,” Alison says. “(having) that network and support around you it makes life so much easier”

For prospective adopters who may feel unsure about parenting a neurodivergent child, Alison offers reassurance.

“You know we’re all learning…don’t be afraid…the support's there”

Celebrating difference

Neurodiversity Week is an opportunity to reflect on how we see and support children — particularly those waiting for adoption.

For Alison, the message is simple: celebrate difference. All children deserve a family where they are understood and accepted for who they are.

At Adoption Now, we believe every child deserves to grow up in a home where their individuality is recognised and valued, and we equally celebrate individuality in those seeking adopt.

Because different minds make the world richer

Listen to the full interview with Alison.