Language is powerful. It shapes the way we think, influences the way we treat others, and, most importantly, plays a pivotal role in how people see themselves.
When it comes to talking about neurodiversity, the words we choose can either reinforce stigma or create space for dignity, understanding, and inclusion.
That’s where neuro-affirming language comes in.
What Is Neuro-Affirming Language?
Neuro-affirming language is a respectful and strengths-based way of communicating about neurodivergent individuals. Rather than framing neurodivergence as something “wrong” or needing to be “fixed,” neuro-affirming language acknowledges and values the diverse ways people think, learn, and experience the world. It seeks to validate lived experiences and challenge outdated ideas that still shape many of our systems and interactions today.
Why It’s Important
While many of us grew up with language that pathologised difference — describing people as “suffering from” a diagnosis or contrasting them with “normal” peers — that kind of framing can cause real harm.
It reinforces the idea that neurodivergent people are broken or “less than.” It also shapes the expectations of parents, educators, healthcare professionals, and peers, often without us even realising it.
Updating our language is one way we can help reduce stigma and promote more compassionate, inclusive environments for everyone.
What To Say Instead
Small shifts in language can have a significant impact. Here are a few examples of how to approach everyday conversations more affirmatively:
- Instead of “normal child,” say “neurotypical child.”
- Instead of “suffers from autism,” say “autistic person” (or use the individual’s preferred language)
- Instead of “has challenging behaviours,” describe the need or experience, e.g. “is experiencing emotional dysregulation” or “has unmet sensory needs.”
- Instead of “special needs,” use “access needs” or “support needs.”
- Instead of “non-verbal,” say “non-speaking.”
These changes may seem small, but over time, they help reshape our assumptions, moving us toward greater empathy and inclusion.
For more practical swaps and examples, The Giggle Garden has created a free Neuro-Affirming Language Guide. It’s designed to support parents, educators, therapists, and allies in creating more affirming spaces for neurodivergent children and adults alike.
It’s Okay To Evolve
Many of us grew up hearing and using language that we wouldn’t feel comfortable saying today. That doesn’t make us bad people, but it does mean we have an opportunity to grow.
When we know better, we do better. Being open to feedback, asking questions, and making adjustments are all part of that process.
Neurodivergent people don’t need us to be perfect; they need us to be curious, respectful, and willing to learn.
Final Thoughts
Neuro-affirming language is more than a list of preferred terms. It’s a reflection of deeper values: respect, inclusion, and a recognition that every brain is valid and worthy of support.
By shifting the way we speak, we can help shift the way society understands and embraces neurodiversity — one conversation at a time.
When we choose better words, we build better worlds.
