EVERYONE is unique and it’s natural for our brains to have differences - this can be known as neurodiversity.

Learning Disability Week is from June 17-23 and the NSPCC wants to highlight that we are here for all children and young people who may be struggling with their neurodiversity.

The aim of Learning Disability Week is to make sure the world understands what life is like for you, or someone you know, that has a learning disability. Some people who have special education needs and disabilities (SEND) may experience difficulties with things like reading, working with numbers or maintaining attention and this can vary from mild to more severe symptoms. Children and young people deserve all the support they need at school, at home and out in public and that is why it’s so important we all have an understanding of what neurodivergence is and how we can support them.

Mencap, which organises the week, is focusing on the theme ‘Do you see me?’ this year. It’s all about challenging the barriers faced and celebrating the amazing things people with a learning disability bring to society.

The NSPCC and Childline have resources to support children with special educational needs, helping them feel seen, heard and valued. We can also offer advice to parents, carers or professionals too.

If your child has a learning difficulty or you think they might, it’s vital that their school and teachers are aware so they can find ways of supporting their schoolwork, such as offering extra tuition or more time to complete work. They can help a child identify their strengths to aid with their learning. They may be able to carry out an assessment to give an indication of whether a child has dyslexia. The British Dyslexia Association gives further advice and information at bdadyslexia.org.uk.

At home, it’s important that children with SEND can speak freely, without judgement, about their worries. This will give you a better understanding of their needs, which may change over time. Being assertive can help children and young people to explain how they feel and what they need. The Childline website has advice on being assertive. For younger children, the NSPCC’s Talk PANTS and Speak out, Stay safe programmes teach in an age-appropriate way to spot signs of abuse, identify a trusted adult and speak out if anything concerns them. Aimed at primary school children, they’re adapted for children with SEND, with Talk PANTS also available for those using Makaton.

The Childline website also supports children who are deaf and blind, have autism, ADHD and dyslexia. Visit childline.org.uk.