So... What does it all mean?!
At The Nest, we believe people are more than labels. While we don’t define individuals by diagnoses, we recognize that society and systems often rely on them for understanding and access to support.Because of this, we choose to reclaim and reframe common neurodivergent terms—shifting the focus away from deficits and toward strengths, identity, and empowerment. The definitions below are offered to help families better understand neurodivergence through a respectful, strength-based lens.At The Nest, we center the person first—always.
Neurotypical:
Refers to individuals whose brain development and functioning align with what society considers typical. This is simply one way of experiencing and interacting with the world—not a benchmark or standard.
Neurodivergent:
Refers to individuals whose brains function differently from societal norms, including autism, ADHD, and more. Neurodivergence brings diverse strengths, perspectives, and ways of learning, problem-solving, and connecting with others.
01
Autism
Autism is a natural neurological variation that shapes how individuals experience the world, communicate, and connect with others. Autistic individuals often bring exceptional honesty, strong attention to detail, deep interests, loyalty, creativity, and unique ways of thinking and learning. Autism is not a deficit—it is a different way of being.
02
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental difference that affects attention, energy regulation, and executive functioning. Individuals with ADHD often demonstrate high creativity, adaptability, intuition, resilience, enthusiasm, and the ability to think quickly and outside the box. With the right support, their strengths shine powerfully.
03
AuDHD
AuDHD refers to individuals who are both autistic and have ADHD. This intersection creates a unique neurotype that combines deep focus and curiosity with creativity, spontaneity, emotional depth, and innovative thinking. AuDHD individuals often experience the world intensely and bring rich perspectives when supported in environments that honor both needs.
04
Developmental Delay
Developmental delay describes when a child reaches milestones at a different pace. It can be associated with genetic or hereditary conditions, prenatal or birth-related factors, medical conditions, or unknown causes. A developmental delay does not define a child’s potential—children grow, learn, and thrive in different ways when supported in environments that honor their strengths.
05
Intellectual Disability
An intellectual disability involves differences in cognitive processing and adaptive skills. It may be related to genetic or chromosomal conditions, hereditary factors, prenatal influences, birth complications, illness, injury, or environmental factors. Individuals with intellectual disabilities bring meaningful strengths, individuality, and the capacity for growth, connection, and contribution when supported with respect and inclusion.
