NDD in Your Classroom — A Practical Guide
You have 25 students. At least 2 or 3 of them likely have an undiagnosed neurodevelopmental difference. You weren't trained for this — and that's not your fault. But you can still make a difference. Here's how.
Universal Strategies That Help Everyone
The best part about inclusive strategies? They help ALL students, not just those with NDD.
- Use visual supports alongside verbal instructions
- Keep instructions short and clear — one step at a time
- Provide structure and predictable routines
- Allow movement breaks every 15-20 minutes
- Offer choices when possible (reduces resistance)
- Use positive reinforcement, not punishment
- Create a calm, uncluttered classroom environment
Supporting Students with Autism
- 1Use visual schedules — show what's coming next
- 2Give advance warning before transitions
- 3Allow a quiet space for when they're overwhelmed
- 4Be literal — avoid sarcasm and figurative language
- 5Respect their sensory needs (noise, light, touch)
- 6Don't force eye contact
- 7Celebrate their strengths and interests
Supporting Students with ADHD
- 1No activity phase longer than 10-12 minutes
- 2Allow fidgeting (fidget tools, standing desks)
- 3Seat them near you, away from distractions
- 4Use TPR (Total Physical Response) activities
- 5Give clear, immediate feedback
- 6Break large tasks into small, achievable steps
- 7Use timers to create urgency without pressure
Supporting Students with Dyslexia
- 1Use sans-serif fonts, minimum 14pt, 1.5 spacing
- 2Pair text with images always
- 3Allow extra time for reading and writing tasks
- 4Use colored overlays or tinted backgrounds if helpful
- 5Read instructions aloud
- 6Focus on understanding, not spelling
- 7Offer alternative ways to demonstrate learning (oral, visual)
The SEN Note — Merlaine's Signature
Every lesson plan from Maîtresse Merlaine includes a dedicated SEN/NDD adaptation section. Inclusion shouldn't be an afterthought — it should be built into every lesson from the start.
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If you're reading this, you're already doing something powerful: seeking to understand your child better. That takes courage. We're here to walk this path with you.
This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If you suspect your child may have a neurodevelopmental disorder, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.