Neurodiversity-Affirmative Parenting (NAP) Network
Overview
Neurodiversity-Affirmative Parenting (NAP) Network at the University of Warwick is dedicated to advancing neuro-affirmative knowledge, policy and practice. We hope to bring together a network of parents of neurodivergent youth, people with a lived experience of neurodiversity, and experts in education, healthcare and parenting studies to better understand parents’ needs, share best practice and co-produce practical resources to promote education, mental health and employment skills in neurodivergent youth. Most importantly, we hope to raise awareness about the societal barriers parents and neurodivergent young people face in their daily lives. Through events, workshops and regular network updates we hope to drive systemic changes in services and support for people who are neurodevelopmentally different across the Midlands and more widely. The NAP Network is an online platform for parents of neurodivergent youth, practitioners and researchers to connect, exchange ideas and co-produce neuro-affirmative practices that foster inclusive and adaptable environments where everyone can thrive.
The NAP network was started by Dr Dimitra HartasLink opens in a new window from Education Studies (SELCS) and Dr Hayley CrawfordLink opens in a new window from Warwick Medical School, with external partners Dr Karen Neil and Dr Michael Watson from the Institute of Education and Health Promotion (IEHP). Funding support is provided from the Institute of Advanced Studies at the University of Warwick.
Core Principles
Traditional narratives about autism and ADHD as neurological pathologies have shifted over the years, moving towards valuing diverse cognitive, linguistic and learning styles and advocating for societal changes to accommodate neurological differences. These changes are driven by the neurodiversity paradigm which recognises types of neurodivergence as natural variations of the human experience rather than deficits to be fixed. This perspective has promoted the use of identity-first rather than person-first language (e.g., autistic people instead of people with autism- unless a person-first language is preferred) to show that neurodivergence is an inherent, intricate part of people’s experience and not something they ‘have’.
NAP has adopted the core principles as presented in the National Autistic Society (https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/professional-practice/embracing-neurodiversity-affirmative-practiceLink opens in a new window).
Reframe neurodiversity
such as Autism, ADHD, dyslexia, etc. as neurological differences and not disorders, as natural variations of the human experience, not pathologies to be “fixed”.
Place neurodiversity
within disability rights and social justice movements, encouraging autonomy, self-advocacy, and self-acceptance to ensure dignity and equality.
Respect identity and agency
in supporting neurodivergent people to embracing their authentic selves rather than conforming to neuro-normative standards, centering their voices and lived experiences in decision-making.
Challenge systemic barriers and create inclusive environments
for neurodivergent people to thrive through validation (affirming neurodivergent experiences without judgment); strengths-based approach (focusing on abilities, creativity, and unique perspectives rather than deficits); adaptation over assimilation (changing the environment instead of forcing individuals to adapt); flexibility (recognising diverse communication styles, sensory needs, and processing differences); and intersectionality (understanding that neurodivergence intersects with other identities, i.e., race, gender, sexuality, disability).
Contact us
If you would like to become a network member or have any questions, please contact Dr Dimitra Hartas at d.hartas@warwick.ac.ukLink opens in a new window or Dr Hayley Crawford at Hayley.Crawford@warwick.ac.ukLink opens in a new window.