Kara Dymond, OCT, Ph.D, is a late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD advocate, author, educator, presenter, and award-winning teacher educator from Canada. Kara is an experienced teacher whose work supporting autistic students inspired her book, The Autism Lens. At the University of Toronto, Kara researches Universal Design for Learning and teaches graduate courses on accessible and inclusive education, neurodiversity, learning differences, and mental health. She regularly presents to teachers, caregivers, and organizations on neurodiversity-affirming spaces, allyship, and accessibility needs. Kara co-hosts the Autistic Tidbits & Tangents podcast with Canadian autistic advocate Bruce Petherick and Maja Toudal, an autistic psychologist from Denmark.
Description
The world expects the impossible from teachers, with so many young people in our care - all with unique needs. How do we help everyone to thrive? Imagine a classroom where there is no 'normal' - where all brains are expected and welcomed. Students are taught about neurodiversity, metacognition, and self-advocacy alongside the curriculum and are encouraged to identify their own needs. Learning tools are taught and available to everyone! This thoughtful guide breaks down the learning process. It's brimming with practical tips, brain-based strategies, and illustrative examples that teachers can implement in the classroom. Stories of real teachers and neurodivergent students help educators envision how to apply neurodiversity-affirming approaches. This book invites a compassionate lens for teachers and students alike. It's the how-to of forging partnerships with students - our best resources in collaboratively problem-solving pressing classroom concerns and invisible learning needs. Everyone benefits when we plan with accessibility in mind!