Do Your Homework:Our Top Reads on Neurodiversity
Barbara Farland • October 23, 2024
Do Your Homework: Our Top Reads on Neurodiversity
There’s still that back-to-school spirit in the air for kids and parents alike. But “homework” isn’t just for our children. While they are becoming more and more immersed in coursework and assignments, we can also invest some of our time into studying neurodiversity, what it is, how it affects our families, and where we can try some new and better strategies for daily life together.

With all of the resources on the market these days, where do we start? Consider adding these popular, critically-acclaimed reads to your bookshelf to better understand and manage the individual and systemic effects of ADHD, autism, and other diagnoses related to neurodiversity.
It’s clear there’s a stigma attached to autism, ADHD, and other forms of neurodiversity. Society is much more likely to deem them as disabilities stemming from physical and environmental problems than “the result of natural variations in the human genome.” In his book Neurotribes, journalist Steve Silberman focuses on the latter and creates an expertly woven tapestry of history, anecdotes, and data to reveal errant mindsets and to provide direction for change.
Neurodiversity gets especially tricky when it negatively affects people’s daily interactions with the world around them. But social worker Máire Powell addresses this topic of executive functioning with both honesty and encouragement in her book Executive Functioning Superpowers. At the heart of Powell’s perspective and related advice is knowing just how much parents care for the current and future well-being of their children. In turn, she often reminds readers of why the strategies she suggests are well worth the time and effort.
Like Powell’s Executive Functioning Superpowers, Dawson and Guare’s Smart but Scattered is full of insights and suggestions on how to capitalize on strengths and overcome weaknesses as they relate to how different brains work. The book is based on two premises: 1) “Most individuals have an array of executive skill strengths as well as executive skill challenges,” and 2) “Identifying areas of challenge enables us to design and implement interventions to address those areas.” In other words, awareness and close observation inform successful solutions.
Thinking in Pictures: My Life with Autism by Temple Grandin
When the movie Temple Grandin was released in 2010, society gained a better understanding of the internal world of those with autism. The movie was based in part on Grandin’s memoir Thinking in Pictures, which offers insight into her more visual-versus-verbal way of processing the world. In her book, Grandin is forthcoming in sharing her personal perspective and experiences as a person with autism, while also offering rich scientific background given her work as an Animal Science professor.
ADHD is Awesome: A Guide to Mostly Thriving with ADHD by Penn and Kim Holderness
Penn and Kim Holderness are probably best known for their online video and song parodies on everything from the popularity of cauliflower to common everyday problems like losing our cell phones and getting the kids to school. However, in addition to entertaining their thousands of followers, they are now sharing their personal experiences around ADHD—Penn lives with it— and trying to change the script on how the public views and talks about it. ADHD is Awesome is an accessible, light-hearted yet thought-provoking read featuring three sections: 1) “Getting to Know ADHD,” 2) “Changing the Narrative,” and 3) “Thriving with ADHD.”
BONUS: ADDitude recently hosted a free webinar with the Holdernesses, who presented “We Define ADHD! Empowering Ways to Frame Our Awesome Brains.” Watch the replay>>
Barbara Farland is an English & Social Studies instructor at Brightmont Academy in Plymouth, Minn. She holds a master’s degree in Business Communication from the University of St. Thomas and, prior to pursuing a second career in education, worked as an award-winning public relations and communications professional in both the corporate and nonprofit sectors. As a “storyteller by nature and teacher at heart,” Barbara continues to contribute to various anthologies, among other writing projects.
More Blog Posts + News
Private School in Phoenix Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Phoenix, AZ — As several schools across Arizona close, students face significant academic and personal challenges. Research shows that school closures during a child’s K-12 education often lead to declines in test scores, attendance issues, and behavioral disruptions. Long-term effects can include lower college completion rates and reduced employment opportunities. In response, Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, provides a stable and supportive learning environment, ensuring students have access to uninterrupted, high-quality education. Beyond academics, school closures impact students’ emotional and social development. “School closures disrupt not only academic progress but also students' social-emotional well-being,” said Shari Guerra, Campus Director of Brightmont’s newest Phoenix location off the 101 Freeway and McDowell. “For many, the relationships built within their school community are a foundation for their confidence, personal growth, and future aspirations. When these institutions suddenly become unstable or disappear altogether, families are forced to make difficult decisions with limited time and resources.” As Arizona communities navigate these closures, families seek educational solutions that provide continuity and support. Brightmont’s flexible, one-to-one instruction model ensures students stay engaged and on track. “The chaos surrounding school closures underscores the importance of flexible and innovative education models,” Guerra said. “Families should have access to options that ensure students remain engaged and academically on track, regardless of external disruptions. Brightmont Academy is a beacon of stability, offering a structured yet adaptable learning environment where students receive dedicated attention from expert educators.” Prioritizing students' academic and emotional well-being is at the core of Brightmont’s mission. “Students must remain at the heart of every educational decision made during these challenging times,” said Guerra. “Our mission is to support families and ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed in a safe and nurturing learning environment.” Brightmont Academy is located at 1850 N. 95th Ave. Suite 180 in Phoenix and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, May 15th, 2025, between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students National — 93% of Brightmont Academy students say Brightmont helped them achieve their academic goals, a testament to the school’s personalized one-to-one instruction. With a 25-year legacy of academic excellence, Brightmont, a nationally accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, has empowered students to achieve success through individualized learning. This unique approach prepares students academically and instills the confidence and self-advocacy skills necessary to navigate the college admissions process successfully. As students receive their college acceptance letters, Brightmont reflects on the profound impact of its one-to-one instruction. “We know we can prepare our students with very strong courses, so their transcripts look great,” said Karen Buckner, CEO of Brightmont. “They also can tell a different story about what they've learned by having such great one-on-one interactions with their teachers—how they've been able to learn, advocate for themselves, and gain a deeper understanding of their strengths.” This year’s list of college acceptances shows the diverse opportunities available to Brightmont graduates. From state universities to prestigious private institutions, Brightmont students are earning spots at top schools across the country. The new college acceptance map highlights this success, demonstrating that Brightmont students stand out in the competitive admissions process. “If colleges take the time to truly look at their students, we're going to stand out,” Buckner continued. “I think that's a direct result of what we're seeing in this new college map we have with all these great colleges on there.” For many students, Brightmont is more than just a school, it’s a place where they rediscover their confidence and realize that higher education is within reach. Through personalized instruction and supportive learning environments, these students have gained the skills and self-assurance needed to take the next step in their education by applying to colleges and pursuing their academic aspirations. “There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a student build their self-esteem through academics and their Brightmont experience,” Buckner added. “The part we play in helping them grow and then having a third party validate that through a college acceptance is just super exciting.” Brightmont Academy is located in eight states and is currently accepting enrollments. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
The Importance of Prioritizing Engagement Over Compliance
Private School in Mendota Heights Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Mendota Heights, MN — Between 32% and 35% of teens with ADHD will drop out of school before graduation, a stark statistic that highlights the challenges these students face in traditional learning environments. Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school, offers a proven alternative: a one-to-one instructional model tailored to each student's learning needs, helping them build confidence and excel academically. Brightmont creates a structured yet adaptable environment that minimizes distractions and fosters engagement, providing students with the tools they need to succeed. This method is especially beneficial for students with ADHD, who often struggle with traditional classroom settings and benefit from customized learning experiences. "Brightmont’s one-to-one instructional model is designed to reduce distractions and meet each student’s unique needs," says Michelle Platt, Campus Director of Brightmont Mendota Heights. "Our teachers form strong bonds with their students and make accommodations throughout the day to strengthen their learning, whether it’s providing short breaks, using text-to-speech tools, offering audiobooks, or creating quiet spaces.” Brightmont also prioritizes collaboration with parents to develop personalized education plans. "I reassure parents that our teachers have extensive experience working with children with various learning differences, including those diagnosed with ADHD," explains Platt. "In our first meeting, we discuss academic goals and how Brightmont can help achieve them. As a campus director, I collaborate with our academic team and teachers to create an optimized schedule, curriculum, course load, pacing, and roadmap customized to each student’s goals and needs." The positive impact of Brightmont is evident not just in academic success but also in students’ enthusiasm for learning. "I measure success by the happiness of our students, and the gratitude of the families," says Platt. "Many of these students felt misunderstood, inadequate, or avoided school in the past. These same kids come to school excited, feel cared for, and safe. So many of my students tell me the same thing, ‘I like it here.’” Brightmont Academy is located at 720 Main Street, Suite 101 in Mendota Heights, and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, April 17th, 2025, between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
I work with a lot of students who have ADHD and struggle with focus and writing. Although many see this as a detriment and try to slow them down, trying to force an ADHD brain to operate like a neurotypical brain can be frustrating and demotivating for the student. However, I find their ability to hyper-process a strength and appreciate their ability to take in so much stimulation, even if it causes them fatigue. Helping them to embrace how their brain functions and use that to their advantage will help them adapt and find ways to harness the power that they have. Below are some tips on how to support students with ADHD in their learning. Imagine that an ADHD brain is like a hurricane machine, constantly swirling thoughts, ideas, distractions, and emotions. The winds are powerful, and the storm is unpredictable. One moment, you’re focused on a task, and the next, you’re swept away by a new thought or feeling, leaving you feeling lost in the storm. However, if you could adapt the hurricane machine, you could use it to help manage the whirlwind of energy. Here’s how: 1. Focus Zones (Creating and accessing the “Calm Eye”) An ADHD brain is constantly swirling with and processing ideas, sounds, feelings, and energy, and at the center of the storm, there’s a “calm eye”—a place where focus can be found. To create this calm space, students can use techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing, or a dedicated quiet space. Rather than forcing the storm to stop, these techniques help students center themselves within it, finding focus even amid the chaos. This is about creating pockets of calm where they can refocus, even as the storm continues to rage around them.
Private School in Atlanta Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Atlanta, GA — With 52% of parents now seeking a more personalized and flexible education for their children, many are looking for options that cater to their individual learning needs. Recognizing this growing demand, Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, offers rolling admissions, enabling students to enroll at any time throughout the year. Unlike traditional schools with set application deadlines, Brightmont Academy provides families with the flexibility to start when they are ready. “Rolling admissions is the process where a school accepts applications and enrolls students continuously throughout the year, rather than having a set application deadline,” explains Robyn Brunson, Campus Director of Brightmont Academy’s Atlanta location. This flexible approach ensures that students do not have to wait months to begin their education. “Rolling admissions gives parents the flexibility to enroll their child at Brightmont at any time,” Brunson continues. “Since we offer rolling admissions, enrollment decisions are made quickly, so parents don’t have to wait months for their child to start school. Once the enrollment process is complete, a student can begin classes right away. This allows families to start as soon as they’re ready.” Enrolling mid-semester can also be beneficial for students who need a personalized approach to learning. Brightmont Academy’s one-to-one instruction model allows students to progress at their own pace and receive tailored support from experienced educators. “Starting mid-semester can actually be a great opportunity for your child because we can meet them where they are right now and adjust the pace of our classes to fit their needs,” says Brunson. “Additionally, I will work closely with you to ensure the transition is as smooth as possible, from offering flexible schedules to scheduling parent check-ins to discuss your child's progression.” Whether transitioning from a traditional school setting, seeking a fresh start, or needing a customized academic plan, Brightmont Academy is ready to support students at any point in the year. Brightmont Academy is located at 1161 Concord Rd SE Suite 100 in Atlanta and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, April 17th, 2025, between 10:00 AM and 3:30 PM. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
When You Need a Tutor: Competence Is Key
Private School in Naperville Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Naperville, IL — Socialization is essential for student growth, fostering communication, empathy, and teamwork. Engaging with peers broadens perspectives, strengthens emotional intelligence, and builds real-world skills. Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, values both academic success and social development. At the Naperville campus, students form meaningful connections while excelling academically. Brightmont Naperville understands that a strong sense of community enhances student success. “At Brightmont, building a strong school community and fostering meaningful relationships are at the heart of what we do,” said Lindsay Morales, Campus Director of Brightmont Naperville. “While our one-to-one model supports students academically and improves school engagement, we recognize the importance of socialization and peer connections.” To cultivate a sense of belonging, Brightmont Naperville offers a variety of social opportunities. “We offer weekly clubs, spirit weeks, holiday events, and family nights, as well as school challenges and collaborative activities during Homework Studio time,” Morales explained. “Lunchtime and the brief time between classes on campus are also lively and social periods where students naturally interact. These opportunities not only encourage friendships among same-age peers but also allow for meaningful interactions across age groups, with older students often stepping into mentorship roles. Our goal is to provide structured, supportive social environments where students can build relationships, develop confidence, and feel a sense of belonging.” Morales also encourages families to consider their child’s unique needs when evaluating social opportunities. “I encourage families to think about their priorities in the current moment. If Brightmont supports your child’s academic needs and addresses challenges like anxiety, is it essential for them to be exposed to large groups of peers? Would structured, optional social activities—where your child can engage comfortably—be more beneficial? It’s about finding the right balance to help your child thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.” Brightmont Academy is located at 445 Jackson Ave. in Naperville and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, April 17th, 2025, between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
Private School in Castle Pines Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Castle Pines, CO — One-to-one education is proving to be a game-changer for student success, with 75% of students reporting increased motivation in personalized learning environments compared to just 30% in traditional classrooms. In response to the growing demand for individualized instruction, Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, is expanding its Castle Pines campus with a 7,000-square-foot addition designed to enhance learning opportunities for students of all ages. Matthew Sanders, Campus Director of Brightmont Academy Castle Pines, shared the excitement of this expansion: “We are happy to announce a 7,000 sq/ft expansion to our school! This expansion will include designated electives and science lab areas. We will also have an expanded lunchroom and 12 additional classrooms.” The expansion comes as the campus experiences significant enrollment growth, fueled by word of mouth and strong community engagement. “Word of mouth and community outreach about our positive culture and superstar teachers have led to a tremendous amount of growth. We are excited that our student population is increasing to include more grade levels and different students from all over Colorado,” Sanders added. With the addition of an elementary school program, Brightmont has implemented a mentorship initiative that pairs 6th to 12th-grade students with younger learners to build a strong, inclusive environment. “With the addition of our elementary school program, we knew we had to create a community that cherished all ages. To address this, we created a mentor program for our 6th to 12th-grade students. These mentors are tasked with joining the school community together. Our mentors set up social opportunities for our younger students to interact with the older students. This includes board games, video game tournaments, art sessions, and many other activities,” Sanders explained. The school’s one-to-one instructional model continues to meet the needs of students seeking an individualized approach to education, and the Castle Pines campus is excited to welcome more learners into its growing community. Brightmont Academy is located at 858 W. Happy Canyon Rd. Ste. 170 in Castle Pines and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, March 20th, 2025, between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
