Neurodiversity refers to the natural differences in how people think, learn, and interact with the world around them. Being ‘neurodiverse’ means having a brain that experiences the world differently than a ‘neurotypical’ person. This includes:

• Autism
• ADHD
• Learning disabilities
• Other neurological or developmental conditions.

Neurodiveristy and the Online Environment

Neurodivergent children and young people can experience particular benefits and harms from being online.

Benefits

• Connect with others with similar interests
• Text-based or visual communication, particularly if socialising offline is challenging
• Being creative (gaming/art)
• Opportunities for self-advocacy and sharing their experiences

Challenges

• Sensory overload from autoplay and noise
• Misreading others online – tone, sarcasm, social cues
• Exposure to harmful content/online bullying
• Internet addiction or hyperfixation
• Greater risk for certain harms – e.g. Struggle to differentiate between internet users with good intentions and scammers
• Platforms not designed with them in mind – e.g. “What’s on your mind” Facebook prompt, leading to some users oversharing about themselves or others

Tips for supporting neurodiverse children online

• Provide guidance around “hidden rules” and online behavioural norms, using visual supports where needed
• Teach children how to navigate the internet safely
• Create digital routines and ensure a healthy balance between online hobbies and real-life commitments to avoid overuse
• See the internet as a means for social connection and identity formation

Useful Websites & Resources

• Internet Matters – Information on keeping neurodivergent children safe online.
• Online Safety & SEND – Advice and activities from the NSPCC for parents/carers of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
• Childnet – Information for educators on supporting autistic children and young people.
• UK Safer Internet Centre – Information on having conversations with neurodivergent children.
• Gaming Habits – Guide from Internet Matters to build safe and healthy habits in online games.
• AbilityNet – Specialist services and impartial support to create a digital world accessible to all.
• SWGfL – Resources for educations settings around supporting SEND learners

You can download our Neurodiversity & Being Online resource so you have all of this information to hand:

Aye Mind newsletter – Neurodiversity & Being Online

If you would like to subscribe, email ggc.mhead@nhs.scot and request to be added to the Aye Mind newsletter distribution list.