Course Content
Introduction and Syllabus
Embracing neurodivergent children not just with understanding, but with joy. Through personal reflection and current trends in diagnoses, readers are guided toward a strengths-based mindset and introduced to the power of proactive, informed advocacy.
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Course Syllabus
Course Workbook
Module 1: Foundations of Neurodivergence
Foundational chapter defines key terms like autism, ADHD, and sensory processing disorders. It dispels common myths and misconceptions, while introducing the concept of neurodiversity as a natural variation in the human brain—one that offers unique strengths and perspectives.
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What is Neurodiversity?
03:30
Young, Gifted and Black With Autism
ADHD SUCKS, but Not Really…
Module 1 Reading Assignment
Understanding Neurodivergence Reflective Journal 
Understanding Neurodivergence
00:45:00
Module 2: Building A Supportive Network (copy)
Families cannot do it alone. This chapter walks readers through forming a reliable support system—including how to navigate school-based supports like IEPs and 504 Plans, find trustworthy therapists and specialists, and connect with local or online advocacy groups and allies.
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Circle of Support Map
Module 3: Strategies for Everyday Success
Success begins at home. This chapter offers actionable, family-friendly strategies for managing daily life with a neurodivergent child—such as creating visual schedules, implementing sensory supports, and communicating clearly in a way that honors the child’s needs and autonomy.
Module 4: Self-Care and Resilience for Caregivers
Caregivers need care, too. This chapter is a compassionate deep-dive into burnout prevention, therapy, peer support, and balancing identity and personal goals while raising a neurodivergent child. It emphasizes that joyful parenting starts with a well-resourced parent.
Module 5: Addressing Unique Challenges
From sensory overload to sudden transitions, this chapter equips caregivers with tools to address meltdowns, emotional regulation, and social development. It also includes tips for navigating developmental milestones like puberty and school changes with clarity and compassion.
Module 6: Celebrating Strengths and Milestones
Encourages families to notice and celebrate the small and big wins alike. Whether it’s a new word, a calm transition, or a new friendship, celebrating neurodivergent joy helps shift the narrative from “fixing” to flourishing—building hope for the future.
Module 7: Navigating Systems and Institutions
Families often find themselves navigating not one, but many systems—education, healthcare, and social services. This chapter demystifies those systems, offering templates and checklists to help families advocate confidently across professional settings, without feeling overwhelmed or dismissed.
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Disparities in Diagnoses and Service Access for Black Autistic Youth and their Families
Module 8: Advocacy in Action – Raising Awareness & Community Impact
Families are empowered to share their journeys, lead in their communities, and become agents of change. From speaking at school boards to creating safe spaces online, this chapter equips advocates with the tools to raise awareness and amplify neurodivergent voices—starting with their own.
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Miss Texas Autism Advocacy Speech
PSY-AU-101 AUTISM: NEURODIVERGENT JOY
About Lesson

This syllabus serves as a clear and comprehensive guide for students enrolled in PSY-AU-101 Autism: Neurodivergent Joy at Hillmantok University. It outlines the course objectives, weekly topics, required materials, and expectations for participation and assessments. The syllabus is designed to support students in navigating the course with confidence, helping them understand the structure, pacing, and learning outcomes they can expect to achieve. By providing this roadmap, the syllabus ensures that all students—regardless of their background or experience with neurodivergence—are equipped to engage meaningfully with the content, apply it to real-life contexts, and advocate for themselves and others in both academic and personal settings.

Exercise Files
PSY-AU-101.pdf
Size: 3.10 MB
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