Neurodevelopmental Conditions and Learning Differences

Neurodevelopmental Conditions and Learning Differences

All pupils learn and develop in different ways, some finding aspects of school and learning easier than others.

Neurodiversity

The way our brains develop follows a predictable pattern, but because brains are so complex, the exact way and time they develop can vary from person to person. The term ‘neurodiversity’ describes this wide variation in brain processes, and therefore in individuals’ experiences and behaviours.

Neurodivergence

Sometimes these variations are substantial enough to give rise to more categorical differences and sometimes these correspond to diagnostic labels such as autism and ADHD. ‘Neurodivergence’ is used to describe those whose brains, thought processes and/or cognitive abilities differ from ‘neurotypical’ brains and abilities. Neurodivergence is natural and neurodiversity should be welcomed and appreciated as part of human diversity.

Neurodevelopmental difficulties

A diagnosis of a ‘neurodevelopmental disorder’ is a term reserved for those who present with significant difficulties in their day-to-day life due to their neurodivergence. Children and young people may experience difficulties across different areas including their learning, motor skills, communication, behaviour and/or social development.

Neurodevelopmental diagnoses most commonly include:

  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
  • Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
  • Intellectual or Learning Disability
  • Developmental Language Disorder
  • Developmental Co-ordination Disorder (DCD/Dyspraxia).

Specific learning difficulties such as Dyslexia and Dyscalculia are also now considered to be neurodevelopmental difficulties.

Many neurodevelopmental difficulties overlap and interact. These conditions are often identified and diagnosed during childhood or adolescence. Symptoms and behaviours often change as a child grows older, with some difficulties being more long-standing.

Enquiry and Advice Phone Lines for Professionals and Parents / Carers

Parent/carer advice line and professionals’ enquiry line: 01592 226699 on Tuesdays 10am-12pm or Wednesdays 2-4pm.

You’ll be asked to press 1 if you are a parent/carer and 2 if you are a professional.

*Information taken from Fife Council Intranet ‘Schools and Education: Neurodiversity’ 2025

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