I am proudly a certified Autplay provider. Dr. Robert Jason Grant’s AutPlay Therapy framework integrates play therapy with a focus on neurodiversity-affirming practices, particularly for neurodivergent children, including those with autism, ADHD, and other developmental differences. Being neurodiversity affirming within this framework means adopting attitudes, practices, and interventions that respect and validate the unique ways neurodivergent individuals experience and navigate the world. Here’s what it entails:
1. Recognizing Neurodivergence as Natural
Neurodiversity affirming approaches view neurodivergence as a natural variation of human diversity rather than a disorder to be "fixed" or "cured."
AutPlay promotes understanding the strengths, preferences, and challenges associated with neurodivergence without pathologizing it.
2. Prioritizing Strengths Over Deficits
Rather than focusing solely on reducing "problematic" behaviors, AutPlay emphasizes identifying and building on a child’s strengths and unique abilities.
This includes celebrating interests, talents, and skills that may emerge through play.
3. Adopting a Child-Centered Approach
A neurodiversity-affirming mindset ensures that therapy aligns with the child’s needs, preferences, and sensory profiles.
AutPlay integrates structured play and sensory activities while allowing space for self-directed engagement.
4. Rejecting Compliance-Based Models
Neurodiversity-affirming practices avoid behavior management techniques that prioritize compliance over autonomy.
Instead, the framework fosters cooperative interactions and honors the child’s boundaries and communication styles.
5. Valuing Authentic Communication
Communication is respected in all its forms, whether verbal, nonverbal, or through assistive technology.
Therapists are encouraged to adapt to and support a child’s natural communication style, avoiding pressure to conform to neurotypical norms.
6. Incorporating Sensory Understanding
AutPlay recognizes the importance of sensory differences in neurodivergent children and integrates sensory regulation strategies into therapy.
Being neurodiversity affirming involves acknowledging sensory needs as valid and finding ways to create supportive environments.
7. Empowering Neurodivergent Voices
The framework involves listening to and valuing the experiences and input of neurodivergent individuals, whether directly or through family and caregivers.
Neurodiversity-affirming therapists advocate for neurodivergent children and empower them to advocate for themselves as they grow.
8. Respecting Cultural and Individual Contexts
Neurodiversity affirmation in AutPlay extends to respecting the cultural and personal identities of the child and their family.
Therapists work to understand how cultural and environmental factors intersect with neurodivergence.
By being neurodiversity affirming, AutPlay therapy not only provides a supportive and respectful therapeutic environment but also empowers neurodivergent children to thrive as their authentic selves. This approach not only aligns with broader societal movements towards inclusivity, acceptance, and respect for diversity in all its forms, but it is also a framework that speaks deeply to my heart and human experience (both as a person with ADHD and a member of a family with many types of Neurodivergence!).
Are you curious about Dr. Grant? Learn more on his bio page: https://www.robertjasongrant.com/about-dr-grant/
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