Free Webinar: The Gift of Neurodiversity
What does neurodiversity mean for children?
For children, neurodiversity means recognising that there is no single “right” way to learn or experience the world. A neurodivergent child may, for example, have strong visual thinking, creativity, or deep focus on areas of interest, while also finding certain things harder, such as managing attention, processing language, handling sensory input, or coping with change. Understanding this balance helps adults respond with the right support rather than focusing only on difficulties.
Why is a strengths-based approach important?
When children are seen only through their challenges, their confidence and motivation can suffer. A strengths-based approach helps children build self-esteem and a positive sense of identity, while still ensuring they receive the support they need. It also helps parents and teachers work together more effectively around a shared understanding of the child.
The Developing Child Centre (TDCC) is hosting a free online webinar for parents, caregivers, and educators on understanding neurodiversity and helping every child thrive.
Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in how people’s brains work: how we think, learn, focus, communicate, and process the world around us. Children who are neurodivergent, including those with differences such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or other learning and processing differences, often bring real strengths alongside genuine challenges. When the adults around them understand both, children are far more likely to feel confident, included, and able to reach their potential.
Led by Dr Ruba Tabari, Consultant Educational Psychologist at TDCC’s Psychology Department, this session moves beyond labels to focus on the whole child: recognising what each child does well, understanding what they find difficult, and creating environments at home and school where they can belong and flourish.
Objectives
By the end of the session, participants will be able to:
1) Understand neurodiversity and how differences in thinking, learning, attention, communication, and processing can shape a child’s experiences.
2) Recognise and nurture each child’s strengths while understanding the challenges that may affect learning, emotional wellbeing, and participation.
3) Explore practical ways to create supportive environments at home and school that promote confidence, inclusion, and a sense of belonging.
About the Speaker
Dr. Ruba Tabari is a Consultant Educational Psychologist with over 30 years of experience supporting children, families, and schools in the UK and UAE. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Psychology from University College London (UCL) and is licensed under the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) in the UK and the Community Development Authority and Department of Health in the UAE.
Dr. Ruba has played a pivotal role in shaping wellbeing and inclusion initiatives across educational institutions. She was instrumental in developing the Wellbeing Policy Framework for private schools and nurseries under the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK).
Her work is guided by the belief that empathy and connection form the cornerstone of every child’s development. Through her extensive experience and compassionate approach, Dr. Ruba continues to empower educators and families to nurture emotional intelligence and resilience in children.
Register now!
