Top 3 Tips for Teaching Neurodiverse Students

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Throughout my years of teaching neurodiverse students, I’ve gained invaluable insights and learned so much from them, for which I am truly grateful.

The quote, "When you’ve taught one student on the spectrum, you’ve only taught one," couldn’t be more accurate. Autism is a broad and diverse spectrum, with each student exhibiting unique strengths, challenges, and learning styles. Many of these students also have co-occurring diagnoses, which further shape their individual experiences and needs.

So, how can you effectively support such a diverse group of students in your teaching? Where do you begin?

Here are the top three lessons I’ve learned that will stay with me forever:

1. Trust – This is the foundation.

Neurodiverse students can sense when you’re not being genuine or trustworthy. Building trust takes time, but once established, the rewards are immense. With trust, you can help students navigate big emotions and difficult moments, becoming their safe person when they need it most. Over time, this trust also gives you the ability to challenge them and gently push them out of their comfort zones. Remember, trust isn’t given – it’s earned!

2. Set Clear Expectations and Be Consistent – This benefits all students, not just the neurodiverse.

It may seem obvious, but on days when your students are struggling or you're feeling worn out, things can slip. Inconsistent expectations can lead to confusion and anxiety, especially for neurodivergent students. Set non-negotiables—though they may not always be popular, they are fair and necessary. By ensuring that rules are the same for all students, whether neurodiverse or neurotypical, you create a clear and predictable environment. While the way I guide students through rules, boundaries, and consequences may vary, my expectations remain the same. It all comes down to safety—every student deserves to feel safe and secure in my classroom.

3. Team Approach – A united team with consistent communication is essential.

Neurodiverse students thrive when teachers, parents/carers, EAs, and therapists are all aligned and communicating consistently. Consistency across settings is key—mixed messages or inconsistent approaches create confusion and anxiety. When everyone follows the same routines, strategies, and expectations, it creates a safe, predictable environment where students can truly thrive. Equally important is using shared language, both at home and at school, to ensure everyone is on the same page.

What have you learned throughout your teaching journey from the incredible neurodiverse students in your class? Share your insights in the comments.