Wakefulness
The state of being awake and alert; ensuring adequate wakefulness is important for neurodivergent individuals' cognitive functioning and daily performance.
Warm and Supportive Environment
A welcoming and encouraging setting that fosters growth and comfort; creating a warm and supportive environment is vital for helping neurodivergent individuals feel safe and valued.
Warm-Up Activities
Exercises or tasks aimed at preparing individuals mentally and physically for learning or participation; warm-up activities can help neurodivergent individuals transition into activities more smoothly.
Webinars
Online seminars or presentations that can cover various topics; webinars can provide valuable information and resources for neurodivergent individuals and their families.
Weighted Blankets
Therapeutic blankets filled with materials to provide gentle pressure, which can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep for neurodivergent individuals.
Well-Being
A state of comfort, health, or happiness; promoting well-being is a key aspect of supporting neurodivergent individuals.
Well-Structured Programs
Organized educational or support programs that follow clear frameworks; well-structured programs are essential for providing effective support to neurodivergent individuals.
Wellness
A holistic state of health that includes physical, mental, and social well-being; promoting wellness is essential for neurodivergent individuals to thrive in their daily lives.
Whistleblower Protections
Legal safeguards for individuals who report unethical or harmful practices; understanding whistleblower protections is important in advocating for the rights of neurodivergent individuals in various settings.
Whole Person Approach
A holistic method of support that considers all aspects of an individual’s life, including emotional, physical, and social factors; essential for supporting neurodivergent individuals effectively.
Whole-Body Awareness
The ability to sense and understand one’s body in space, which can impact coordination and motor skills; promoting whole-body awareness can help neurodivergent individuals improve their physical functioning.
Whole-Brain Teaching
An educational approach that engages multiple areas of the brain through interactive and dynamic teaching strategies; effective for neurodivergent learners who thrive in engaging environments.
Wide-Awake
A state of heightened alertness and awareness; for some neurodivergent individuals, being wide awake can be linked to anxiety or overstimulation.
Willingness to Engage
The readiness or openness to participate in social activities or interactions; understanding and fostering willingness to engage can improve social skills in neurodivergent individuals.
Willingness to Learn
The openness and motivation to acquire new knowledge or skills; fostering willingness to learn can enhance the educational experiences of neurodivergent individuals.
Wisdom Circles
Group discussions designed to foster sharing and learning among participants; wisdom circles can support neurodivergent individuals by creating a safe space for open dialogue.
Withdrawal
A behavioral response characterized by retreating from social interactions or engaging less in activities; withdrawal can be a coping mechanism for neurodivergent individuals facing sensory overload or anxiety.
Word Games
Interactive games involving words that can enhance vocabulary and communication skills; word games can be entertaining and educational for neurodivergent individuals.
Word Retrieval
The ability to access and produce words from memory; challenges with word retrieval can cause difficulties in communication for neurodivergent individuals, especially in social situations.
Word Sensitivity
A heightened sensitivity to certain words or phrases that may evoke strong emotional reactions; understanding word sensitivity is important for effective communication with neurodivergent individuals.
Wording Effects
The impact that the choice of words has on understanding and interpretation; sensitive wording can significantly affect communication with neurodivergent individuals, influencing their comprehension and feelings.
Working Memory
A cognitive system responsible for temporarily holding and manipulating information; challenges with working memory are common in neurodivergent individuals, impacting learning and task management.
Workplace Accommodations
Adjustments made in the workplace to enable employees with disabilities, including neurodivergent individuals, to perform their jobs effectively; examples include flexible schedules or tailored workspaces.
Workshops
Interactive training sessions focused on developing specific skills or knowledge; workshops can benefit neurodivergent individuals by providing practical strategies and tools.
Worry
An emotional state characterized by anxious thoughts about potential future events; many neurodivergent individuals may experience heightened levels of worry, necessitating coping strategies.
Wraparound Services
Comprehensive support services that encompass various aspects of an individual’s life, including education, health, and social support; essential for effectively meeting the needs of neurodivergent individuals.
Wrist Support
Devices or tools designed to provide support and alleviate strain on the wrists, often used by neurodivergent individuals who may have fine motor challenges.
Written Expression
The ability to communicate ideas effectively through writing; difficulties in written expression can be common in neurodivergent individuals, affecting academic performance and communication.