With such a diverse range of needs in teenagers today we need to shift from a needs-based to a strengths-based practice in dealing with neurodiversity on the farm. It involves a fundamental change in perspective and approach. Here’s how we will make that transition:
Needs-Based Approach
- Focus: Identifies and addresses deficits or challenges.
- Language: Emphasises what individuals cannot do or need help with.
- Goal: Remediation and normalisation.
- Outcome: Can lead to feelings of inadequacy and dependence.
Strengths-Based Approach
- Focus: Recognises and builds upon individual strengths and abilities.
- Language: Highlights what individuals can do and their unique contributions.
- Goal: Empowerment and self-determination.
- Outcome: Fosters confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging.
Steps to Shift
- Change in Mindset:
- Recognise that neurodiversity is a natural variation, not a deficit.
- Focus on abilities, talents, and unique perspectives.
- See challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.
- Assessment and Planning:
- Use strengths-based assessments that highlight individual skills and interests.
- Collaborate with individuals to identify their goals and aspirations.
- Develop personalised plans that leverage strengths and provide support where needed.
- Task Design and Adaptation:
- Break down tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
- Offer choices and flexibility in how tasks are completed.
- Provide visual aids, checklists, or other tools to support organisation and understanding.
- Communication and Feedback:
- Use positive and encouraging language.
- Focus on effort and progress, not just outcomes.
- Provide specific, actionable feedback that builds on strengths.
- Creating an Inclusive Environment:
- Celebrate diversity and create a culture of acceptance.
- Offer opportunities for everyone to contribute and share their talents.
- Provide training and support for staff and volunteers to understand and implement strengths-based practices.
Examples in the Farm Setting
- Needs-based: Assigning repetitive tasks to someone with ADHD because they struggle with focus.
- Strengths-based: Recognising their hyperfocus and assigning them tasks that require sustained attention to detail, like animal care or plant propagation.
- Needs-based: Excluding someone with autism from social activities due to communication difficulties.
- Strengths-based: Creating alternative ways for them to participate, such as visual communication tools or smaller group interactions.
By shifting to a strengths-based practice, we can create a more inclusive and empowering environment for neurodivergent individuals on the farm, allowing them to thrive and contribute their unique talents and perspectives.
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