Designing Welcoming, Equitable, and Positive Girls' Sports Programs - 9 Tips

Source: Positive Coaching Alliance

Designing youth sports programs with girls central and in mind is key to making youth sports welcoming, equitable, and positive for all. Check out these nine tips! These tips are reposted with permission from Positive Coaching Alliance. 

1. Make It Girl-Centered

Over 90% of girls ages 7 to13 who play sports like (or love!) to participate. Younger and older girls, and young women really enjoy athletics. Presume girls are interested and want to play especially when programs are inclusive and accommodating.

2. Make It Intentional to Get All Girls in the Game

Black and Latinx girls enter sport at a later average age and leave sport earlier than their counterparts, affording girls of color an even narrower window of opportunity. Girls of color and girls in low-income
communities are getting fewer opportunities to play, yet want to play in greater numbers! Let’s include everyone.

3. Make It Responsive to Girls’ Interests

• Using simple surveys, small focus groups, and/or basic outreach to understand what sports girls want to play, and how, can help set up a lasting, successful program based on girls’ interests. For example, volleyball, soccer, and basketball are popular girls’ sports nationwide; check what girls want to play in your area.
• Many girls prefer and thrive in all girls’ athletic contexts whereas some girls like co-ed play – check with girls on what they prefer and offer that!
• Don’t assume what girls want to play or base offerings simply on what a coach knows / has coached/ what’s been historically offered. Ask and tailor programs.

4. Make It Safe (Physically)

Safety – Are the practice / game times, locations, facilities, and items like bathrooms safe
and accessible (corresponding to identity)? Simple steps like working lights, adult supervision, and safe, clear spaces help girls play.

Source: www.pexels.com

5. Make It Safe (Emotionally)

• Comfortable – Create fun, engaging sport routines so girls know what to expect.
• Belonging – Prioritize support and training for staff / coaches to use positive, gender-supportive language, names, and preferred pronouns, demonstrate empathy, and build connections with girls.
• Friends – Connections with peers is often a driver for participation. Use a buddy registration / team formation system so that girls can know one person, if preferred.
• Curb the Negative – Counter gender stereotypes that can limit girls’ participation. Ensure kids and adults near practice and game space use supportive language.
• Empathy – Coaches can listen to understand girls’ perspectives without judgment.

6. Make It Accessible

• Scheduling – Getting to practice / games is doable if scheduling and facilities are considered – e.g., have sports on / near campuses at ideal times, at a close-by park, and along public transit lines. Support carpools. Consider calendar conflicts.
• Cost – Cost impacts girls in starting and sticking with sport. Make offerings affordable and scholarships available – consider costs (league, equipment, transportation).

7. Make It Informed to Understand Barriers

Finding out what’s keeping girls from playing is key to designing inclusive, supportive, positive, girl-oriented programming. Common barriers easily overcome include:

• Not knowing how / when to sign up for sports programming
• Knowledge gaps re: sports
• Never having played before
• Gender inequity, such as girls’ teams / leagues / divisions getting “less”
• Attitudes of families, communities, and institutions impeding girls’ play
• Obligations (e.g., job to support family; caretaking of siblings)

Source: www.pexels.com

8. Make It Inviting to Break Down Barriers

• Use inviting, clear team, division, and league information for sign-ups; include images of girls actively playing in outreach materials.
• Explain rules and game to girls brand new to the sport; novices welcome!
• Ensure girls’ offerings are gender equitable (facilities, schedules, etc.)
• Share information with girls, families, and all re: why girls in sport benefit (ideally in multiple languages and in engaging ways).
• Offer practice / games when girls are available; explore childcare help for girls with family-oriented obligations.

9. Make It Collaborative With Girls

• Voice and Choice – Share power with girls to help design your program
• Effort, Learn from Mistakes, Mastery – Celebrate progress, not just outcomes
• Balance – Instill healthy competition and fun; mindful of girls’ range of motivations

Download the resource here.

For a full briefing paper on the importance of play, click here.

Check out our upcoming webinar on The Importance of Play in Afterschool. To learn more and register, click here.

Sports and Play Promotes Social Emotional Learning and Character

Source: Coaching Corps

By Sam Piha

 

The research says there is a strong connection between organized sports and play and the development of SEL and character. Yet the rising costs of “participating in organized youth sports is making these activities unaffordable for many families, essentially barring kids and teens from important opportunities to improve their physical health, develop social-emotional skills, and build relationships.” [i] However, there is also a trend in schools to increase time for reading and math by eliminating time for play, including recess. 

Source: CASEL

That’s where OST programs come in. “They can play a vital role in making access to organized sports more equitable, according to the 2023 State of Play report from the Aspen Institute, a think tank.” [ii]

“You can also just have programming after school that is teaching and exposing kids to the sports. Some of the best ways to do that is by bringing in partners from your community. It’s a great opportunity as well for the community programs. Take youth soccer as an example: youth soccer associations that want to grow the sport, why would you not want to come into schools and find ways to subsidize this?” [iii] - Jon Solomon, the editorial director of the Sports & Society Program at the Aspen Institute 



SHRINKING ACCESS TO YOUTH SPORTS

“I think more and more people recognize that you have to provide sports opportunities within the school setting because that’s where most kids are. These are kids who have less money, or their parents are working multiple jobs and can’t get them to practices and games.” [iv] - Jon Solomon, the editorial director of the Sports & Society Program at the Aspen Institute 

 

According to Arianna Prothero, “Sports participation is much lower among children from low-income families than among those from high-income families. A quarter of kids from families earning less than $25,000 a year participate in regular sports, compared with 39 percent of kids in families earning more than $100,000 a year, according to the report. 

 

While sports participation among 6- to 12-year-olds from low-income families has gone up over the past four years, participation among 13- to 17-year-olds in that income bracket continues to decrease, dropping from 38 percent in 2012 to 27 percent in 2022.” [v]

 

SPORTS AND SEL

“While organized sports are excellent SEL skill-builders, uniforms, referees, and rulebooks are not required for children to reap the social and emotional benefits of play. Like organized sports, all types of play offer opportunities to explore, imagine, and create. When children play with others, they practice cooperation, communication, and conflict resolution. Construction play, like building with LEGOs, activates children’s problem-solving skills. And through dramatic play, children take on the perspectives of others and practice empathy. So, get out there and play!” [vi]

Source: Edutopia

 

COACHES TRAINING

If we want to see playing organized sports as contributing to character and social emotional learning, sports coaches require training. There are organizations such as the Positive Coaching Alliance that specialize in this kind of training for coaches. 

 

“Are we as coaches concerned most with hoisting the championship trophy in the air at the end of the season, or raising up stronger character in our youth?” [vii] - Pete Paciorek

 

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES ON PLAY 

There are many resources on the topic of play. We cite a few below. 



Websites 

• The power of play – Part 1-5: This is a 5-part series from Michigan State University The Power of Play
• The Genius of Play has created easy to use activities, provides expert advice and more. And it's all FREE for anyone to use.

Videos

There are many TED talks and other videos on play. Below are some that we like. 

• TED Talk by Stuart Brown entitled “Play is more than just fun” 
• TED Talk by Peter Gray entitled “The decline of play”

 

Articles

• Embracing Learning Through Play by Elizabeth M. Ross
• Teaching Leadership Skills With PE Games by Donna Paul
• The Importance of Play for Adolescents by Heather Hayes

 

LIAS Blogs

You can also view previous LIAS Blogs on the topic of play here and on the topic of sports here. 

For a full briefing paper on the importance of play, click here.

Check out our upcoming webinar on The Importance of Play in Afterschool. To learn more and register, click here.

END NOTES:

[i] Arianna Prothero, Kids Are Getting Priced Out of Youth Sports. How Schools Can Help

[ii] IBID.

[iii] IBID.

[iv] IBID.

[v] IBID.

[vi] The Collaborative for Academic, Social and Emotional Learning (CASEL), Connections, July 2024

[vii] Dr. Arthur Schwartz, What does the research say about the connection between sports and character?

 

How to Help Girls Develop Through Sports and Role Models

Source: www.pexels.com

By Sam Piha

There is an exploding interest in girls’ sports, as our understanding of the benefits grow. Through girls’ sports afterschool programs can promote leadership, engagement and personal empowerment.

“We know that sport is empowering, particularly for girls, and challenge gender norms. Sport participation offers girls an opportunity to build their self-esteem, courage and self-efficacy. It is a place where they can take up leadership positions and through sport programs girls' belief in their own ability increases. This translates into everyday life – it encourages them to take initiative, raise their voices and attempt things they never assumed were possible.

When community members see girls achieve in sport, they often recognize their potential to achieve in other domains.  Lastly, sport is a powerful tool and platform to strengthen social ties, networks, engage the community and promote positive messages. In short, wins on the field translate into wins off the field – One Win Leads to Another.” [1]

 

TIPS FOR DEVELOPING LEADERSHIP

According to Women Win, “Girls’ leadership can and should be an important part of program design. Developing the leadership abilities and opportunities within a program for the adolescent girl participants creates a pool of potential coaches, facilitators and female leaders for your sport programs. This, in turn, increases the potential for these girls to grow as leaders in their communities.

One of the most powerful ways to build leadership qualities in girls is to put girls in leadership roles. When girls are expected to lead others, they find power within themselves they might not know existed. This can come in the form of formal positions or informal relationships between girls. Creative program leaders and coaches find subtle ways to facilitate this process and support all forms of leadership.

• Be patient. Leadership is a skill that is developed over time. Ask girls what they are good at and how they want to build their skills and confidence. Encourage them to lead their own development.
• Allow girls to elect their own leaders.
• Highlight examples of good leadership.
• Let girls train others in sport-specific, practical and life skills.
• Show girls you value their opinions.
• Explicitly talk about and encourage discussions about leadership values to girls regularly.
• Lead by example as a coach or program leader.
• Support positive role modelling.
• Allow girls to choose if they want to fill leadership roles.
• Encourage girls to go out in community and be recognized.
• Reward acts of leadership with outward praise and formal honors.
• Reward exceptional performance with leadership roles.
• Give all girls opportunities to lead during practice, not just older, talented, non-disabled or more natural leaders.
• Constantly encourage goal setting and evaluation.
• Target inhibitors of leadership and address them, such as lack of confidence, peer pressure or poor mentoring.
• Seek to help every girl develop to her highest personal potential, as opposed to constantly criticizing or comparing girls to one another.
• Recognize quiet leadership in girls, those who are not outspoken or loud, but rather, those who will always run the extra lap with the slowest girl on the team.
• Create standards of what it takes to be a leader from both girls with and without disabilities

Personal empowerment and control are closely linked. Program partners report that when a girl feels like she has control over her body, her future and her environment, she begins to feel strong and powerful. It is important to give participants in your program some degree of control over the design of the program, especially when the intent of the program is to increase girls’ self-esteem. Girls are more likely to fully engage in activities that they help design.” [2]

Source: www.pexels.com

PROGRAM DESIGN: HOW TO ENGAGE GIRLS IN SPORTS 

• “Allow girls to choose paint colors and make decorations for the space where their sessions are held.
• Ask girls to vote on how they would like to be grouped for competitions, for example, by age, by region or by skill level.
• Give girls the choice of uniform colors and team names.
• Consult with girls and their families about time and duration of practices and training sessions
• Ask girls to create rules of conduct for sessions and penalties for breach of conduct.
• Pick a group of girls to interview and evaluate potential coaches.
• Ask girls which sport they would like to play.
• Ask girls which life skills topics they would like to discuss.” [3]

THE IMPORTANCE OF ROLE MODELS FOR GIRLS 

According to Women Win, “Girls are exposed to both positive and negative role models every day: a strong mother who stands up against domestic abuse or a female celebrity that uses her sex appeal to be popular. All of these people affect how a girl views her own potential. These are the people who girls use as references for whom they will become and whose behavior they will emulate.

Local examples provide more easily imaginable visions of success. A key component to presenting girls with role models is to make sure the success experienced by the role models is attainable and replicable in their minds. Research has shown that when individuals feel that the role model in front of them has attained a status unreachable to them, their presence can actually be demoralizing. If possible, find role models who exemplify an area in which girls have an interest and where they need help in personal development. Find a person who can share their personal experience with personal growth in that area. Men can certainly serve as positive role models; however, there is an inherent value in same-gender role modelling.” [4]

Source: www.pexels.com

Role Models: Some Tips

“A girl needs to see confidence, leadership and accomplishment in other women in order to envision herself with those qualities. A program designed to empower girls must provide powerful, positive role models. As program directors, it is helpful to expose girls to a diverse set of role models as consistently as possible. Strong role models can be women who are older, skilled athletes, coaches, community leaders, successful business people, celebrities, politicians, religious leaders, confident peers or any strong woman whose presence will resonate with the girls. Although there is power to showing girls women who are international heroines, there is also a power to exposing them to local people.” [5] -  Women Win

Women Win offers these tips to promote women role models: 

• “Organize events where role models speak to girls about their experiences.
• Try to pair up individual girls with older mentors with the intention of creating long-lasting relationships.
• Take girls to see athletic events with older participants. Arrange a meet-and-greet afterwards to allow girls to interact with players.
• Set up guest coaching sessions with successful coaches from your region.
• Ensure that all those in positions of power within the organization are serving as positive role models for participants.
• Seek role models outside of the sport arena. Invite a successful businesswoman or female politician to come to the program and speak to the girls.
• Consider inviting men or women with a disability to come speak, as they often have a powerful impact on girls with and without disabilities.
• Discuss the concept of “negative role modelling” with girls, i.e., simply because a person is successful does not mean that they are worthy of being a role model. Challenge girls to evaluate virtues, values and expectations related to these role models.” [6]

RESOURCES TO LEARN MORE

In addition to the resources that are cited in the end notes (below), we also recommend a few additional resources.

• Women’s Sports Foundation- Designing a Quality Girls’ Sports Program
• Women Win- Engaging Girls in Sport
• Women Win- Guides

END NOTES

[1] Women Win, Empowering Girls Through Sport

[2] Women Win, Developing Girls’ Leadership

[3] Women Win, Girl-Led Design

[4] Women Win, The Power of Role Models

[5] IBID.

[6] IBID. 

Neurodiversity: Terms and Definitions

Source: Genius Within

By Sam Piha

The Neurodiversity Working Group published a comprehensive glossary of terms related to neurodiversity. Below is a partial list of terms from this publication. 

“Acquired or traumatic brain injury: Acquired brain injury is damage to the brain caused by an accident or event. This condition can affect an individual’s cognition and behavior, through impairments to their memory, personal organization, communication skills and their ability to concentrate. 

Asperger syndrome: Asperger syndrome is a form of autism with mild or no impairment in the individual's capacity to use language. Asperger syndrome was removed from DSM-5 (see below) in 2013 and replaced with autism spectrum disorder (see below). However, many people were historically given this diagnosis and may still use this term. 

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that has three sub-groups – hyperactive ADHD, impulsive inattentive ADHD and combined inattentive and hyperactive ADHD. Individuals may experience effects that predominantly fall within one category or a combination of categories. ADHD is characterized by a persistent pattern (at least six months) of inattention and/or hyperactivity- impulsivity, with onset typically in early to mid-childhood. The degree of inattention and hyperactivity impulsivity significantly interferes with academic, occupational or social functioning. 

Source: www.pexels.com

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or autism spectrum condition (ASC): ASD or ASC is a neurodevelopmental condition that is characterized by persistent deficits in impulse control, sensory regulation, and the ability to initiate and sustain reciprocal social interaction, and communication. It is also characterized by restricted, repetitive and inflexible patterns of behavior and interests. It is worth noting that everyone with a diagnosis will have strengths and weaknesses, and some will have more autistic traits than others, but it is the degree and pattern of impairment which has led to the diagnosis of an ASD. 

Dyslexia: Dyslexia is a developmental learning disorder with impairment in reading. It is characterized by significant and persistent difficulties in learning academic skills related to reading, such as word-reading accuracy, reading fluency and reading comprehension. It affects language cognition in the brain, which manifests itself in difficulties in reading, writing and ordering speech. Working memory is also affected. 

Emotional and energy regulation: The ability to manage energy and feelings to suit a situation. The ability to manage feelings in ways that are acceptable to those around us. Impulse control: The skill of thinking before acting or speaking. The ability to pause and think something through. The act of inhibiting one’s behavior in a particular context. 

Equality Act 2010: The Equality Act 2010 is a law that protects people from discrimination. It means that it is illegal, under the Equality Act, to treat someone less favorably because of a protected characteristic including disability. A person can be classed disabled, and therefore afforded the protections of the Equality Act 2010, if they have a physical or mental impairment that has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’ negative effect on their ability to do normal daily activities. The duty to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ in the workplace extends to those with neurodevelopmental conditions who fit the Equality Act definitions. 

Executive functioning: Executive functioning is a set of cognitive mental processes that help us get things done and regulate our behavior. The deficits in executive function skills are the cognition differences and behavioral traits that are measured by psychologists and psychiatrists to determine whether a diagnostic threshold is met for any particular condition. There are some variance as to the exact number and definitions of executive function skills in academia and other reference sources, however a summary of those for use in this glossary are as follows. 

Hyperactivity: Hyperactivity refers to excessive motor activity and difficulties with remaining still, most evident in structured situations that require behavioral self-control. 

Source: www.pexels.com

Hypersensitivity: An unusually high or intense response to a particular stimulus (for example, smell, texture or color). 

Impulsivity: Impulsivity is a tendency to act in response to immediate stimuli, without deliberation or consideration of the risks and consequences. ADHD affects an individual’s attention span, ability to focus and impulse control. 

Inattention: Inattention refers to distractibility, problems with organization, and significant difficulty in giving sustained attention to tasks that do not provide a high level of stimulation or frequent rewards. 

Intellectual disability: Intellectual disability is a developmental condition that can affect the development of an individual’s cognitive function and adaptive behavior skills. These two things can affect thinking, learning, problem solving and reasoning. 

Mental ill health: Under the neurodiversity umbrella, mental health refers to conditions that affect cognition and behavior, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex PTSD, anxiety, depression and obsessive compulsive disorder. These conditions can occur for a number of reasons, including adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), exposure to single-incident trauma, repeat and persistent exposure to low-level trauma, the side effects of medication, exposure to certain substances, or as a response to a significant life event. 

Neurodiversity: Neurodiversity is an umbrella term used to describe differences in the human brain in relation to a range of mental functions, such as sociability, learning and mood attention. The concept is a respectful way of thinking about our colleagues and communities. Neurodiversity aims to highlight the positive attributes of different neurocognitive functioning, rather than focus on deficits or deviations from a set standard. 

Neurodiversity movement: The Neurodiversity movement is a social justice movement that seeks civil rights, equality, respect and full societal inclusion for neurodivergent people. 

Processing: How quickly someone can make sense of, and respond to, information they have seen or heard. An Individual may have different processing speeds for auditory, motor and visual information. 

Tourette syndrome: Tourette syndrome is a chronic tic disorder characterized by the presence of both chronic motor tics and vocal (phonic) tics. Minor and major motor and vocal tics are defined as uncontrollable, sudden, rapid, non-rhythmic and recurrent movements or vocalizations, respectively. In order to be diagnosed as Tourette syndrome, both motor and vocal tics must have been present for at least one year, although they may not manifest concurrently or consistently throughout that period.” [i]

For a full briefing paper on neurodiversity, click here.

END NOTES:
[i] Neurodiversity Working Group, Frequently used terms regarding neurodiversity 

Why Is Neurodiversity Important?

Source: www.pexels.com

By Sam Piha

 

According to Google AI, “Neurodiversity is important because it recognizes that human brains differ in their structure and function, and these differences are natural and valuable. Embracing neurodiversity promotes inclusivity, fosters innovation, and highlights the unique strengths and perspectives of individuals with diverse neurological profiles. 

Here's a more detailed look at why neurodiversity matters:

1. Fostering Inclusivity and Acceptance: Neurodiversity acknowledges that there is no single "normal" way for brains to function.  It challenges the stigma and negative stereotypes associated with conditions like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. By recognizing and valuing different ways of thinking and learning, neurodiversity promotes a more inclusive society where everyone feels understood and accepted. 
2. Driving Innovation and Creativity: Neurodiverse individuals often possess unique problem-solving skills, innovative thinking patterns, and a keen eye for detail. These strengths can lead to fresh insights, new solutions, and a greater ability to see connections that others may miss. Companies that embrace neurodiversity are more likely to be innovation leaders and attract and retain top talent. 
3. Enhancing Workplace Performance: Neurodiverse individuals can bring valuable skills like hyperfocus, analytical thinking, and strong recall of information. These strengths can be particularly valuable in fields like IT, data analysis, and creative industries. Research suggests that teams with neurodiverse members can be more productive and effective. 
4. Addressing Skills Gaps and Workforce Needs: In a world facing skills shortages in areas like technology and data analysis, neurodiversity can help tap into a vast and underutilized talent pool. By creating inclusive hiring practices and supportive work environments, organizations can benefit from the diverse skills and perspectives of neurodiverse individuals. 
5. Promoting Wellbeing and Self-Acceptance: Embracing neurodiversity allows individuals to understand and appreciate their own unique strengths and challenges. It can lead to increased self-esteem, career aspirations, and a greater sense of belonging.  

In conclusion, neurodiversity is not just about understanding differences; it's about celebrating them and harnessing their potential to create a more inclusive, innovative, and thriving society.” [i]

Source: www.pexels.com

Neurodivergence is often viewed as a weakness, but neurodiversity offers an alternative perspective: Differences in brain functioning can be a strength. “'Neurodivergence is not a diagnosis, but more of a care philosophy. It's a more inclusive way to describe people whose brain functions differently,' says Colby P. Wiley, PhD, a neuropsychologist at Northwestern Medicine. 'This perspective emphasizes the positive aspects, aiming to highlight the strengths associated with the diagnosis rather than focusing on remediating the deficits.

 

Some strengths of neurodivergence include:

• Innovation and creativity

• Accuracy

• Unique problem-solving

• High levels of concentration

• Reliability” [ii]

 

Google AI elaborates:

• “Neurodiversity as an identity: The neurodiversity movement sees neurological differences as a natural part of human diversity, similar to other identities like race or ethnicity. 
• Focus on strengths: Neurodiversity highlights the strengths and unique talents of neurodivergent individuals, rather than focusing solely on challenges. 
• Beyond medical labels: Neurodiversity is not a medical diagnosis, but a social and philosophical perspective that challenges the idea of neurological differences as illnesses to be cured. 
• Legal and practical considerations: While some neurodivergent individuals may experience challenges that meet the criteria for disability under laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act, not all neurodivergent individuals are considered disabled. 
• Inclusion and acceptance: Neurodiversity promotes inclusion and acceptance of all individuals, regardless of their neurological profile. 
• Social justice movement: The neurodiversity movement is also a social justice movement that aims to create a more equitable and inclusive society for all.” [iii]  

For a full briefing paper on neurodiversity, click here.

BREAKING NEWS from the Afterschool Alliance

 

The federal government is saying it will release funds for local afterschool and summer programs--FY25 21st Century Community Learning Centers funds--to states next week. This victory for children and families is a direct result of your work. Every one of your efforts to communicate with lawmakers, mobilize parents and allies, and so much more mattered!!! 

 

Take a moment to celebrate!

END NOTES:

[i] Google AI, Why is Neurodiversity Important?

[ii] Northwestern Medicine, Understanding Neurodiversity: Exploring Differences in Brain Function

[iii] Google AI, Why is Neurodiversity not a Disability?

An Overview of Neurodiversity

Source: www.pexels.com

By Sam Piha

As afterschool workers, we are responsible for creating a safe learning environment for all children, regardless of learning style. In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards inclusive education practices that support and accommodate neurodivergent students. In fact, many of the quality standards for afterschool programs are aligned with supporting youth who are neurodiverse. 

Schools and afterschool programs are recognizing the importance of creating environments that caters to the diverse needs of students, allowing them to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Understanding neurodiversity is crucial for youth workers to advocate for children’s rights and ensure they receive the support they need to succeed in their education.

In this and subsequent blogs, we will explain neurodiversity and highlight some ways to support neurodivergent youth to thrive in afterschool programs. 

WHAT IS NEURODIVERSITY?

Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in human brains and the diverse ways in which individuals perceive, think, and learn. It recognizes that neurological differences, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others, should be embraced and valued as part of the human experience.

Neurodiversity is a concept that challenges the traditional view of neurological differences as disorders or deficits. It emphasizes the variation in neurological development and the idea that these differences should be celebrated and respected. Just as biodiversity is essential for the health of an ecosystem, neurodiversity is crucial for the well-being and progress of society. 

It is important to remember that neurodiversity is not an excuse to ignore or downplay the challenges that neurodivergent individuals may face. Instead, it seeks to promote acceptance and understanding of diverse neurological profiles while addressing the barriers that hinder their full participation in society. By embracing neurodiversity, we can foster a more inclusive and equitable world for all.

Neurodiversity is an essential aspect of our society and understanding its principles and implications in education is crucial.” [i]

“Neurodiversity is not a disability; it is a celebration of the unique capabilities and strengths that neurodivergent individuals bring to the table. By shifting our perspective, challenging stereotypes, and fostering inclusivity, we can create a world where everyone is accepted and valued for who they are, regardless of their neurological differences. Let us embrace neurodiversity and unlock the limitless potential that lies within each unique mind.” [ii]

AN INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF NEURODIVERSE STUDENTS NEEDING ACCOMMODATION

According to Michelle Garnett and Tony Attwood, “In the last 30 years we have seen a marked increase in our understanding of the brain and how a different neurology can lead to different ways of learning, communicating, sensing and relating. As a result, ways of being neurodivergent that were historically missed in schools are now being detected more often. These include autism with fluent speech, ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia, certain mental health disorders, attachment disorders, epilepsy, narcolepsy and Tourette’s syndrome. 

These neurotypes are usually invisible, although they may be clear in certain settings. For example, the Talis Report (OECD, 2019) indicated that 30% of teachers worked in classes where over 10% of students had additional support needs. In the past a teacher may have had 0-2 identified students. As we discuss below, these statistics only cover students who have been formally identified to be neurodivergent.” [iii]

Source: Genius Within

According to Google AI, “the growing number of neurodivergent students in schools is due to several factors:

• Increased Awareness: Increased awareness about neurodivergent conditions like autism and ADHD has led to more individuals recognizing and seeking diagnoses. 
• Improved Diagnostic Tools: Advancements in diagnostic tools and assessments have made it easier to identify and diagnose neurodivergent conditions. 
• Greater Access to Support: More schools and universities are implementing universal design for learning (UDL) principles, creating inclusive learning environments, and providing specialized support services for neurodivergent students. 
• Impact on Education: This shift in the number of neurodivergent students has significant implications for educators, schools, and higher education institutions, requiring them to adapt their teaching methods, curriculum, and support systems to better meet the needs of this diverse student population. 
• Beyond Identification: While identification is a crucial first step, it's essential to remember that neurodivergent students are not a monolithic group. Each individual's needs and strengths are unique, and educators need to move beyond simply identifying neurodivergence and towards understanding the specific needs of each student.” [iv]

For a full briefing paper on neurodiversity, click here.

END NOTES:
[i] Lumiere Children’s Therapy, Understanding Neurodiversity in Children’s Education: A Comprehensive Guide
[ii] Scott Coleman-Allan, Why neurodiversity is not a disability
[iii] Michelle Garnett and Tony Attwood, Moving Toward Inclusive Classrooms
[iv] Google AI, Why Do We See an Increase in the Number of Neurodivergent Students?

How to Help Kids Cope with ICE Deportation Raids During The Summer

Source: EdSource, Ian Kapsalis/ The Express

Summer can be a difficult time for kids as schools close down. But, have we thought that how this is especially true for those with undocumented family members?  This blog contains excerpts from How to help kids cope with ongoing ICE raids, deportations | Quick Guide written by Vani Sanganeria for EdSource. To view this original publication, click here.

“Fears remain unabated for both children of immigrants and their friends, as federal immigration agents in California continue to detain, arrest and deport residents, in what community members say has become an indefinite fixture of the Trump administration.” 

Vani Sanganeria explains:



• With school out for the summer, some students may no longer have access to crucial support and services available during the academic school year, as fear and anxiety rise in their communities from ongoing immigration raids.
• The absence of school-based services often leads to worsening mental health for students during the summer.
• During the summer, unstructured routine, social isolation and increased social media use can exacerbate feelings of sadness and fear. Also, children are much more likely to internalize traumatic events like raids on social media or outside of school, often in isolation and lacking the safe environment of a classroom to talk through their feelings about the day’s news.  
• Data indicate a spike in both substance use and feelings of sadness among adolescents during the summer, which worsens in part due to unstructured routine, increased isolation and increased social media use.

“Children are already seeing masked individuals with weapons coming into the communities, tackling people and taking them away and putting them into vehicles. We have to acknowledge that some very scary things are happening in all of our communities — by lying about the magnitude of this, we may be risking our trust with our children in the future.” – Ahmanise Sanati, school social worker in Los Angeles 

Source: www.pexels.com

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PARENTS
According to Marta Melendez, a social worker with LAUSD, families can prepare for scenarios like an ICE raid, detention or deportation by preemptively building their and their child’s mental health tool kit, similar to an emergency plan. 

“Families can take steps to support their child’s mental health and prepare for what experts are calling a child welfare and human rights crisis.”

• Research shows that even basic mindfulness interventions can mitigate the short- and long-term negative effects of stress and trauma, and these techniques, when taught bilingually, are especially effective for populations such as the Latino community. 
• Prioritize something that is a positive outlet for the child, whether they like to play sports, to write about their feelings, draw about their feelings, sing about their feelings, if they want to dance about their feelings — make sure that they have a way of processing all the emotions that they are experiencing.
• Talk through your child’s feelings.

“One way to validate a child who is afraid is by letting them know that their family will be ready for a worst-case scenario.” - Marta Melendez, a social worker with LAUSD.

• To create a sense of normalcy for children, Melendez said families should do their best to maintain healthy routines and hobbies during the summer, especially those that promote social connection with their peers.
• Prepare for emergencies. 
• Create a childcare plan.
• Find remote mental health support for your child. 
• Practice healthy coping skills as a family.

Previous LIAS Blogs on this topic can be viewed here. 

MORE ABOUT...

EdSource is California’s largest journalism organization focused on education. Access to a quality education is an important right of all children. EdSource believes that an informed, involved public is necessary to strengthen California’s education institutions, improve student success and build a better workforce.

 UPCOMING WEBINARS: 

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Source: www.pexels.com

By Sam Piha

“Donald Trump kicked off the campaign to abolish diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives during his first term. Now he's back in the Oval Office to finish the job. During an address Tuesday night before a joint session of Congress, the president claimed his administration had eliminated DEI. Just hours after he took the oath of office on Jan. 20, Trump began issuing executive orders to dismantle programs, put pressure on federal contractors to end “illegal DEI discrimination” and direct federal agencies to draw up lists of private companies that could be investigated for their DEI policies.” [i]

There is a lot of confusion around this attack on DEI. This blog seeks to clarify some of the misunderstandings about DEI, its history and the importance of DEI in youth programs. 

TERMS & DEFINITIONS

DEI: “This stands for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, is a framework that promotes fair treatment and full participation of all people, especially those who have historically been underrepresented or discriminated against, by fostering a respectful and inclusive environment.” [ii] 

DEI Hire: "’Diversity hire’, ‘equity hire’, or ‘DEI hire’, are disparaging and controversial labels for persons from underrepresented groups, which are, according to this label, assumed to be less qualified and have supposedly received preferential treatment due to DEI policies.” [iii] 

“The 'DEI hire' label was recently applied by President Trump in his comments on the tragic plane crash at Reagan National Airport. Trump claimed, without citing evidence, that DEI policies and programs mandated for air traffic controllers at the Federal Aviation Administration were partly to blame for the tragic plane and helicopter collision. Trump’s comments appear to have been a criticism of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) DEI policy of welcoming disabled persons to apply for FAA air traffic control positions.” [iv]

Diversity: Recognizing and valuing the unique characteristics of individuals, including race, ethnicity, gender, ability, socioeconomic status, and other differences. 

Equity: Ensuring that all youth have access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances. 

Executive Order: “An executive order is a signed, written, and published directive from the President of the United States that manages operations of the federal government. They are numbered consecutively, so executive orders may be referenced by their assigned number, or their topic. Executive orders are not legislation; they require no approval from Congress, and Congress cannot simply overturn them. Congress may pass legislation that might make it difficult, or even impossible, to carry out the order, such as removing funding. Only a sitting U.S. President may overturn an existing executive order by issuing another executive order to that effect.” [v] 

Inclusion: Creating a sense of belonging and making sure that all youth feel valued, respected, and empowered to participate fully in the program. 

Meritocracy: “Is the notion of a political system in which economic goods or political power are vested in individual people based on ability and talent, rather than wealth or social class. Advancement in such a system is based on performance, as measured through examination or demonstrated achievement.” [vi] 

Woke: “The definition of ‘woke’ changes depending on who you ask. The term has recently been used by some conservatives as an umbrella term for progressive values, often using it with negative connotations. However, the term was originally coined by progressive Black Americans and used in racial justice movements in the early to mid-1900s.” [vii]

THE HISTORY OF DEI


According to DiversityResources.com, “The history of DEI in the workplace has been marred by racial discrimination, making it difficult for everyone to feel included, as equality wasn’t always part of the equation. A significant turning point in the history of DEI came with the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which made discrimination in the hiring and promotion process illegal. This was the first of many steps toward creating a more equitable workplace. Following the Civil Rights Movement, the concepts of equality and inclusiveness gained traction and became central to the history of DEI. Advocates began promoting the idea that everyone deserves to be treated with the same respect and opportunities as others.” [viii]  

Below is a video produced by PBS News Hour on the history of diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in America. To view this video, click here.

Source: PBS News Hour

DEI IN YOUTH PROGRAMS 

In youth programs, DEI focuses on creating inclusive environments that value and celebrate diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, ensuring equitable access to opportunities and resources for all participants. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown of DEI in youth programs:

• “The program actively recruits and hires staff that reflects the community of the students served.
• The program states its explicit commitment to diversity and equity in its outreach materials and/or policies. 
• The program is aware of and seeks information and strategies to support all participant needs. 
• The program creates a welcoming environment by representing the diversity of the participants through program materials, displays, etc.  
• The program implements a plan that outreaches to all students at the school site. 
• The program celebrates diversity related to participants’ race, color, religion, sex, age, income level, national origin, physical ability, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity and expression. Staff participate in on-going diversity and sensitivity training. 
• Staff adapt activities to accommodate the physical and developmental abilities of all participants, and actively encourage their participation in the program. 
• Participants and staff are comfortable sharing, and are given opportunities to share, from their diverse experiences and backgrounds.” [ix] 

WHY DEI MATTERS IN YOUTH PROGRAMS

Diversity, Access and Equity is integral to afterschool programming. In fact, it is a quality standard for expanded learning programs in California. This standard reads, “The program creates an environment in which students experience values that embrace diversity and equity regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, income level, national origin, physical ability, sexual orientation and/or gender identity and expression. Diversity, access, and equity in action.” [x] 

Program Benefits
According to Google AI, program benefits of DEI include:

• “Promotes a positive and supportive environment: DEI initiatives help create a safe and inclusive space where youth feel comfortable being themselves and participating fully. 
• Enhances learning and development: Exposure to diverse perspectives and experiences can broaden horizons, foster empathy, and promote critical thinking skills. 
• Prepares youth for a diverse world: By learning to work with and appreciate people from different backgrounds, youth are better equipped to navigate a diverse and complex world. 
• Builds stronger communities: DEI in youth programs can help foster stronger relationships between youth, families, and communities. 
• Improves program effectiveness: When programs are inclusive and equitable, they are more likely to reach and engage a wider range of youth, leading to better outcomes. 

Examples of DEI in Youth Programs:

• Recruitment and Retention: Actively recruiting youth from diverse backgrounds and implementing strategies to ensure their retention in the program. 
• Curriculum and Activities: Ensuring that program activities and materials are inclusive and relevant to the diverse needs and interests of the youth. 
• Staff Training: Providing staff with training on DEI principles and best practices to help them create a more inclusive environment. 
• Parent/Guardian Involvement: Engaging parents and guardians in DEI initiatives to ensure that they are aware of the program's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. 
• Accessibility: Making sure that programs are accessible to youth with disabilities and other special needs. 
• Language Access: Providing language services to youth who are not proficient in the primary language of the program.” [xi]  

BE HEARD BY COMPANIES THAT HAVE BACKED AWAY FROM DEI

Some companies under pressure canceled DEI programs altogether to align themselves with the Trump administration. If you wish to express your disapproval or approval, these companies are shown in the chart below. If you wish to write them, you can find their addresses here.

Source: Yahoo Finance

For a full briefing paper on diversity, equity & inclusion, click here.

END NOTES:

[i] Jessica Guynn, DEI explained: What is DEI and why is it so divisive? What you need to know.
[ii] Google AI, What is DEI?
[iii] Wikipedia, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
[iv] Jessica Guynn, DEI explained: What is DEI and why is it so divisive? What you need to know.
[v] American Bar Association, What is an Executive Order?
[vi] Wikipedia, Meritocracy
[vii] Kiara Alfonseca, What does 'woke' mean and why are some conservatives using it?
[viii] Kendal Roney, The History of DEI
[ix] Unknown
[x] California Afterschool Network & The California Department of Education, Quality Standards for Expanded Learning in California
[xi] Google AI, DEI in Youth Programs