THESE CARDS ARE AMAZING!!! A must have for Neuro Affirming Schools, Therapists and at home!! They are truly fantastic for affirming exploration of autistic and ADHD identity. WHAT IS ND ME? ND me is a deck of 60 cards describing characteristics of autism and ADHD in simple, positive language. The text is clear and direct, and each card is illustrated to assist with communication and shared understanding. The ND me cards were designed by a neurodivergent psychologist, to enable exploration of autism and ADHD traits and characteristics to be tailored to each individual. WHO IS IT FOR? The ND me cards help individuals to build a positive sense of neurodivergent (ND) identity, and to overcome negative self-beliefs (e.g. “There is something wrong with me.”). After using the cards, autistic and ADHD individuals feel seen and understood, and know that they are not alone. The cards help others (family, friends, support providers) to understand what it’s like to be neurodivergent, and how to support the ND people in their lives. ND me can be used with all ages (as a clinical psychologist, the youngest age I have used them with is eight). They can be used by adults, parents and families, therapists, assessors, teachers, and anyone who wants to better understand and support the neurodivergent people in their lives. They are a great tool for classrooms, workplaces and other settings within the community. HOW DO I USE IT? In a therapy setting, the ND me cards can be used to screen for and explore neurodivergent traits, to build rapport and communication, and to improve self-understanding and self-awareness. I often spread them out on the floor and ask the client to choose the ones most relevant to them, or to create a 'yes' and 'no' pile. Chosen cards can then be explored and discussed using a neurodiversity-affirming approach. ND me is ideal for helping parents and family members to understand the lived experience of their loved one and can lead to many ‘aha!’ moments and changes in family dynamics. For families, the ND me cards can be used to increase understanding of what autism means for a child, parent, or spouse. They can be used as described above, or in any other creative way you choose! Exploring how each person is similar yet different often leads to connection and some humorous moments, but also aids understanding of challenges and required supports. For schools, the ND me cards can be used to educate at the classroom or whole-of-school level, while also providing valuable insights into individual students, their strengths, interests, and support needs. Use them to develop individual learning plans that are truly tailored to each student. They also provide amazing conversation and reflection points for staff development days, enhancing shared understanding and consistency of autism and ADHD supports provided throughout the school environment, and helping parents to feel that your school understands their child. "I honestly could not recommend these enough as a wonderful conversation starter.... my 9 year old and I had an amazing time exploring these cards, connecting and identifying some of our challenges and strengths and discussing them. We also had a great laugh together, it was a great bonding opportunity." -Parent
