{"id":924,"date":"2026-09-02T23:23:50","date_gmt":"2026-09-02T23:23:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/symalnippers.wpenginepowered.com\/?page_id=924"},"modified":"2026-09-08T00:44:42","modified_gmt":"2026-09-08T00:44:42","slug":"inclusion-diversity","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/symalnippers.com.au\/?page_id=924","title":{"rendered":"Inclusion &#038; Diversity"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-page\" data-elementor-id=\"924\" class=\"elementor elementor-924\" data-elementor-post-type=\"page\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-5fb7010 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"5fb7010\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;gradient&quot;,&quot;shape_divider_bottom&quot;:&quot;lqd-custom-shape-12&quot;}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-shape elementor-shape-bottom\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-negative=\"false\">\n\t\t\t<svg class=\"lqd-custom-shape\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" preserveAspectRatio=\"none\"  viewBox=\"0 0 1440 150\">\n    <path class=\"elementor-shape-fill\" d=\"M 0 26.1978 C 275.76 83.8152 430.707 65.0509 716.279 25.6386 C 930.422 -3.86123 1210.32 -3.98357 1439 9.18045 C 2072.34 45.9691 2201.93 62.4429 2560 26.198 V 172.199 L 0 172.199 V 26.1978 Z\">\n        <animate repeatCount=\"indefinite\" fill=\"freeze\" attributeName=\"d\" dur=\"10s\" values=\"M0 25.9086C277 84.5821 433 65.736 720 25.9086C934.818 -3.9019 1214.06 -5.23669 1442 8.06597C2079 45.2421 2208 63.5007 2560 25.9088V171.91L0 171.91V25.9086Z; M0 86.3149C316 86.315 444 159.155 884 51.1554C1324 -56.8446 1320.29 34.1214 1538 70.4063C1814 116.407 2156 188.408 2560 86.315V232.317L0 232.316V86.3149Z; M0 53.6584C158 11.0001 213 0 363 0C513 0 855.555 115.001 1154 115.001C1440 115.001 1626 -38.0004 2560 53.6585V199.66L0 199.66V53.6584Z; M0 25.9086C277 84.5821 433 65.736 720 25.9086C934.818 -3.9019 1214.06 -5.23669 1442 8.06597C2079 45.2421 2208 63.5007 2560 25.9088V171.91L0 171.91V25.9086Z\">\n        <\/animate>\n    <\/path>\n<\/svg>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-ba3b91d\" data-id=\"ba3b91d\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-inner-section elementor-element elementor-element-de4b000 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"de4b000\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-inner-column elementor-element elementor-element-7458fab\" data-id=\"7458fab\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9e4d53f elementor-widget elementor-widget-hub_fancy_heading\" data-id=\"9e4d53f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"hub_fancy_heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div id=\"ld-fancy-heading-6aa52629dddd6\" class=\"ld-fancy-heading pos-rel\">\n\t\t\t<h1 class=\"ld-fh-element d-inline-block pos-rel  elementor-heading-title lqd-highlight-classic lqd-highlight-grow-left h1\"  > For Volunteers<\/h1>\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e42acec elementor-widget elementor-widget-ld_button\" data-id=\"e42acec\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"ld_button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\tclass=\"elementor-button btn btn-naked btn-icon-block btn-no-label\" data-localscroll=\"1\" data-localscroll-options=\"{&quot;scrollBelowSection&quot;:true}\" href=\"#\"\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"btn-icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<i aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"lqd-icn-ess icon-ion-ios-arrow-down\"><\/i>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-42ce9ac elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"42ce9ac\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-b03c14b\" data-id=\"b03c14b\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8f2525b elementor-widget elementor-widget-hub_fancy_heading\" data-id=\"8f2525b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"hub_fancy_heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div id=\"ld-fancy-heading-6aa52629dfbfb\" class=\"ld-fancy-heading pos-rel\">\n\t\t\t<h2 class=\"ld-fh-element d-inline-block pos-rel  elementor-heading-title lqd-highlight-classic lqd-highlight-grow-left h2\"  > Understanding Neurodiversity<\/h2>\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-inner-section elementor-element elementor-element-47d087a elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"47d087a\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-50 elementor-inner-column elementor-element elementor-element-57a1e29\" data-id=\"57a1e29\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c312769 elementor-widget__width-initial elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"c312769\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Neurodivergence refers to the natural diversity in how people\u2019s brains function. It encompasses a range of developmental differences including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit\/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Dyslexia, Down Syndrome, and others. Neurodivergent children may experience the world differently \u2014 particularly in areas like communication, sensory processing, behaviour, and how they learn.<\/p><p>At Surf Life Saving Queensland, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to enjoy the beach, learn lifesaving skills, and be part of a club community. Many neurodivergent children thrive in Nippers with the right support. That support doesn\u2019t need to be complicated \u2014 it starts with understanding, patience, and a willingness to adapt.<\/p><p>This page is designed to give Age Managers, parents, and club volunteers practical guidance on how to create an inclusive, safe, and welcoming environment for neurodivergent children in Junior Activities.<\/p><p>It is informed by SLSQ\u2019s Guidelines: Recognise and Support Neurodivergent People and aligns with our\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lifesaving.com.au\/diversity-equity-inclusion\">Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategy 2024\u20132027<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lifesaving.com.au\/diversity-equity-inclusion\">Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2024\u20132027<\/a>.<\/p><p><strong>A note on language<\/strong><\/p><p>SLSQ uses person-first language (for example, \u201ca child with autism\u201d rather than \u201can autistic child\u201d). However, we recognise that not everyone prefers this approach \u2014 some people use identity-first language and that is equally valid. Wherever possible, ask the person or their parent how they prefer to be described.<\/p><p>If you make a mistake, acknowledge it and move on. The important thing is that the conversation happens with respect.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-50 elementor-inner-column elementor-element elementor-element-a2b2b72\" data-id=\"a2b2b72\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1909df8 elementor-widget__width-auto elementor-absolute elementor-widget elementor-widget-ld_fancy_image\" data-id=\"1909df8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_position&quot;:&quot;absolute&quot;}\" data-widget_type=\"ld_fancy_image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"lqd-imggrp-single d-block pos-rel \">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"lqd-imggrp-img-container d-inline-flex pos-rel align-items-center justify-content-center \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figure class=\"w-100 pos-rel\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f08b19d elementor-widget__width-initial elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"f08b19d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"863\" src=\"https:\/\/symalnippers.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Nipper3.png\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-668\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/symalnippers.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Nipper3.png 768w, https:\/\/symalnippers.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Nipper3-267x300.png 267w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-inner-section elementor-element elementor-element-7e56ef0 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"7e56ef0\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-inner-column elementor-element elementor-element-15e16d3\" data-id=\"15e16d3\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-10d1441 elementor-widget__width-auto elementor-absolute elementor-widget elementor-widget-ld_fancy_image\" data-id=\"10d1441\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_position&quot;:&quot;absolute&quot;}\" data-widget_type=\"ld_fancy_image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"lqd-imggrp-single d-block pos-rel \">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"lqd-imggrp-img-container d-inline-flex pos-rel align-items-center justify-content-center \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figure class=\"w-100 pos-rel\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2c8b94b elementor-widget elementor-widget-hub_fancy_heading\" data-id=\"2c8b94b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"hub_fancy_heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div id=\"ld-fancy-heading-6aa52629e2227\" class=\"ld-fancy-heading pos-rel\">\n\t\t\t<h2 class=\"ld-fh-element d-inline-block pos-rel  elementor-heading-title lqd-highlight-classic lqd-highlight-grow-left h2\"  > What you might notice on the beach<\/h2>\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6113b94 elementor-widget__width-initial elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"6113b94\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"fl-row fl-row-full-width fl-row-bg-photo fl-node-3gpij1ytqw6d fl-row-default-height fl-row-align-center\" data-node=\"3gpij1ytqw6d\"><div class=\"fl-row-content-wrap\"><div class=\"fl-row-content fl-row-fixed-width fl-node-content\"><div class=\"fl-col-group fl-node-mfj5739v2d6w\" data-node=\"mfj5739v2d6w\"><div class=\"fl-col fl-node-dj0l1ymtp8nb fl-col-bg-color\" data-node=\"dj0l1ymtp8nb\"><div class=\"fl-col-content fl-node-content\"><div class=\"fl-module fl-module-rich-text fl-rich-text fl-node-x5ovz4n03era\" data-node=\"x5ovz4n03era\"><p>Neurodivergent children may present differently in a beach environment. Here are some things you might observe \u2014 and what they could mean.<\/p><p><strong>Social interaction and communication<\/strong><\/p><ul><li>May find it difficult to start or maintain conversations with other children<\/li><li>May not respond to their name being called, even though they can hear you<\/li><li>May use non-verbal communication such as gestures rather than words<\/li><li>May struggle to understand social cues like body language, tone of voice, or the unspoken rules of group play<\/li><li>May appear withdrawn or prefer to be on the edges of the group<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Sensory processing<\/strong><\/p><ul><li>The beach is a highly sensory environment \u2014 bright sun, loud waves, sand texture, wind, salt water, crowds. Some children may be overwhelmed by this<\/li><li>May cover their ears during whistles, group calls, or when the surf is loud<\/li><li>May dislike the texture of sand, sunscreen, or wet clothing<\/li><li>May seek out sensory input through excessive running, spinning, jumping, or crashing into things<\/li><li>May become distressed during transitions between activities, especially if they\u2019re unexpected<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Behaviour and routines<\/strong><\/p><ul><li>May have a strong preference for routine and find sudden changes difficult<\/li><li>May exhibit repetitive movements such as hand-flapping, rocking, or repeating words and phrases<\/li><li>May find it challenging to wait, take turns, or follow multi-step instructions<\/li><li>May have difficulty with impulse control, especially in an exciting or stimulating environment<\/li><\/ul><p>None of these behaviours are \u201cbad\u201d or deliberate. They are how the child is experiencing the environment. Your job is not to change the child \u2014 it\u2019s to adjust the environment and your approach so they can participate safely and enjoyably.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fl-row fl-row-fixed-width fl-row-bg-none fl-node-jq4sebp8mxit fl-row-default-height fl-row-align-center\" data-node=\"jq4sebp8mxit\"><div class=\"fl-row-content-wrap\"><div class=\"fl-row-content fl-row-fixed-width fl-node-content\"><div class=\"fl-col-group fl-node-e0j2pci8fv54\" data-node=\"e0j2pci8fv54\"><div class=\"fl-col fl-node-v0dewzjiox1h fl-col-bg-color fl-col-has-cols\" data-node=\"v0dewzjiox1h\"><div class=\"fl-col-content fl-node-content\"><div class=\"fl-module fl-module-rich-text fl-rich-text fl-node-pty096izgkfw\" data-node=\"pty096izgkfw\">\u00a0<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-inner-section elementor-element elementor-element-e2f21de elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"e2f21de\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-background-overlay\"><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-inner-column elementor-element elementor-element-4397c3c\" data-id=\"4397c3c\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-56a90dc elementor-widget__width-auto elementor-absolute elementor-widget elementor-widget-ld_fancy_image\" data-id=\"56a90dc\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_position&quot;:&quot;absolute&quot;}\" data-widget_type=\"ld_fancy_image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"lqd-imggrp-single d-block pos-rel \">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"lqd-imggrp-img-container d-inline-flex pos-rel align-items-center justify-content-center \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figure class=\"w-100 pos-rel\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-009d44d elementor-widget elementor-widget-hub_fancy_heading\" data-id=\"009d44d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"hub_fancy_heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div id=\"ld-fancy-heading-6aa52629e3eef\" class=\"ld-fancy-heading pos-rel\">\n\t\t\t<h2 class=\"ld-fh-element d-inline-block pos-rel  elementor-heading-title lqd-highlight-classic lqd-highlight-grow-left h2\"  > Practical Tips for Age Managers<\/h2>\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c239d4e elementor-widget__width-initial elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"c239d4e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"fl-row fl-row-full-width fl-row-bg-photo fl-node-3gpij1ytqw6d fl-row-default-height fl-row-align-center\" data-node=\"3gpij1ytqw6d\"><div class=\"fl-row-content-wrap\"><div class=\"fl-row-content fl-row-fixed-width fl-node-content\"><div class=\"fl-col-group fl-node-mfj5739v2d6w\" data-node=\"mfj5739v2d6w\"><div class=\"fl-col fl-node-dj0l1ymtp8nb fl-col-bg-color\" data-node=\"dj0l1ymtp8nb\"><div class=\"fl-col-content fl-node-content\"><div class=\"fl-module fl-module-rich-text fl-rich-text fl-node-x5ovz4n03era\" data-node=\"x5ovz4n03era\"><p><strong>Before the season starts<\/strong><\/p><ul><li><strong>Talk to the parent or carer.\u00a0<\/strong>Ask them what works, what doesn\u2019t, and what you should know. Parents of neurodivergent children are usually the best source of practical advice. Questions like \u201cWhat\u2019s the best way for me to support your child?\u201d and \u201cIs there anything specific that helps them feel comfortable?\u201d go a long way.<\/li><li><strong>Plan for consistency.\u00a0<\/strong>Try to run your sessions at the same time, in the same area of the beach, with a predictable structure each week. Routine reduces anxiety.<\/li><li><strong>Share the plan.\u00a0<\/strong>If possible, let the parent know the session plan in advance so they can prepare their child for what\u2019s coming.<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>During sessions<\/strong><\/p><ul><li><strong>Use clear, simple language.\u00a0<\/strong>Give one instruction at a time. Demonstrate rather than explain where possible. Avoid sarcasm, idioms, or abstract language that might be taken literally.<\/li><li><strong>Give warnings before transitions.\u00a0<\/strong>&#8220;In five minutes, we\u2019re going to move to the water.&#8221; Use countdowns, visual cues, or a timer if it helps.<\/li><li><strong>Offer choices.\u00a0<\/strong>&#8220;Would you like to do the water activity or the sand activity?&#8221; This gives the child a sense of control and reduces resistance.<\/li><li><strong>Provide a quiet space.\u00a0<\/strong>Identify a spot near the tent or away from the main group where a child can take a break if things become overwhelming. Let the child know it\u2019s there and that it\u2019s okay to use it.<\/li><li><strong>Use positive reinforcement.\u00a0<\/strong>Notice and name what\u2019s going well: \u201cGreat job staying with the group during that game.\u201d Focus on effort and participation, not just outcomes.<\/li><li><strong>Be flexible with participation.\u00a0<\/strong>If a child doesn\u2019t want to do a particular activity, that\u2019s okay. Offer an alternative or let them observe. Forcing participation increases anxiety and reduces trust.<\/li><li><strong>Keep an eye on sensory overload.\u00a0<\/strong>If a child covers their ears, moves away from the group, becomes very still, or suddenly becomes distressed, they may be experiencing sensory overload. Gently guide them to a calmer space and give them time.<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>With the broader group<\/strong><\/p><ul><li><strong>Foster empathy among peers.\u00a0<\/strong>You don\u2019t need to single anyone out, but simple messages help: \u201cSometimes we all need a bit of extra space or quiet time. Let\u2019s be kind and help each other feel comfortable.\u201d<\/li><li><strong>Model inclusive behaviour.\u00a0<\/strong>If you treat a neurodivergent child with patience and respect, the other children will follow your lead.<\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section data-custom-animations=\"true\" data-ca-options=\"{&quot;addChildTimelines&quot;:false,&quot;trigger&quot;:&quot;firstChild&quot;,&quot;animationTarget&quot;:&quot;:scope &gt; .elementor-container &gt; .elementor-column&quot;,&quot;ease&quot;:[&quot;power4.out&quot;],&quot;initValues&quot;:{&quot;y&quot;:&quot;80px&quot;,&quot;scaleX&quot;:0.9,&quot;scaleY&quot;:0.9,&quot;rotationX&quot;:-35,&quot;opacity&quot;:0,&quot;transformOrigin&quot;:&quot;50% 50% 0px&quot;},&quot;animations&quot;:{&quot;y&quot;:&quot;0px&quot;,&quot;scaleX&quot;:1,&quot;scaleY&quot;:1,&quot;rotationX&quot;:0,&quot;opacity&quot;:1,&quot;transformOrigin&quot;:&quot;50% 50% 0px&quot;}}\" class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-7cbb038 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"7cbb038\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div data-custom-animations=\"true\" data-ca-options=\"{&quot;addChildTimelines&quot;:false,&quot;trigger&quot;:&quot;firstChild&quot;,&quot;animationTarget&quot;:&quot;:scope &gt; .elementor-widget-wrap &gt; .elementor-element &gt; .elementor-widget-container, :scope &gt; .elementor-widget-wrap &gt; .elementor-section &gt; .elementor-container &gt; .elementor-column &gt; .elementor-widget-wrap &gt; .elementor-element:not(.lqd-el-has-inner-anim) &gt; .elementor-widget-container, :scope &gt; .elementor-widget-wrap &gt; .elementor-widget-hub_fancy_heading .lqd-split-lines .lqd-lines .split-inner, :scope &gt; .elementor-widget-wrap &gt; .elementor-widget-hub_fancy_heading .lqd-split-words .lqd-words .split-inner, :scope &gt; .elementor-widget-wrap &gt; .elementor-widget-hub_fancy_heading .lqd-split-chars .lqd-chars .split-inner, :scope &gt; .elementor-widget-wrap &gt; .elementor-widget-ld_custom_menu .lqd-fancy-menu &gt; ul &gt; li&quot;,&quot;ease&quot;:[&quot;power4.out&quot;],&quot;initValues&quot;:{&quot;y&quot;:&quot;80px&quot;,&quot;scaleX&quot;:0.9,&quot;scaleY&quot;:0.9,&quot;rotationX&quot;:-35,&quot;opacity&quot;:0,&quot;transformOrigin&quot;:&quot;50% 50% 0px&quot;},&quot;animations&quot;:{&quot;y&quot;:&quot;0px&quot;,&quot;scaleX&quot;:1,&quot;scaleY&quot;:1,&quot;rotationX&quot;:0,&quot;opacity&quot;:1,&quot;transformOrigin&quot;:&quot;50% 50% 0px&quot;}}\" class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-3bbfdb6\" data-id=\"3bbfdb6\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-909c4f8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-hub_fancy_heading\" data-id=\"909c4f8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"hub_fancy_heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div id=\"ld-fancy-heading-6aa52629e5084\" class=\"ld-fancy-heading pos-rel\">\n\t\t\t<h2 class=\"ld-fh-element d-inline-block pos-rel  elementor-heading-title lqd-highlight-classic lqd-highlight-grow-left h2\"  > On Beach Scenarios<\/h2>\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3ee233f elementor-widget elementor-widget-ld_accordion\" data-id=\"3ee233f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"ld_accordion.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"accordion accordion-sm\" id=\"accordion-6aa52629e5d43\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-item panel  active\">\n\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-heading\" id=\"heading-6591\">\n\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"accordion-title  tabindex=\"-1\">\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\"\n                    tabindex=\"0\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-parent=\"#accordion-6aa52629e5d43\" data-bs-parent=\"#accordion-6aa52629e5d43\" href=\"#collapse-6591\" data-target=\"#collapse-6591\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-6591\"\n\t\t\t\t\taria-expanded=\"true\" aria-controls=\"collapse-6591\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"accordion-title-txt\">A child covers their ears and moves away<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"accordion-expander\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t<div id=\"collapse-6591\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse  show\" data-bs-parent=\"#accordion-6aa52629e5d43\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-6591\">\n\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>What\u2019s happening:\u00a0<\/strong>The beach environment is noisy \u2014 waves, wind, other groups, whistles. The child may be experiencing auditory sensory overload.<\/p><p><strong>What to do:\u00a0<\/strong>Don\u2019t call them back into the group loudly. Walk over calmly and crouch to their level. Speak quietly: \u201cHey, it\u2019s a bit loud today, isn\u2019t it? Would you like to sit over here where it\u2019s quieter while I finish talking to the group?\u201d Let their parent know. After the briefing, go to the child individually and explain what\u2019s happening next using simple language.<\/p><p><strong><em>Remember:\u00a0<\/em><\/strong><em>This child isn\u2019t being difficult. They\u2019re managing an overwhelming environment the best way they know how.<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-item panel \">\n\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-heading\" id=\"heading-6592\">\n\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"accordion-title  tabindex=\"-1\">\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"collapsed\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\"\n                    tabindex=\"0\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-parent=\"#accordion-6aa52629e5d43\" data-bs-parent=\"#accordion-6aa52629e5d43\" href=\"#collapse-6592\" data-target=\"#collapse-6592\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-6592\"\n\t\t\t\t\taria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-6592\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"accordion-title-txt\">A child runs away from the group repeatedly<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"accordion-expander\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t<div id=\"collapse-6592\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse \" data-bs-parent=\"#accordion-6aa52629e5d43\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-6592\">\n\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>What\u2019s happening:\u00a0<\/strong>This might be excitement, sensory-seeking behaviour, anxiety, or difficulty understanding the group boundaries. On a beach, this is also a safety concern.<\/p><p><strong>What to do:\u00a0<\/strong>First, ensure the child is safe. Ask their parent to stay close and help. Speak to the parent privately: \u201cI noticed [name] is moving away from the group quite a bit. Can you help me understand what might be going on so we can support them?\u201d Work with the parent on a plan \u2014 perhaps a designated \u201crunning space,\u201d a visual boundary marker, or a buddy system. If the behaviour continues and creates a genuine safety risk, talk to your JAC about additional support.<\/p><p><strong><em>Remember:\u00a0<\/em><\/strong><em>The goal is to find a way for the child to participate safely \u2014 not to exclude them.<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-item panel \">\n\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-heading\" id=\"heading-6593\">\n\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"accordion-title  tabindex=\"-1\">\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"collapsed\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\"\n                    tabindex=\"0\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-parent=\"#accordion-6aa52629e5d43\" data-bs-parent=\"#accordion-6aa52629e5d43\" href=\"#collapse-6593\" data-target=\"#collapse-6593\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-6593\"\n\t\t\t\t\taria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-6593\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"accordion-title-txt\">A child becomes very distressed during a water activity<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"accordion-expander\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t<div id=\"collapse-6593\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse \" data-bs-parent=\"#accordion-6aa52629e5d43\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-6593\">\n\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>What\u2019s happening:\u00a0<\/strong>Water can be unpredictable and overwhelming for sensory-sensitive children. The combination of cold, waves, salt, sand in clothing, and noise can trigger significant distress.<\/p><p><strong>What to do:\u00a0<\/strong>Remove the child from the water calmly and immediately. Don\u2019t minimise their feelings (\u201cyou\u2019re fine\u201d). Instead: \u201cI can see you\u2019re upset. Let\u2019s go somewhere calm.\u201d Take them to a quiet area. Let their parent take over. Once they\u2019ve settled, talk to the parent about whether a gradual approach might work next time \u2014 feet in the water first, then ankles, then knees \u2014 at the child\u2019s pace over several weeks.<\/p><p><strong><em>Remember:\u00a0<\/em><\/strong><em>Forcing a distressed child back into the water will damage trust and make it harder next time, not easier.<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-item panel \">\n\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-heading\" id=\"heading-6594\">\n\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"accordion-title  tabindex=\"-1\">\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"collapsed\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\"\n                    tabindex=\"0\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-parent=\"#accordion-6aa52629e5d43\" data-bs-parent=\"#accordion-6aa52629e5d43\" href=\"#collapse-6594\" data-target=\"#collapse-6594\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-6594\"\n\t\t\t\t\taria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-6594\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"accordion-title-txt\">Another parent asks \"what's wrong\" with the child<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"accordion-expander\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t<div id=\"collapse-6594\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse \" data-bs-parent=\"#accordion-6aa52629e5d43\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-6594\">\n\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>What\u2019s happening:\u00a0<\/strong>Other parents may notice a neurodivergent child behaving differently and ask questions. This is a moment that matters.<\/p><p><strong>What to do:\u00a0<\/strong>Keep it simple and respectful. You do not need to share any details about the child\u2019s diagnosis \u2014 that is confidential. A good response: \u201cEvery child in our group is different, and we adjust how we do things so everyone can participate safely and enjoy Nippers. That\u2019s what being a club is about.\u201d If the parent pushes further, you can add: \u201cI\u2019m not able to discuss individual children, but I appreciate you asking.\u201d<\/p><p><strong><em>Remember:\u00a0<\/em><\/strong><em>How you respond in this moment sets the tone for inclusion across your whole group. The other children and parents are watching.<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-item panel \">\n\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-heading\" id=\"heading-6595\">\n\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"accordion-title  tabindex=\"-1\">\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"collapsed\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\"\n                    tabindex=\"0\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-parent=\"#accordion-6aa52629e5d43\" data-bs-parent=\"#accordion-6aa52629e5d43\" href=\"#collapse-6595\" data-target=\"#collapse-6595\" data-bs-target=\"#collapse-6595\"\n\t\t\t\t\taria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse-6595\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"accordion-title-txt\">A child refuses to participate in anything and sits alone every week<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"accordion-expander\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t<div id=\"collapse-6595\" class=\"accordion-collapse collapse \" data-bs-parent=\"#accordion-6aa52629e5d43\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-6595\">\n\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"accordion-content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>What\u2019s happening:\u00a0<\/strong>This child might be overwhelmed, anxious, or not yet feeling safe enough to join in. Some neurodivergent children need significantly more time to warm up to new environments and people.<\/p><p><strong>What to do:\u00a0<\/strong>Don\u2019t pressure them. Check in gently each week: \u201cHi [name], good to see you. We\u2019re going to play [game] today. You\u2019re welcome to join us when you\u2019re ready, or you can watch from here.\u201d Talk to their parent about whether there are specific activities or conditions that might help. Consider offering a small, low-pressure role: holding the stopwatch, helping carry equipment, being the \u201cumpire\u201d of a game. Sometimes participation starts from the edges.<\/p><p><strong><em>Remember:\u00a0<\/em><\/strong><em>A child who comes back every week \u2014 even if they sit on the sidelines \u2014 is choosing to be there. That counts.<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-292d632 elementor-widget-divider--view-line elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"292d632\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-divider\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-divider-separator\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-921cf20 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"921cf20\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e2d296f elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"e2d296f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"336\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;charset=utf-8,%3Csvg xmlns%3D&apos;http%3A%2F%2Fwww.w3.org%2F2000%2Fsvg&apos; viewBox%3D&apos;0 0 1024 441&apos;%2F%3E\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-1079 ld-lazyload\" alt=\"\" data-src=\"https:\/\/symalnippers.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/NOBL2362-1024x441.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/symalnippers.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/NOBL2362-1024x441.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/symalnippers.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/NOBL2362-300x129.jpg 300w, https:\/\/symalnippers.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/NOBL2362-1536x661.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/symalnippers.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/NOBL2362-2048x882.jpg 2048w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" data-aspect=\"2.32199546485\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-29d277d e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"29d277d\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-355a3dd elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"355a3dd\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Communicating with Parents\u200b<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-bbe3ef5 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"bbe3ef5\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4f88d43 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"4f88d43\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Parents of neurodivergent children often carry a lot \u2014 they may have had difficult experiences with other sporting programs, schools, or community activities. Your first conversation sets the tone for the whole season.<\/p><p><strong>When a parent tells you their child is neurodivergent<\/strong><\/p><p>Thank them for telling you. This takes courage, and many parents hesitate because they\u2019re worried about judgement. Respond with warmth: \u201cThanks for sharing that with me. I want [name] to have a great time at Nippers, so the more I understand, the better I can support them.\u201d<\/p><p>Then ask practical questions rather than clinical ones. You don\u2019t need to know the child\u2019s diagnosis in detail \u2014 you need to know what works.<\/p><ul><li>\u201cWhat does a good day look like for [name]?\u201d<\/li><li>\u201cIs there anything that tends to overwhelm or upset them?\u201d<\/li><li>\u201cAre there any strategies that work well at home or school that I could try here?\u201d<\/li><li>\u201cHow would you like me to communicate with you during the season \u2014 is a quick chat each week okay, or would you prefer a message?\u201d<\/li><li>\u201cIs there anything you\u2019d like me not to do?\u201d<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Ongoing communication<\/strong><\/p><p>Check in with the parent regularly \u2014 not just when there\u2019s a problem. Share positive moments: \u201c[Name] had a great session today \u2014 they joined the relay for the first time.\u201d This builds trust and shows the parent that their child is seen and valued, not just managed.<\/p><p>If challenges arise, frame them as collaborative problem-solving, not complaints: \u201cI noticed [name] found the transition to the water activity difficult today. Have you seen that before? Is there anything we could try differently next week?\u201d<\/p><p><strong>Confidentiality<\/strong><\/p><p>Any information a parent shares about their child\u2019s neurodivergence is confidential. Only share it with people who are directly involved in supporting the child at the club \u2014 your JAC, your Water Safety Supervisor, or another Age Manager who works with the group. Always let the parent know who you\u2019ve spoken to and why.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>For Volunteers Understanding Neurodiversity Neurodivergence refers to the natural diversity in how people\u2019s brains function. It encompasses a range of developmental differences including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit\/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Dyslexia, Down Syndrome, and others. Neurodivergent children may experience the world differently \u2014 particularly in areas like communication, sensory processing, behaviour, and how they learn. [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-924","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/symalnippers.com.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/924","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/symalnippers.com.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/symalnippers.com.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/symalnippers.com.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/symalnippers.com.au\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=924"}],"version-history":[{"count":25,"href":"https:\/\/symalnippers.com.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/924\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1094,"href":"https:\/\/symalnippers.com.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/924\/revisions\/1094"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/symalnippers.com.au\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=924"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}