How to Succeed Differently
We know that supporting neurodiverse tamariki, especially those with FASD or similar neurodevelopmental needs, can sometimes feel tricky. Whether it's challenges with memory, focus, planning, or social connections, it can be hard to know what’s going on and what to do next.
Firstly...
Tamariki do well when they can. But when parts of the brain are developing differently—like attention, memory, executive functioning, or sensory processing—what looks like “bad behaviour” is often a sign that something else is going on.
This resource breaks it down by brain domain—so instead of asking “why are they doing that?” you can start thinking “what’s going on underneath?” It’s about shifting our lens from behaviour to support.
What can
we do?
Here are just a few simple things that can make a real difference:
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Offer short breaks and movement between tasks
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Use one clear instruction at a time
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Connect ideas to things that interest them
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Focus on effort and progress, not just outcomes
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Adapt the environment—think about light, noise, textures
These are strategies that work in the classroom, at home, and everywhere in between.
Check out our downloadable PDF here that takes you through the Brain Domains and the associated challenges neurodiverse tamariki may face.
And to add to this...
We also love this podcast Anna recorded with Karena Findlay from Succeed Differently which explores how we can support FASD tamariki
We'd like to say ngā mihi nui
To Karena Findlay who collaborated on this acticle with us. Karena is a deeply experienced social worker and facilitator who brings insight, warmth, and real-deal understanding to her work supporting neurodiverse tamariki and those who care for them. Together, we’ve created a practical, easy-to-use PDF resource that takes you through key brain domains, the challenges many neurodiverse tamariki face, and simple, effective strategies you can use at school or at home.
