In this article, we’ll talk about how neurodiverse families can now find support on this new TV show.
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The first nationally recognized college or university for students with learning difficulties is located in Central Florida. More than three decades ago, folks with learning difficulties like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia were given a place to study that was designed with them in mind.
While at work, Beacon College’s Associate Vice President of Communications and Engagement, Darryl Owens pondered how to broaden the college’s appeal.
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Introducing a television show is one strategy we could employ to tackle this task. Most social media users are heavy video consumers and staunch believers in all things digital. Therefore, it would be appropriate for a television program.
This inspired the 2020 documentary “A World of Difference: Exploring Neurodiversity.” Season three of this news magazine-style show premieres in September. It features three segments designed to inform and inspire the loved ones of neurodiverse persons about neurodiversity and its related themes.
“A World Of Difference”
Family Matters, Ask an Expert, and Difference Makers make up the show’s straightforward three-part format for each episode of “A World of Difference.” In the episode’s Family Matters segment, we learn about a neurodiverse family navigating a situation related to the episode’s theme, such as supporting neurodiverse youth in developing social skills.
Next, a panel of professionals discusses the episode’s topic in further depth and offers concrete advice. In the last segment, “Difference Makers,” an award is given to a renowned neurodivergent person or an advocate for neurodiversity.
Because he was not seeing anything like it in the media, they opted to employ this structure. Although he acknowledges there has been progress in including neurodiverse performers or characters in scripted programming, he says there was nothing that addressed the day-to-day struggles faced by families with neurodiverse members.
Queries like, “How can I help my child with autism create and maintain friendships?” or “How can I help my child with ADHD get through his after-school schoolwork when his medicine has worn off?” There was a need for practical advice for these families. Moreover, the television landscape was notably empty. And we felt that’s where ‘A World of Difference’ could really make a difference.
In its first two seasons, the show addressed a wide range of subjects, providing useful guidance and timely information. The third season maintains the trend of broadening its scope to address topics such as neurodiversity among persons of color and how they are represented in popular culture.
As a parent of a neurodivergent child, it is helpful to have a resource like “A World of Difference” at your disposal. In particular, if the data is provided in a concise and straightforward fashion, many caregivers would devour it. More importantly, the show gives families with neurodiverse children a sense of belonging.
People with neurological differences must realize that they are not alone. It’s important for parents to realize that they’re not the only ones coping with these issues in their homes. They must be exposed to neurodiverse persons who are succeeding despite their learning disabilities. Even in the worst of times, when they are facing the toughest of difficulties, the parents can take heart from this.
True Representations of Families with Neurodiversity
While “A World of Difference” does a great service by shedding light on neurodiversity challenges, it also provides the rare thrill of seeing oneself reflected in the media. A more honest and realistic portrayal of autistic persons can make a huge difference in a world where they have been largely ignored or misrepresented by the media.
Children on the autism spectrum and their families benefit greatly from accurate portrayals of the community because it allows them to imagine themselves and their place in the world. Understanding neurodiversity helps neurotypical people be more accepting and hospitable to persons of all neurological backgrounds in their personal relationships, at work, and in their communities. And that’s what leads to genuine relationships with other people, which in turn benefits everyone.
It is just as vital for adults who are neurodivergent to have a film character they can relate to and connect with as it is for children; however, adults who are neurodivergent are rarely given this chance. Young people benefit from seeing neurodiverse adults portrayed because it encourages them to think about themselves in the long run and not just in terms of their childhood.
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