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BOOK

A Different Way to Learn Neurodiversity and Self-Directed Education

A Different Way to Learn

‘If you are a parent worrying whether self-directed education will work for your child, because you have been told that they have special needs which can only be met in the school system - think again’

Neurodivergent children experience and interact with the world differently to many of their peers. Standard educational systems often fail to adapt to their unique strengths and ways of learning. School, and even the act of learning, can become a source of great anxiety and trauma. Self-directed education offers an alternative to traditional schools that can help neurodivergent children develop at their own pace and thrive.

Blending theory, practical advice and lived experience, clinical psychologist Naomi Fisher introduces the world of self-directed learning and tailoring the learning environment to your child.

This comprehensive overview of self-directed learning is packed with ideas on how to implement it at home and includes interviews from parents of neurodivergent children on how you can make learning differently work for you and your child

  1. Neurodiversity and Self-Directed Education
  2. Neurodiversity at School
  3. Learning at School
  4. Learning Without School
  5. The Safe to Learn Pyramid: Foundations of Self-Directed Education
  6. Recovery
  7. Trauma and Anxiety
  8. When Pressure is Toxic
  9. Making Changes: Stop and Smell the Coffee
  10. Academics
  11. Non-Academic Skills
  12. The Wider World: Communities and Groups

With Changing Our Minds Naomi Fisher established herself as the voice of reason in a sea of misinformation about an education system in existential crisis. This new book cements her reputation as a champion of young people's rights by giving a voice to those who are most impacted and yet too often silenced

Artemis D. Bear, Head of Freedom to Learn & Director of The Garden

A really important book giving a platform to the many SEND families who have been largely unheard in the education debate. As always Naomi offers us a fresh perspective on intersection of neurodiversity, learning and environment. A must read for anyone interested in education, psychology or the wonderful diversity of humanity. Highly recommended.

Kezia Cantwell-Wright, BA Hons, Founder of East Kent Sudbury, Administrator

In "A Different Way To Learn" Naomi Fisher builds on the scientific base of her earlier work "Changing Our Minds." She illuminates routes to self-directed learning that are effective in eliminating the coercion and anxiety generated by much conventional 'schooling.' I wish that I had read this book before becoming a parent and a teacher! She is a passionate voice for all children not just those defined as neuro-diverse

Derry Hannam, retired Deputy Headteacher, Inspector, international campaigner/researcher for Student Voice - author of 'Another Way Is Possible: Becoming a Democratic Teacher in a State School

Everyone knows the mainstream education system doesn't work for everyone, but most people don't realise there is an alternative. In this invaluable book, Naomi Fisher guides us through the world of self-directed education. It should be required reading for all educators, young people and their parents and carers - anyone who has ever wondered if another way is possible. Because it's not just possible. It's already happening...

James Mannion, Director, Rethinking Education and co-author of Fear is the Mind Killer with Kate McAllister
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Published on June 21, 2023 by Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 240 pages
Psychological Therapy Books
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