Neurodiversity in the Literacy Classroom

The General Educator's Guide to IEPs, Dyslexia, ADHD, Autism, and More

As someone who struggled in school, and as a parent of kids with learning disabilities,I I know firsthand that teachers are a key reason for whether a child meets their potential or falters. If thoughtfully addressed, neurodivergence can go hand in hand with creative genius. This book is the book all teachers need in order to make sure all students have an equal chance to thrive.

Here’s why this book matters. Confusion and chaos continue to surround teaching students with learning disabilities. Too often policies driving educational practices cause major pivots away from the knowledge, resources, and expertise educators need to cultivate inclusive, liberatory literacy environments where all students thrive. Cruz cuts through this noise. With Neurodiversity in the Literacy Classroom, finally, every educator will have access to information and practical, research-based strategies to support neurodivergent students. Schools do not always have the resources to send educators to conferences or classes to acquire and develop the skills needed for inclusive classrooms to flourish. But now we have this incredible resource to keep at our fingertips, to use as our guide, and to light the way.

Neurodiversity in the Literacy Classroom is a book I wish every general educator had access to! This book explains IEPs, UDL, dyslexia, ADHD, and autism in a clear and compassionate way, and celebrates the brilliance and complexity of students. It makes it very clear that literacy learning for neurodivergent children is not about perfection, but more about starting with joy, intention, and the belief that every child deserves access to high-level literacy learning.

Neurodiversity in the Literacy Classroom is intended to be an approachable and supportive “mentor on the shelf.” The author writes in an accessible and engaging voice and shares practical strategies for creating a responsive literacy environment for neurodiverse learners along with relatable anecdotes and wisdom that come from her vast experience in the field. You will find yourself reaching for this book again and again!”

Wow! I wish Neurodiversity in the Literacy Classroom had been available when I was teaching, since it serves as the primer many educators need to support neurodivergent students and help them thrive. The book offers educators a comprehensive, strengths-based guide to creating inclusive and effective literacy environments. Colleen’s research-based insights, practical strategies, and thoughtful guidance make this an invaluable resource for building classroom communities where every student feels like they belong.

What a gift of a book! With detailed but accessible support for teachers at every stage of their careers who wish to build truly inclusive learning communities, M. Colleen Cruz offers practical strategies backed by extensive research and real-life stories. Cruz's writing is authentic and compelling--her thoughtful, engaging, and dynamic prose is free of jargon and encouraging about the possibilities for building on what we know will strengthen our schools and classrooms. Neurodiversity in the Literacy Classroom is a timely and absolutely essential resource for the classroom and beyond.

Early in this book, M. Colleen Cruz informs the reader that "this is a book about belonging." Being a literacy teacher who also deals with my own AuDHD, I am thrilled to have this powerful and practical road map for making my own classroom a place of joy and belonging for all students.