Why Play is the Ultimate Learning Hack for Neurodivergent Kids

As parents of neurodivergent kids, we often feel pressured to make learning look like… well, school. Flashcards, worksheets, quiet desks, neatly sharpened pencils—all the things we grew up believing were necessary for a child to absorb information. But what if I told you that learning doesn’t have to look like a mini classroom at your kitchen table?

In the episode 81 of the Every Brain is Different podcast, Lauren and I sit down with Theresa Alexander Inman, a board-certified behavior analyst and infant-toddler developmental specialist, to talk about how play isn’t just fun—it’s one of the most powerful tools for learning and development.

Why Traditional Learning Methods Often Miss the Mark

Many neurodivergent kids struggle with conventional learning approaches because their brains are wired to process information differently. Sitting still, focusing on a worksheet, or repeating rote memorization can be frustrating at best—and completely ineffective at worst.

Movement-based learning—where kids are encouraged to wiggle, explore, and engage their bodies while absorbing information—helps regulate their nervous system, improve focus, and enhance comprehension.

Think about it: Have you ever noticed your child bouncing on a yoga ball while reciting facts, pacing the room while solving a problem, or tapping a rhythm while thinking? That’s not distraction—that’s their brain working in the way that works for them.

The Science Behind Movement & Learning

Research backs up what many of us see firsthand: kids with ADHD actually perform better on cognitive tasks when they’re allowed to move, while forcing them to sit still can increase frustration and decrease retention.

Why? Because movement helps:
✅ Regulate the nervous system
✅ Boost engagement and focus
✅ Improve memory and comprehension
✅ Reduce stress and increase enjoyment

So instead of seeing play as a break from learning, we need to start recognizing play as learning.

Making Learning Fun (and Effective!)

Theresa shares real-life examples of how meeting kids where they are—through movement, creativity, and play—can transform learning experiences.

🔹 Instead of using flashcards the “traditional” way, turn them into a scavenger hunt around the house.
🔹 Use music and rhythm to teach language skills and new concepts.
🔹 Let kids jump, spin, or balance on a wobble board while doing math problems.
🔹 Incorporate pretend play to help develop social and problem-solving skills.

The key takeaway? Adapting education to fit your child’s needs leads to greater success and less stress for everyone.

So the next time you feel guilty for choosing a game over a worksheet, remind yourself: Play is learning. And for neurodivergent kids, it might just be the best way to help them thrive.

🎧 Tune into our full conversation with Theresa Alexander Inman in episode 81 ofEvery Brain is Different!