A Conference on Neurodiversity - Supporting Teachers & SNAs within their schools

Difference Not Disorder: A Neurodiversity Conference

Overview
The aim of the conference is to  help participants build practical, inclusive strategies and deepen their understanding of different neurological conditions.

Deepen Understanding: Gain a clear, research-led understanding of neurodiversity as a natural variation in human cognition rather than a deficit.

Recognize Strengths: Appreciate the unique perspectives, creativity, and problem-solving skills that neurodivergent individuals bring to environments like schools, home, workplaces and in doing so drive cultural  change to see Neurodiversity as difference and not disorder.

These link directly to the new Irish curriculum frameworks.

Tea, coffee and sandwiches will be provided during the event.

Session Overview

Start Time: 10:15am

1st Speaker: Karla McGuire - The Sensory System (40 mins)

2nd Speaker: Pauline Hunter - The Role of Primitive Reflexes (40 mins)

Break: 10minutes

3rd Speaker: Emer Connolly - "A parent's perspective of day-to-day living, supporting children with Neuro-diversity" (10 mins)

4th Speaker: Sinéad O'Toole - INPP School Intervention Programme (40 mins)

Speaker Information

Karla McGuire
My name is Karla. I am a primary school teacher and Neurodevelopmental therapist based in Buncrana. I have taught in various mainstream and special needs classes across Ireland and the U.K. I discovered Neurodevelopmental therapy when one of my own children was struggling. When I saw what a positive impact it had on their life I undertook training with the INPP in the U.K.  Since then I have become much more aware of how children develop from infancy, how the brain works and the importance of the right environment for children to thrive. I have a keen interest in the sensory system and how it works. I love exploring the role balance and motor skills play in classroom learning and seeing how it positively impacts the children in my room. My goal is to bring this knowledge to as many schools and families as possible.

Pauline Hunter
Pauline Hunter is an Educator and Neurodevelopmental Therapist and passionate advocate for inclusive education, working alongside families and teachers across Donegal. At the heart of her work is a core belief: she sees neurodivergence as a difference, not a disorder. Based in Donegal, Pauline supports neurodivergent children and young people by bridging the gap between home and school. She offers practical, strengths-based strategies for supporting children's learning and development, including speech and language, social skills, ADHD, Autism and Dyslexia. She works closely with families and teachers to create neuro-affirming classrooms and homes where every child feels seen, safe and valued.

Sinéad O'Toole
I am an experienced Educator and INPP Neuro Developmental Therapist. With over 25 years of classroom experience - alongside my own lived personal and family experience with neurodiversity - I know that no two nervous systems are the same. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to learning, growth, or well-being. What works brilliantly for one child might not suit another, which is why individualised, responsive support is at the heart of everything I do. Throughout my career, I've seen how much physical comfort and body regulation impact a child's ability to thrive. My journey with the INPP method began with a drive to find gentle, flexible tools that support the body's natural development. As a qualified practitioner, I offer tailored movement programmes designed to help children feel more grounded, regulated and confident - on their own terms. My practice is built on deep respect for neurodivergent experiences. I am here to partner with you and your child—not to change who they are, but to explore what helps them feel supported, comfortable, and empowered in their daily lives. Based in Buncrana, County Donegal, I offer 1:1 consultations, school talks and tailored workshops for educators and parents.