The Open University launches new toolkit to support parents of neurodivergent children as research reveals families feel overwhelmed and under-resourced

Posted on 9 February 2026 • Childhood, Education, Education, languages and health, University news

With neurodiversity diagnoses rising across the UK, new research from The Open University (OU) reveals that many parents of neurodivergent children are struggling to find clear, trustworthy and practical guidance, despite actively searching for support.

The survey of 1,000 UK parents of neurodivergent children found that while 70% say they have a trusted place to go for advice, a significant proportion still feel uncertain and overloaded by the information available. Among those who seek guidance, only one in four (25%) feel confident in the sources they use, while the same proportion report feeling overwhelmed, particularly mothers.

Parents are turning to a wide range of sources for help, with over half (56%) relying on NHS websites, followed by schools (40%), search engines (37%) and charities or specialist organisations (36%). Yet nearly 1 in 5 (19%) say they always have to search for resources themselves, and 96% say they would find a single, combined resource or toolkit useful.

Practical strategies and expert-backed guidance

In response, The Open University has launched the Supporting Neurodivergent Children hub; which includes a free, practical toolkit designed to help parents, carers and educators better understand and support the neurodivergent children in their lives.

Developed by OU academics Mel Green and Dr Poppy Gibson, both of whom bring academic expertise and lived experience of raising and teaching neurodivergent children, the toolkit offers:

• Practical strategies to try at home and in school
• Expert-backed guidance on sensory needs, communication, routines and more
• Flexible learning pathways, including free short courses and formal qualifications in childhood, early years and inclusive education.

The launch comes as the survey highlights the appetite among parents to deepen their understanding: nearly three‑quarters (74%) say they already work in, or would consider pursuing, a career in special educational needs (SEN) or additional support.

The campaign aims to reassure families who often feel isolated or unsure whether they are ‘doing it right’, helping them to understand ‘you’re not in this alone’. While 45% of parents say it is easy to find practical strategies, nearly three in ten (28%) still find it difficult, and many report feeling anxious (20%) or stressed (18%) when searching for help.

Dr Poppy Gibson, Lecturer in Education at The Open University said:

“We believe that understanding and embracing neurodiversity is the first step towards helping every child thrive. Parents of neurodivergent children face unique joys and challenges, and they deserve accessible, expert-informed support. This toolkit has been created to empower families with practical strategies, reassurance and real-world insight.”

Mel Green, Lecturer in Education at The Open University said:

“When my son received his diagnosis, I wished that I had something to help me to understand how I could best support him to be able to be himself comfortably in a world that is not always designed with neurodivergent children in mind. My contribution to this toolkit comes directly from that place, as both a mother and an educator. I wanted to offer parents practical strategies and clear information about their rights, so they feel more confident in supporting and advocating for their children.”

The OU’s new hub brings together trusted, evidence-based information in one place, something parents have clearly said they need.

Professor Al Laville, Pro‑Vice‑Chancellor for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at The Open University, added:

“At The Open University, widening access to learning is at the heart of our mission. This toolkit reflects our commitment to empowering parents, carers and educators with practical, evidence‑informed resources that promote neurodivergent inclusion throughout a child’s life. By equipping families with the right tools, we are hoping to help create a more equitable future where every young person can reach their full potential.”

Explore the toolkit

Parents, carers and educators can now access the Supporting Neurodivergent Children hub for free, offering guidance on everything from daily routines to sensory needs, alongside inspiring stories and pathways into further study.

Explore the Supporting neurodivergent children hub and toolkit.

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