ABOUT US

In the early 20th century, there was a profound lack of knowledge about autism and other neurodiverse(ND) profiles, leading to great misunderstanding and inadequate care. 

Autism was first identified in 1943. Motor differences were noted, but not formally acknowledged. By the 1970s and 1980s, tailored support had become more prevalent, however, the lens was largely behavior conditioning, only one piece of the many. 

In the late 1990s, the Neurodiversity Movement began which promotes the acceptance and support of neurodivergence as a variation of human neurology. It emphasizes personalized, holistic care that respects the autonomy and individual intelligence of autistic and ND people.  

In the early 2000s, research began to provide a better understanding. New studies highlighted the motor complexities associated with neurological differences like autism. This research supported the idea that motor skills do not indicate an individual’s cognitive capacity or communicative desire, due to the presence of apraxia.

Apraxia affects an individual's ability to plan and coordinate movements, irrespective of their comprehension and physical capabilities. Apraxic motor difficulties can impact all areas of life, including communication. 

Individuals with apraxia report experiencing a brain/body disconnect. There is a gap between what they understand and the body's ability to express or demonstrate that understanding. We typically rely on intentional, coordinated movements to deduce everything about a person, so this disconnect means there is an 'invisible,' often severely overlooked, intelligence in autistic and neurodiverse individuals. Many autistic and N.D. people describe feeling stuck inside their minds and their bodies.

For some, this new perspective changed everything. It was difficult to know exactly how to practically integrate it into the mainstream educational and therapeutic care settings, so most of them didn't. This shift became divisive within the care community.

Strategies and techniques inspired by the new 'motor-informed' lens have emerged. Many of these methods are not widely understood, and sometimes they are not recognized or acknowledged at all. Established mainstream practices and procedures have been standardized for many years, and it will take time and dedication to create a meaningful impact.

Meaningful support that accommodates and respects the brain/body disconnect is becoming more available. MINDS UNSTUCK is part of a strong community of like-minded individuals creating change. Autistic and N.D. individuals are also making their own impact by sharing more publicly about their experiences. 

A lot has happened since this journey began, and much more as time has passed. It feels like we're still only just beginning. 

More of our community is beginning to understand. More individuals are receiving what they deserve. More, but not all. Not even close. 

Start learning more, and spreading what you're learning more.

Start speaking differently to autistic and N.D. people and let them know what you know. 

when we show we understand that a full range of humanness lives inside of us all.