Different, Not Less: A Student's Journey with Neurodiversity

Growing up, Kylie Armstrong ‘25 felt something was different. She had many interests and loved being a part of many teams, clubs or programs, but had trouble keeping track of her schedule. She had trouble grasping concepts in school, but shied away from asking for help to not appear ‘different’ from others in her class. When she was diagnosed with ADHD in Grade 5, she had difficulty accepting the diagnosis. It wasn’t until she met Greer Fitzpatrick ‘25 in elementary school that she learned how to embrace her neurodiversity. 

Now Kylie wants to share her journey on accepting who she is with others through her self-published colouring book, Different, Not Less: My Journey with Neurodiversity. “I was inspired to write this book by my experiences at my old school and the ableism I encountered there,” says Kylie. “And I want to help younger children by sharing my journey.”

If you are a member of the Greenwood community interested in purchasing a copy for yourself, please contact Kylie. If you are a member of the public, please reach out to communications@greenwoodcollege.com for more information.

Proceeds from the sale of the book will go towards producing additional copies to donate to the Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario as well as local psychological assessment centres. “Learning how I first reacted to my diagnosis, I think the assessment centres can give my book to children who are newly diagnosed to help them understand and accept it,” explains Kylie.