Stanford Neurodiversity Project

Our Curricula

Week-long lesson plans for classrooms — ready to teach, free to use.

Each curriculum is a five-day unit designed for elementary-age students. Lessons explore neurodiversity through movement, discussion, storytelling, and art. Click a grade level below to expand its full lesson plan. Download individual day worksheets or full-grade PDFs using the file links provided.

Grade 1 Introduction to Neurodiversity — 5-Day Unit 5 lessons · 30–45 min each

This unit introduces first graders to the concept of neurodiversity — that all brains are different — and builds toward kindness, communication acceptance, and real-world application. Each lesson is hands-on and discussion-based.

📄 Download Full Grade 1 PDF
Day 1 · 30 min

Neurodiversity Concept

Would-You-Rather warm-up, body diagram discussion, and a drawing activity where students decorate paper brains with what makes their minds unique.

Day 2 · 30 min

Equality & Fairness

Students explore the difference between "fair" and "equal" using illustrated scenarios and a class discussion about classroom accommodations.

Day 3 · 30 min

Communication

An Amelia Bedelia read-aloud sparks discussion on different communication styles. Students identify their own preferences and brainstorm how to bridge differences.

Day 4 · 45 min

Applying Concepts

A picture book read-aloud followed by High-Five Invitations — students practice inclusive language by walking in lines and sharing one invitation with a peer.

Day 5 · 35 min

Commitment to Acceptance

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie introduces the ripple effect. Students write one act of kindness on a paper cookie to take home or display in class.