You may have heard the term “neurospicy” popping up online!  And it’s a word that’s taken my heart!

I first encountered this term from Jo at Kaiko Fidgets and I instantly fell in love with it. Why? Because let’s be honest, “neurodivergence” is a bit of a tongue-twister, But “neurospicy”? It rolls off the tongue (do you have words you just love to say?).

Jo used “neurospicy” to describe her family, saying they are ‘a neurospicy family,” And knowing Jo….I couldn’t agree more with how perfectly that captures the beautiful uniqueness within their family. It’s a playful way to say, “Hey, we all think, see, and do things a bit differently, and that’s something to celebrate!”

“Neurodivergent” is an umbrella term that covers various ways of thinking and experiencing the world that diverge from what’s typically expected in society (often called “neurotypical”). This includes conditions like autism, dyslexia, ADHD, Tourette syndrome, and others. It’s a reminder that there isn’t just one way of experiencing the world, and that’s a good thing!

The magic of “neurospicy” lies in its ability to frame neurodiversity as something vibrant and exciting, rather than an ailment that needs fixing. More and more, we’re seeing a shift in how society views neurodivergence—not as something to “fix,” but as a different way of interacting with the world. These differences can be strengths, offering unique perspectives and insights that can be incredibly valuable. Many companies are catching on to this, embracing neurodiversity to tap into this rich source of creativity and innovation.

So why choose “neurospicy” over “neurodivergent”?

For one, you don’t have to!  If you love the language you are using, you can stick with it. 

If you are keen to add it, please do and enjoy the fun term.

As I said, I love it.  It adds a dash of humor and charm, making it a perfect fit for those of us who love a little silliness in life. Plus, I can’t help but think of a little chili pepper every time I hear it, and it makes me smile. And let’s not forget, it’s much easier to spell—especially for those with dyslexia!

I encourage you to embrace “neurospicy.” It’s a delightful way to acknowledge our unique brains, spread joy, and build an inclusive environment where everyone feels accepted and valued. Let’s celebrate being neurospicy together and embrace the wonderful spectrum of human experience with open arms!