Founder of Diverse Pathways
Diverse Pathways for Early Childhood is led by Kerry Murphy, an early childhood specialist, lecturer, trainer and researcher working at the intersection of neurodiversity, play and inclusive practice.
This work draws on practice-based knowledge, academic research and collaboration with educators, families and specialists. All core frameworks and play patterns within Diverse Pathways are original work developed by Kerry Murphy and the Neurodiversity-Affirming Early Childhood Collective and should be used with attribution.
You can find more about the collective members under About Us.
Featured Project
Autistic Play Patterns
Autistic Play Patterns describe recurring ways autistic children explore, connect and make meaning through play.
They offer an alternative to deficit-led interpretations of play by recognising autistic play as meaningful, developmental and relational. Diverse Pathways exists to offer an alternative.
This work supports educators, parents and professionals to recognise difference, honour children’s ways of being, and move towards more affirming and relational practice.
They are designed to support educators, parents and professionals to observe play more carefully, plan more attuned environments, and advocate for autistic children without pathologising difference.