Hosting a family or friend gathering is a time to engage with one another, enjoy delicious food and have fun. By welcoming and honoring each person as they are, you create a space for authentic connection, especially with neurodivergent loved ones. Small adjustments can make a significant impact, helping everyone feel valued and included.
1. Create Sensory-Friendly Environments
To make your space or home neuro-inclusive, consider minimizing overwhelming sensory stimuli to prevent overstimulation. This could include lowering the lighting on the TV, using soft lighting, avoiding strong smells (like scented candles or overpowering foods), or maintaining the thermostat at a moderate temperature. Offering ear plugs or noise-canceling headphones and allowing guests to adjust lighting or music can make the environment more comfortable for everyone. Be mindful that not everyone is comfortable with physical touch, so allow individuals to express themselves in a way that feels right for them.
2. Think About the Food
Food can be an added trigger. When planning your menu, consider the dietary preferences and sensitivities of your neurodivergent guests, as they may have specific food allergies, aversions, sensitivities or restrictions, such as gluten, dairy, or soy intolerance. Some may prefer foods with familiar tastes and textures, avoiding overly complex or unfamiliar dishes. Be mindful that some neurodivergent people may have heightened sensitivities to taste, smell, or texture. Consider offering simple foods like plain pasta, rice, grilled chicken, or vegetables that are not heavily seasoned. Foods with predictable tastes and textures may be preferable. Labeling foods clearly can help ensure that everyone feels safe and comfortable with their food choices.
3. Designate a Quiet Space for Decompression
Set up a quiet area where people can retreat when they need a break from the social bustle. This space should be calming, quiet and may offer soft seating, low lighting and perhaps sensory tools like fidget items or soft blankets. Allowing guests to decline meals or activities when overwhelmed and encouraging them to take breaks as needed can help prevent sensory overload and ensure that everyone has a positive, stress-free experience.
4. Provide Clear Schedules and Expectations
Uncertainty about what’s happening or what to expect can be stressful for neurodivergent individuals. Share a clear outline of your plans, such as mealtimes and activities. Providing a written schedule or visual guide can be helpful, especially for guests who benefit from structure. Keep transitions between activities smooth and give advance notice before any changes to the plan.
5. Celebrate with Inclusive Activities
When planning, consider options that accommodate different preferences and comfort levels. For instance, opt for games that don’t require too much social interaction or focus on crafts, puzzles, or collaborative cooking. Having a variety of activities available allows guests to participate in ways that suit their interests and energy levels, creating a more inclusive and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Written by Kelley Krueger, PhD, BCBA, senior clinical director of Pacific Clinics Neurodevelopmental Services and Center for Divergent Connections, is a licensed psychologist and Board-Certified Behavior Analyst with more than 17 years of experience working with neurodivergent populations.
