Think SPACE!
- Reduce sensory traffic (close windows & doors, check the room temperature).
- Physical: consider groups sizes and/or proximity to other group members when allocating seating arrangements.
- Acceptance: Taking care to create an environment that is safe for all will help Neurodivergent people to feel accepted.
KEY ISSUES
Sensory sensitivities may make interventions totally inaccessible without adaptations. A Neurodivergent client will have limited capacity to engage (if at all) with assessments or learning. Some Neurodivergent individuals may be unable to tolerate being near others. In the context of interventions, physical space is important both in terms of group size and proximity to other group members. Unfamiliar and unpredictable environments and processes can be a source of increased and/or extreme anxiety, particularly if changes are made at short notice. Predictability and routine can reduce anxiety.
PRACTICAL TIPS
General tips:
Auditory
- Turn electrical equipment off when not in use (avoids humming).
- Close doors and windows to reduce noise (from traffic or other rooms).
- No ticking clocks.
- No unnecessary alarms.
- Advance notice of fire/emergency drills.
- Early access to a room before others enter to familiarise/acclimatise to setting.
Visual
- Access to visual stimuli (e.g., a map of the room and layout).
- Wear neutral clothing.
Smell
- Use unscented cleaning materials.
- Avoid strong perfumes/aftershave.
Touch
- Assigned and/or identify preferred seating.
- Varied seating (couch, beanbag, chairs).
- Consider group size and spatial awareness when setting up a room.
Interoception
- Allow toilet breaks as required.
- Allow snacks.
- Thermostat to maintain regular temperature.
- Practitioner modelling/ vocalisation of these behaviours to help people identify their needs and to demonstrate that these practices (having a drink/ using the toilet) are acceptable.
Proprioceptive
- Allow/provide permission to move how one’s body needs to (supporting regulation).
- Provide weighted blankets.
- Refrain from physical contact.
- Allow outdoor coats, hats and hoods up if this helps people to feel more secure and comfortable.
Regulation
- Leave multisensory tools on tables.
- Leave blank paper and pens on tables for doodling.
Holistic and individualised adaptations
- Group size should be considered more generally. However, this will be an important question to ask clients during the assessment stage of an intervention (see section 5.2).
- A full assessment of sensory, predictability and physical needs and space should be considered during the assessment stage, and ongoing throughout the period of intervention (see section 5.2).
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
- There may be competing needs amongst groups members which are in conflict.
- When delivering interventions via a group work format, it is important to consider competing needs when deciding who can be allocated to a specific cohort.