Appendices

Appendix C

Practical Checklist for Neuro-Affirming Facilitation

Core Principle: Neurodiversity is a natural human variation. Affirming spaces adapt to meet diverse neurological needs, fostering safety, inclusion, and authentic participation for all on the Path of the Dragon.

I. Preparation & Pre-Event Communication

• Ask About Needs: Offer a confidential, optional way for participants to share access needs pre-event. Use open-ended questions (e.g., “What would support your full participation?”) instead of asking for diagnoses.
• Provide Information in Advance: Share schedules, topics, and location details (including sensory info like lighting/sound) beforehand to reduce anxiety and allow for mental preparation.
• Offer Multiple Formats: Provide key information (schedules, concepts) in multiple formats (e.g., written, visual, audio).
• State Flexibility Upfront: Announce that the schedule is flexible and participants can adapt their engagement (e.g., take breaks, opt out of exercises) at any time.

II. Physical Environment & Sensory Considerations

• Offer Lighting Options: Provide adjustable lighting (dimmers, lamps). Explicitly permit sunglasses.
• Manage Sound: Minimize background noise. Warn before loud sounds. Offer a designated quiet space. Permit noise-canceling headphones/earplugs.
• Create a Low-Scent Space: Request a low-scent or scent-free environment. Inform participants of this policy in advance.
• Provide Flexible Seating: Offer varied seating (chairs, cushions) and space to stand or move quietly. Avoid forcing a single configuration.
• Normalize Movement & Fidgets: Explicitly permit the quiet use of fidget tools and self-regulating movements (e.g., rocking, stretching) that are not disruptive.
• Ensure Clear Pathways: Keep the space uncluttered and easy to navigate to reduce overwhelm.

III. Instruction & Content Delivery

• Give Clear Instructions: Be direct, concise, and unambiguous. Explain jargon and metaphors. Avoid relying on implication.
• Use Multi-Modal Delivery: Provide instructions verbally and visually (e.g., whiteboard, slide). Repeat or break down complex steps.
• Check for Understanding: After giving instructions, pause and explicitly ask for questions. Make it safe to ask for clarification.
• Allow Processing Time: Be mindful of varied processing speeds. Build in pauses after complex or emotional content. Do not rush transitions.
• Use Visuals & Structure: Use diagrams and simple slides to clarify abstract concepts. Provide a clear session outline.

IV. Interaction & Group Dynamics

• Set Clear Communication Norms: State or co-create guidelines (e.g., “I” statements, no interruptions). Validate diverse styles like directness or processing pauses.
• Don’t Force Eye Contact: Explicitly state that eye contact is not required to show respect or engagement.
• Require Consent for Touch: All physical touch must be optional and based on explicit, enthusiastic, and ongoing consent. Never assume touch is welcome.
• Vary Interaction Formats: Use a mix of formats (full group, pairs, individual reflection) to suit different social capacities. Provide clear instructions for breakouts.
• Guide Turn-Taking: Gently facilitate discussions to create space for quieter voices. Normalize passing on a turn to share.
• Validate All Experiences: Explicitly state that there is no “right” way to experience a practice. Acknowledge that responses will vary based on neurology and history.

V. Flexibility, Choice & Agency

• Provide & Encourage Breaks: Schedule regular breaks and explicitly empower participants to take personal breaks whenever needed, without permission.
• Offer Clear Opt-Outs: Make participation in any exercise optional, especially intense ones. Provide dignified alternatives like journaling or quiet observation.
• Maintain an Adaptable Schedule: Build buffer time into the schedule to flexibly respond to the group’s energy and needs.
• Empower Self-Advocacy: Foster a space where participants feel safe to state their needs and boundaries. Respond with respect and accommodate when possible.

VI. Integration & Follow-Up

• Provide Varied Integration Tools: Offer multiple ways to process (journaling, drawing, movement, quiet reflection) to support different processing styles.
• Acknowledge Diverse Timelines: Remind participants that integration is a personal process that takes time. Offer resources for ongoing support.
• Ensure Accessible Follow-Up: Provide any follow-up materials in accessible, multiple formats.

VII. Facilitator Awareness & Ongoing Learning

• Examine Personal Biases: Regularly reflect on your own assumptions about neurotypical behavior and communication and how they affect your facilitation.
• Actively Seek Feedback: Solicit specific, anonymous feedback on the space’s accessibility and inclusivity.
• Commit to Ongoing Learning: Continuously learn about neurodiversity from neurodivergent creators and sources. Remain humble and open.
• Prioritize Self-Regulation: Maintain your own regulated state to hold space effectively and respond calmly to emergent needs.

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Note: Implementing these considerations benefits all participants by creating clearer, more adaptable, respectful, and intentionally held spaces. Neuro-affirming practices often align with trauma-informed principles and contribute to overall psychological safety. This checklist is a tool for growth, not perfection; start where you can and commit to ongoing improvement.