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: Provide a clear, optional, confidential way for participants to share access needs or potential challenges before the event (e.g., via registration form, email). Frame questions openly (e.g., “Is there anything that would support your full participation?” rather than asking for diagnoses).
• Provide Information in Advance: Share schedules, core topics, location details (including sensory info like lighting/sound expectations), and planned activities beforehand. This allows participants needing predictability to mentally prepare and reduces anxiety.
• Offer Multiple Formats: If possible, provide key information (like schedules or core concepts) in both written and visual/auditory formats.
• Be Explicit About Flexibility: Clearly state upfront that schedules may have some flexibility and that participants have agency to adapt their participation (e.g., taking breaks, opting out of certain exercises).

II. Physical Environment & Sensory Considerations:

• Lighting Options: Offer adjustable lighting where possible (dimmers, lamps vs. overhead fluorescents). Allow participants to wear sunglasses if needed.
• Sound Management: Minimize unnecessary background noise. Provide clear warnings before loud sounds (e.g., drumming, music). Offer a designated quiet space/room if feasible. Explicitly permit the use of noise-canceling headphones or earplugs.
• Scent Awareness: Aim for a low-scent or scent-free environment (avoid strong incense, perfumes, cleaning products). Inform participants of this policy beforehand.
• Seating Flexibility: Offer varied seating options (chairs, floor cushions, space to stand or pace quietly at the back/sides). Avoid forcing everyone into one configuration.
• Fidget Tools & Movement: Explicitly permit and normalize the quiet use of personal fidget tools. Verbally affirm that subtle movement (rocking, leg bouncing, stretching without disruption) is okay if it aids focus or regulation.
• Clear Pathways: Ensure physical spaces are easy to navigate, minimizing clutter that could be overwhelming or disorienting.

III. Instruction & Content Delivery:

• Explicit & Clear Instructions: Provide instructions that are direct, concise, and unambiguous. Avoid excessive jargon, vague metaphors (unless also explained concretely), or relying solely on implicit understanding.
• Multi-Modal Delivery: Offer key instructions both verbally and visually (e.g., whiteboard, handout, slide). Repeat complex instructions or break them down into smaller steps.
• Check for Understanding: Pause after instructions and explicitly ask if clarification is needed. Create a space where asking questions feels safe and welcomed.
• Pacing & Processing Time: Be mindful of processing speed differences. Allow pauses for information to land, especially after complex concepts or emotional exercises. Avoid rushing transitions.
• Visual Aids & Structure: Use visual aids (diagrams, simple slides) to support understanding, especially for abstract concepts (like the Entangled Firmament). Provide a clear structure or outline for sessions.

IV. Interaction & Group Dynamics:

• Explicit Communication Norms: Co-create or clearly state communication guidelines (e.g., using “I” statements, waiting for others to finish, respecting different communication paces). Acknowledge and validate diverse styles (directness is okay, processing pauses are okay).
• Avoid Forced Eye Contact: Do not mandate or imply that direct eye contact is necessary for listening or respect. Affirm that diverse ways of showing engagement are valid.
• Consent for Touch: Make all physical touch strictly optional and based on explicit, enthusiastic, ongoing consent (using models like the Wheel of Consent is highly recommended). Never assume touch is welcomed.
• Varied Interaction Formats: Offer a mix of interaction styles (e.g., full group, pairs, small groups, individual reflection) to accommodate different social capacities and preferences. Provide clear structures for pair/small group work.
• Facilitate Turn-Taking: Gently guide discussions to ensure opportunities for quieter individuals to speak, without putting anyone on the spot. Normalize passing if someone doesn’t wish to share.
• Validate Diverse Experiences: Explicitly acknowledge that participants may process or experience practices differently based on their neurology, trauma history, or other factors. Avoid implying there is one “right” way to feel or respond.

V. Flexibility, Choice & Agency:

• Offer Breaks: Schedule regular breaks. Encourage participants to take additional personal breaks as needed for sensory regulation, movement, or rest, without needing permission.
• Explicit Opt-Out Options: Clearly state that participation in any specific exercise (especially those involving high vulnerability, intense emotion, or physical closeness) is optional. Provide dignified alternatives (e.g., quiet observation, journaling, resting).
• Adaptable Schedule: While providing structure, build in some buffer time and flexibility to respond to the group’s emergent needs or energy levels.
• Empower Self-Advocacy: Create an environment where participants feel safe and encouraged to communicate their needs and boundaries. Respond respectfully and attempt accommodation where feasible.

VI. Integration & Follow-Up:

• Offer Varied Integration Tools: Provide multiple ways to process experiences (e.g., journaling prompts, drawing materials, movement suggestions, quiet reflection time), acknowledging different neurological processing styles.
• Acknowledge Different Timelines: Recognize that integration unfolds uniquely for each person and may take time. Offer resources for ongoing support if appropriate.
• Accessible Follow-Up: If providing follow-up materials, consider accessibility (e.g., summaries, different formats).

VII. Facilitator Awareness & Ongoing Learning:

• Self-Reflection: Regularly examine personal biases and assumptions about neurotypicality, communication, and behavior. How might these impact facilitation?
• Seek Feedback: Actively solicit feedback (including anonymous options) specifically on the accessibility and inclusivity of the space for diverse neurological needs.
• Continue Learning: Educate yourself ongoingly about neurodiversity from neurodivergent voices and reputable sources. Stay humble and open to evolving understanding.
• Practice Self-Regulation: Maintain your own nervous system regulation to hold space effectively and respond calmly and flexibly to diverse participant needs and unexpected situations.

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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.