Autism + Inclusion for Community Programs

Do you run a community based program and need help making your activities and space more inclusive for autistic participants? Check out the information below!

Why This Matters:

You might not run a group specifically for autistic or neurodivergent people…but that doesn’t mean this population is not already part of your community! Many autistic individuals are looking for low-pressure, welcoming spaces where they can connect over shared interests and be themselves. Even if autism isn’t your targeted demographic, interest-based groups like art and theater classes, book clubs, sports teams, or fantasy focused groups can be incredibly powerful opportunities for connection. Inclusive environments offer autistic individuals meaningful chances to build social connections and practice communication skills in natural ways, whether that’s learning turn-taking in a game night, interpreting nonverbal cues in a class, or simply chatting with peers in a hobby group. These kinds of interactions can reduce loneliness, build confidence, and strengthen a sense of belonging; things that matter deeply for mental health and well-being. 

Why is this important for you? Being around diverse people and perspectives helps all of us grow! You don’t need to be an expert to be inclusive. Just being thoughtful about sensory needs, offering clear communication, and being open to different ways of showing up can make your space feel safer, more accessible, and more inclusive. 

What is Autism?

Autism is a condition that impacts how someone processes language, information, and sensory input. Autistic individuals communicate and build relationships with others differently as a result. Some differences include using and understanding concrete and literal language, needing more context and specificity to understand someone’s intended meaning (versus "reading between the lines"), needing extra time to take in information, and preferring visual communication methods such as written instructions. Autistic individuals may demonstrate different body language and nonverbal communication, and may not understand typical body language and nonverbal cues. Some individuals may need support planning, organizing, or generalizing information. Some autistic folks may have fine or gross motor challenges that make certain tasks difficult. 

Many autistic individuals also have unique sensory needs, which may make certain lighting, noises, textures, etc., distressing and/or distracting. Some individuals may seek out specific sensory experiences by "stimming," which can include rocking, fidgeting, making noises, or touching certain textures as a way of focusing or soothing themselves. Autistic individuals often also have topics of very high interest, called "special interests", which may draw them to the types of programs your organization runs. For many autistic folks, managing the day-to-day social and sensory demands of their environments can be a barrier to inclusion. 

Keep in mind that each person’s autism manifests differently–there’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach. When in doubt about how best to support the autistic individuals in your community, just ask them!

Tools for Inclusion:

  • To help manage overwhelm, allow access to break spaces with reduced sensory input (e.g. low lighting, reduced noise, etc.)

  • Provide visual reminders like text/email reminders for events or programs with a description of activities and information about the anticipated sensory environment (noise, lighting, food, etc). Include information about access to break spaces if available

  • Set up visual cues during events such as a written schedule of activities, instructions, signage for where to go, nametags, etc.

  • When possible, offer tours or walkthroughs of your space prior to an event

  • For activities that involve group discussion, consider:

    • Collaboratively setting group expectations that address inclusion for different communication styles and sensory needs

    • Creating a protocol for engagement, such as structured turn-taking and inviting individuals to speak one at a time

    • Providing a list in advance of discussion topics or questions that may be addressed

    • Allowing time to pause between speakers so autistic participants can take in the information and plan what they’d like to say next

    • Allowing participants to “pass” if they don’t feel comfortable contributing in a group discussion 

  • Allow participants to bring sensory tools or fidgets that help them feel more focused and calm

  • Reduce anxiety around transitions/change by giving a heads up or using a countdown timer to indicate an activity is ending

  • When possible, offer choices (and use visual tools to help with this!)

  • If possible, allow participants to stand or move or sit farther from the group during an activity

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