Accessibility Resources: Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity Definition: Neurodiversity is a word used to explain the unique ways people’s brains work. While everyone’s brain develops similarly, no two brains function just alike. Being neurodivergent means having a brain that works differently from the average or “neurotypical” person. 

In order to make content accessible to people with cognitive and neurological disabilities, present information in a clear, concise, and consistent way while minimizing potential distractions, ie; decorations, different font styles, non-essential graphics, etc. 

• Write in a way that is concise, straightforward, and easy to understand.
• When graphs and illustrations where beneficial, use a description of the content below them. 
• Structure your content so that people can orient themselves to the page and get an overview of it before moving to any one part (i.e. use headings and sub-headings to add sections to content).
• Label links, page controls, and forms consistently so that the function is always apparent.
• Provide a variety of ways to navigate your site, such as a search box or site map, as well as links.
• Provide the option to turn off or hide blinking, flashing, or otherwise distracting content.