Reasonable adjustments are changes made at home, school, or in the community to help reduce stress or remove barriers for neurodivergent children and young people. These adjustments support routines, transitions, and sensory needs. 

You can ask for reasonable adjustments to be made to help you feel safer, calmer, and more in control.

Routines

Having a clear routine can help reduce anxiety. Try: 

• Making a list of daily tasks 

• Creating a visual schedule for after school or bedtime 

• Including calming activities like deep breathing or sensory play 

Visual Supports

If it’s hard to listen or focus, visual tools can help: 

• Use a visual timetable or written checklist

• Include pictures or symbols for younger children 

• Keep it somewhere easy to see and use 

Environmental Checklist

Look at the spaces where the child or young person spends time: 

• Home 

• School or college 

• Clubs or leisure activities 

• Alone time and social time 

Ask: What helps them feel calm? What causes stress? Be a detective—small changes can make a big difference. 

Challenging Environments

Some environments can be overwhelming. Think about: 

• Bright lights 

• Loud noises 

• Busy or crowded spaces 

• Strong smells 

These can affect mood and behaviour. Try to reduce or avoid unnecessary sensory input. 

Inside the Home

• Create a consistent routine 

• Use organisation to give a sense of control 

• Offer a quiet space like a tent, cabin bed, or corner with cushions 

• Use soft colours and blackout curtains 

• Choose a quiet room if possible 

• Give “heavy tasks” like carrying shopping or stacking tins—these can be calming 

Sensory Strategies

• Avoid loud sounds and bright lights 

• Use movement tools like rocking chairs or swings 

• Offer sensory breaks with fidget toys, music, or quiet time 

• Try snug clothing or weighted blankets 

• Use earplugs or headphones with calming music

General Tips

• Minimise clutter 

• If sharing a bedroom, set clear boundaries and schedules 

• Use activity schedules to reduce anxiety 

• Prepare for changes with visual timers or verbal prompts 

• Balance the day with: 

• Structured tasks 

• Meaningful activities 

• Fun and relaxing moments 

Emotional Support

• Teach and model emotion regulation skills 

• Practice calming strategies when the child is calm 

• Use play, art, or stories to help express feelings 

• Offer sensory and movement breaks to help process emotions

For Carers

Children often rely on trusted adults to help regulate emotions. This is called co-regulation. 

• Stay calm and aware of your own feelings 

• Take a breath before responding 

• Support the child with patience and understanding

Outside the Home

Playgrounds and sensory spaces can help: 

• Swings, trampolines, therapy balls 

• Sand and water play 

• Tents or quiet areas 

• Soft play centres (visit during quiet times) 

Busy places like shops or restaurants: 

• Plan ahead—know exit routes and calming tools 

• Visit at quieter times or shop online 

• Use backpacks, snug clothing, or earplugs 

• Listen to music with headphones 

• Bring a small toy or fidget item 

Gardening Creativity

Gardens can be calming, fun, and creative spaces. They offer time alone, time with friends, or a place to let off steam. Here are some ideas to make your garden more supportive: 

Sensory Areas

• Create small, safe spaces like tents or sheds with soft toys or cushions 

• Use enclosed areas for quiet time or calming activities 

Movement and Play

• Add climbing frames, swings, trampolines, or slides 

• These help with movement and can be calming for some young people 

All-Weather Comfort

• Use gazebos, sheds, or outdoor lighting so the garden can be used in all weather and even at night 

Calming Features

• Small water features can soothe and distract 

• Wind chimes, spinning toys, or light reflectors can be relaxing and enjoyable 

Supporting Young People with ADHD

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) affects how someone focuses, manages energy, and responds to their environment. Here are ways to support a young person with ADHD: 

Understand Their Experience

• Talk about what ADHD feels like in different places (home, school, community) 

• Identify when ADHD symptoms are strongest (e.g. mornings, after school) 

Spot Triggers

• Think about internal triggers (thoughts, feelings, body sensations) 

• Notice external triggers (noise, busy places, distractions) 

Use Coping Cards

• Write down helpful strategies on small cards 

• Keep them in a pocket or bag to use when needed (especially at school) 

Break Tasks into Steps

• Make big tasks smaller and easier to manage 

• Use checklists or visual aids to track progress