D is for Demand Reduction: Honoring Capacity Through a Low-Pressure Approach
Demand reduction is about creating space for safety and connection by easing the pressure—not removing expectations entirely, but softening the way we invite participation.
When we lower demands, we honor a child’s current capacity. We shift from “How do I get them to do this?” to “How can I meet them where they are?”
A Neurodivergent Family's Guide to Halloween Fun
Halloween can be an exciting yet overwhelming time for many children, especially those who are neurodivergent. The bright lights, loud noises, crowded streets, and changes in routine are part of what makes the holiday fun, but they can also be sources of stress. Here at Valley Inclusive PlaySpace (vips), we know this firsthand—not only as an organization serving neurodivergent families but also as individuals living these experiences ourselves.