Neurodivergent Convention Survival Guide

Disclaimer: Neurodivergence encompasses many different experiences, and no single guide can capture every need. Take what resonates, adjust what doesn't, and trust your own expertise as you create a convention experience that works best for you.

Conventions can be exciting, but also overwhelming for neurodivergent attendees. Changes in routine, large crowds, loud noises, and other sensory challenges can make the experience difficult to navigate.

Below are tips and strategies to help you prepare and make the weekend more enjoyable. 

1. Plan Ahead

Preparation is key to a positive convention experience. Here’s how to get started:

• Do your research. Familiarize yourself with the hotels and Convention Center. Study the maps and note important locations such as restrooms, Quiet Rooms, and Accessibility Services Office. Save these maps on your phone for quick access, and use Google or Apple Maps to explore the surrounding area. 

• Review accessibility options. Accessibility Services offers resources like wristbands that allow priority use of hotel elevators if you need to get to your room quickly. Check their services and accommodations in advance.

• Create a schedule. Review the programming schedule before arriving and list events you’d like to attend. Include travel time between venues, meal breaks, and rest periods in a visual daily schedule.

• Arrive early. If possible, arrive before Thursday to explore the convention space with smaller crowds. Mornings are generally calmer, too. 

• Arrange travel assistance. Contact airports, hotels, or other facilities ahead of time to request assistance such as early check-in or priority boarding. 

2. Prepare for Meltdowns

Melttowns happen, and that’s okay. While they can’t always be avoided, you can take steps to minimize their impact.

• Practice for crowded spaces. Long lines and large crowds are part of conventions. Practice waiting in lines at familiar places beforehand, and bring a friend to help make the experience easier.

• Don’t mask or suppress meltdowns. Fighting a meltdown may worsen your feelings. Let yourself process and recover.

• Pack soothing items. Bring sensory toys, a special plushie, noise-cancelling headphones, gum, candy, or anything else that helps you feel calm. Accessibility Services often has foam earplugs, fidgets, and candy if you need them.

• Use Color Communication Cards. These cards can indicate your comfort level with social interactions.

• Consider a medical alert bracelet. Companies like MedicAlert can engrave essential information, especially if you may become nonverbal or have limited communication. 

3. Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to your physical needs throughout the day:

• Stay hydrated. Drink water if you’re feeling thirsty. 

• Take breaks. Step outside or walk around if you’re restless. 

• Eat regularly. Don’t skip meals or snacks.

• Rest when needed. If you feel tired or achy, find a place to sit and recharge.

4. Allow for Downtime

It’s tempting to pack your schedule full of events, but rest is just as important as having fun. 

• Prioritize recovery time. Take breaks between activities, return to your hotel room, find a less crowded hallway, or visit a Quiet Room to recharge.

• Pace yourself. It’s okay to miss events if you’re feeling drained. Your well-being comes first.

5. Lean on Your Support Network

Being with the right people can make your convention experience more enjoyable and less stressful. 

• Communicate your needs. Talk to your friends in advance about your boundaries and what kind of support you might need.

• Reach out for help. Ask someone you trust to step in when needed. Don’t hesitate to lean on your group for emotional support.

• Consult your therapist. If you see a therapist, share your plans and discuss any concerns or excitement you’re feeling about the trip. 

• Find staff support. Accessibility Services staff (in green vests) are available to provide information, resources, or general advice. While they aren’t therapists, they can help with practical assistance.

6. Be Kind to Yourself

• Be yourself. While masking can sometimes help navigate a neurotypical world, it’s exhausting and can lead to burnout. You deserve spaces where you can exist comfortably without having to hide who you are.

• Let go of perfectionism. It’s okay to skip events or social activities if you’re out of spoons. Remember, you are doing your best.

Additional Questions?

If you have a question that isn’t answered here, please contact us via our Service Desk. We are happy to help!