Micro-accommodations are subtle, often small-scale adjustments or supports designed to assist neurodivergent individuals in navigating environments that are primarily structured for neurotypical individuals. These accommodations are personalized and specific, focusing on the unique needs and preferences of an individual rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.

To understand micro-accommodations, it’s useful to contrast them with traditional accommodations. Traditional accommodations, like providing wheelchair ramps or sign language interpreters, are often broad in scope and designed to address the needs of larger groups. While incredibly important, they may not address the nuanced requirements of every individual within a group. Micro-accommodations, in contrast, are highly individualized. They might involve adjustments as simple as allowing an employee to wear headphones to reduce sensory overload, providing written instructions for someone who struggles with auditory processing, or creating a quiet, low-light space for an individual who gets easily overwhelmed in busy environments.

Examples of micro-accommodations are diverse and can be applied in various settings:

- In a workplace, it could be flexible work hours for someone with ADHD who functions better at different times of the day.

- In a classroom, it might involve giving a student with dyslexia extra time on tests or providing text-to-speech software.

- In social settings, understanding and accepting non-standard forms of communication and interaction can be a form of micro-accommodation.

The beauty of micro-accommodations lies in their simplicity and the profound impact they can have. A small change in environment or approach can significantly reduce anxiety and stress for a neurodivergent person, enabling them to focus more on their tasks or interactions. This not only supports their well-being but also allows them to showcase their strengths and capabilities more effectively.

Another crucial aspect of micro-accommodations is that they often benefit everyone, not just neurodivergent individuals. For example, a quieter, more organized workspace can improve concentration and productivity for all employees. This universal benefit is a key reason why adopting micro-accommodations can be an advantageous strategy for organizations and communities.