Today, I ran world-building sessions with two autistic siblings to create interconnected #DND campaigns tailored to their needs. Each sibling has their own world—one dark and treacherous, the other filled with animals, rainbows, and Jellos.
On a big notepad, we sketched out detailed maps using the classic “throw dice, draw the shapes” method, designating each world on either side of the spiral rings. This visual setup not only highlighted the unique characteristics of each realm but also showcased the connection points between them, reinforcing the idea that although their adventures differ, they remain part of a larger, interconnected world.
Through collaborative storytelling, we created safe spaces in each world, allowing for gentle exposure to challenge while maintaining comfort. The younger sibling, who can find tension overwhelming, was present during the creation of the darker world, making it less intimidating. We also designated zones for safety and excitement, ensuring both players find engaging content suited to their comfort levels.
As part of the process, we crafted zines: 
The Innocent Adventurer’s Guide to the Corrupt Lands
The Guilty Adventurer’s Guide to the Land of Box
In the zines, we expanded on the big map by including more detailed information about key locations via the use of keywords. Simple but evocative, keywords can enrich the narrative and help to further ground each world in a tangible, interconnected universe—all while reinforcing #executivefunctioning skills like planning, organization, and flexible thinking. For #neurodiversebrains seeing a keyword can trigger a flood of #memory and open the gates to #ideas where information hidden in a paragraph never could.
This is what Recreational Therapy in TTRPGs looks like—creating meaningful, engaging, and therapeutic play experiences that foster social connection, creativity, and self-regulation.
Can’t wait to see how their adventures unfold! 
#gametherapy#rectherapy#supportwork#ndis#autistic#adhd#dungeonsanddragons#maps#mapmaking#paperminis#worldbuilding
