Creating a Seat at the Table (or a Button at the Door): The Power of Inclusive Design

As I was taking my son trick-or-treating this weekend, I got to see some impressive examples of how our communities are becoming more inclusive while still embracing traditions like door-to-door trick-or-treating.

One house that really stood out to me had placed recorded communication buttons outside for children to press to say “trick or treat” and “thank you.” I absolutely loved this idea because it offered a fun, accessible way for children to participate without anyone being singled out. Every child had the option of using the buttons, whether they needed them due to limited verbal skills or simply enjoyed the act of pushing buttons. What a wonderful way to level the playing field and ensure every child has the opportunity to participate!

Progress like this happens when people become more informed. When we understand the different ways people communicate, learn, and interact with the world, we can create opportunities that are more inclusive for everyone.

This is one of the reasons I love working as both an occupational therapist and a healthcare writer. I get to combine my clinical experience with my passion for education to help make complex health and developmental information accessible, engaging, and meaningful.

Through Neves Health Writing, I partner with healthcare organizations, medical professionals, and health-focused businesses to create evidence-based content that educates, empowers, and makes a difference. Sometimes the right information is the first step toward meaningful change.