Experienced Storytellers - Overview
This article is targeted towards experienced Storytellers who are new to social skill mentoring or have not worked with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities before. This article covers the general modifications that help tailor a group for these purposes.
Suggested Modifications:
Create a clearly structured (and written out) routine for transitioning into and out of play. For example, I always start with “when last we left off...” and end with “and that's where we will end today's session.”
Utilize Check-In and Check-Out questions before and after game time. My go to check-in question is “what is a goal that you have for your character this session?” 2 of my 3 check-out questions are non-negotiable. The first is “Shine a spotlight on somebody else for making the session more fun for you.” The second is “What do you predict will happen next time, or something that you're looking forward to happening next time?” The third checkout question can vary, but my advice is “what is something you learned or found challenging about today's session?”
Consider the Game-To-Grow Checklist of Social Skills and try to include an opportunity for players to practice at least one of them each scene. (i.e. turn-taking in combat teaches patience). The Checklist of Social Skills gets it’s own separate article.
The role of Session Zero is of greater importance than usual. It is very important to discuss table norms and learn what accommodations your players need. This is also when you should discuss what can or cannot be included within the game you’ll be playing. This is so important that it gets it’s own bullet point below.
The No, Yes, and Offscreen Lists: These are the most important part of a session zero. This is where the players and storyteller determine what subject matter can or cannot be a part of the collaborative story of the TTRPG. Subject matter on the “NO” list cannot be included in the story of the game. Subject matter in the “YES” list are the things the players are actively interested in participating in. Subject matter in the “Offscreen” list is stuff that is not forbidden from being in the game, but shouldn't be center-stage. When working with individuals with communication difficulties, it is vitally important that you take some time before you begin playing to discuss boundaries.