Neurodivergent Design System

Adequate contrast between text and background is essential for legibility, especially for users with low vision, color blindness, or cognitive differences. High-contrast design not only improves accessibility but also reduces eye strain and enhances comprehension for all users 

✖️ Neurodivergent Unfriendly | Vibrant colors refer to hues that are highly saturated, intense, and often visually stimulating. Even if a color combination technically passes the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) for contrast ratio (typically 4.5:1 for normal text), it can still cause discomfort or eye strain.

✔️ Neurodivergent Friendly | Vibrant colors refer to hues that are highly saturated, intense, and often visually stimulating. Even if a color combination technically passes the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) for contrast ratio (typically 4.5:1 for normal text), it can still cause discomfort or eye strain 

✔️ Neurodivergent Friendly | Dark and Light Backgrounds: Pure black and pure white backgrounds, despite often passing WCAG contrast ratios (typically 4.5:1 for normal text), can generate visual intensity or 'vibration.' This extreme contrast can cause discomfort, leading to eye strain and reduced comprehension for neurodivergent individuals and others with visual sensitivities.

Use color to support meaning, not define it. Green should be used to indicate success or correct responses, while red should signal errors or negative outcomes. However, color alone should never be the only method of communication. Many users, including those who are neurodivergent or colorblind, may interpret colors differently or miss subtle visual cues. Always pair color with clear text, icons, or patterns to ensure accessibility for everyone.

Prioritize clarity with bullet points. Dense paragraphs can overwhelm users and reduce readability, especially for neurodivergent individuals or those scanning for key information. Bullet points break content into digestible chunks, making it easier to process, navigate, and retain. 

Writing in active voice makes content more direct and easier to follow. Accessible language supports users with cognitive disabilities, non-native speakers, and screen reader users.

A phoneword is a phone number that spells out a word using the letters linked to each digit on a telephone keypad. For example, dialing 1300 FLIGHT means entering 1300 354 448. While phonewords can support recall and branding, they may not be intuitive for everyone, especially neurodivergent individuals or those unfamiliar with regional keypad systems. 

Labeling in graphics and information design isn’t just a finishing touch,  it’s a vital part of making content understandable, accessible,