08/25/2026
If I started coaching neurodivergent athletes tomorrow, these are the 5 things I’d focus on FIRST 👇
Not diagnoses.
Not trying to memorize a list of “Autism strategies.”
Not figuring out how to make every athlete listen, comply, or fit into the way I’ve always coached.
I’d start here:
1. Get curious about behavior instead of trying to control it.
Instead of asking, “How do I get them to stop?” I’d ask, “What am I observing? What might this be telling me?”
2. Prioritize connection before correction.
Before perfect lines, listening ears, or immediate compliance, I want my athletes to know: You are safe with me. I’m here to help you.
3. Make sensory tools normal and accessible.
Headphones. Movement breaks. Visuals. Fidgets. Quiet spaces. These aren’t rewards athletes have to earn. They’re tools.
4. Actually TEACH the expectations.
“Go to bars.” “Wait your turn.” “Watch me.” “Do three and rotate.”
Those are skills! Some athletes need them demonstrated, practiced, repeated, or supported with visuals.
5. Stop measuring progress only by gymnastics skills.
Staying with the group for one more station is progress.
Asking for a break instead of running away is progress.
Trying something that feels scary is progress.
Communicating “no” is progress.
Coming back after becoming overwhelmed is progress.
Because sometimes THAT is the progression that eventually makes the gymnastics skill possible.
You don’t need to become a therapist to coach neurodivergent athletes.
You need better coaching tools. 🧡
Follow All-In Gym Training if you’re ready to become a more inclusive coach.
