Sigma Alpha Iota

sai-national.org • Summer 2025 29 Inclusion These documents often include supporting photographs or illustrations for each step of the narrative. The St. Louis Symphony, Opera Omaha, Rochester Philharmonic, Virginia Symphony and Omaha Symphony all have excellent examples of these documents on their websites. Though many online examples are crafted for school-age children, Social Narratives can be useful for any age group. Social Narratives create a path to participation for those who might otherwise feel overwhelmed by attending public events. Industry expert Roger Ideishi explores this overwhelm by examining the "journey matrix" that those with ASD and ADHD navigate. This is "the complex physical, social, and emotional tasks a person identifies, sequences, coordinates, and implements to participate and engage in meaningful community life." In short, those with ASD and ADHD may find it more taxing to navigate daily tasks and a Social Narrative is an excellent way to lessen the overall strain of their mental load. Providing documents that clearly outline what a person may expect during an event creates an inclusive and welcoming space for all potential participants and can reduce anxiety around unfamiliar situations. Chapters may consider creating a Social Narrative for a variety of activities such as recruitment events, meetings, or musicales. For example, a Social Narrative about chapter meetings could outline directions to the meeting location, seating arrangements, restroom access, the general agenda, expected duration, and number of participants. It might also include social norms, such as waiting for designated times to ask questions or share ideas. Collegiate chapters may also wish to create Social Narratives for use by the music department as they present concerts to the general public. This could be an excellent service project that would benefit many people in the student body. To create a Social Narrative, start by selecting the event you want to feature and what format would be the best way to distribute the information. Paper copies could be available at events, or the document could be posted on the chapter website (check with your PO to make sure anything you post aligns with SAI regulations). Work with your chapter to find the best approach for your needs. Next, list all the steps a participant might experience. Refine the list by organizing it in a clear, sequential order. Write each step in the first-person, aiming to keep it concise and manageable. Once you've established the verbal component, add visual references for each step. These can be in the form of photos, drawings, or videos. They should directly correlate to the action of each step. Finally, proofread the document, add any graphics or additional information you think is pertinent, and distribute in advance of the event so participants can familiarize themselves with it. Throughout the development process, consider collaborating with local ASD and ADHD support groups, campus disability services, and building services. Their insights can help ensure the narrative is both practical and inclusive. This collaborative approach not only strengthens the resource but also fosters meaningful connections within the community. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure neurodivergent individuals feel supported and safe within our sisterhood. By outlining expectations and reducing uncertainty, Social Narratives support neurodivergent individuals—particularly those with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder—in participating more fully and comfortably in performances, meetings, and other chapter activities. Creating Social Narratives involves careful planning, collaboration with support organizations, and thoughtful presentation through both written and visual elements. As Sigma Alpha Iota continues to uphold its mission, integrating Social Narratives into our practices represents a tangible and compassionate way to make our events more welcoming to all. Through intentional inclusion, we strengthen not only our individual chapters but the broader musical community as well. Karen Birch Blundell is a member of the New York Alumnae Chapter and a recipient of the Rose of Dedication. She is a professional oboist, a teaching artist, and an advocate for neurodivergence in music. Visit her website at karenbirchblundell.com. 2022 National Convention attendees watch mezzo-soprano 2022 National Convention attendees watch mezzo-soprano Cassandra Petrie and pianist Jasmin Arakawa at the Dinner of Honors. Cassandra Petrie and pianist Jasmin Arakawa at the Dinner of Honors.

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