We talk a lot about accessible language, clear words, simple instructions and removing ambiguity. But how we communicate matters too.
For some neurodivergent people, a confrontational or unnecessarily critical comment can create significant cognitive and emotional load. Something forgotten by the sender in minutes may be replayed by the recipient for hours.
That doesn't mean avoiding disagreement or correction. It means thinking about how we deliver it. Before correcting someone, perhaps ask... am I trying to help, or simply demonstrate that they're wrong?
I've experienced enough public criticism to know the difference tone can make. It's also made me think more carefully about how I communicate with others.
We rarely know what somebody on the other side of a screen is dealing with. Be clear, challenge when necessary and correct when needed, but try to leave people with their dignity intact.
Empathy and compassion are part of accessibility too.