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This chapter describes the design and pilot of NeuroVivid: A Maker Camp for All Brains, a weeklong maker program created to engage and support neurodivergent middle schoolers in inclusive, meaningful STEM learning experiences. Grounded in principles of project-based learning (PBL) and Universal Design for Learning (UDL), the camp engaged participants in hands-on exploration of brain–computer interface (BCI) technology, allowing them to use their own brain signals with circuits and block coding to power small lights and motors. Through a participatory co-design process, neurodivergent teens and young adults helped create accessible, engaging activities and supports that addressed diverse sensory, executive function, and social-emotional needs. The chapter details how our intentional design of physical and social environments—combined with asset-based facilitation, choice-driven activities, and executive function scaffolds—supported autonomy, confidence, and a sense of belonging among campers. Qualitative data collected through observations, conversations, and daily feedback highlighted strong engagement, emerging STEM identities, and moments of connection and empowerment. Findings from this pilot inform the next phase of design research and contribute to a growing body of work on creating neuroinclusive STEM learning spaces that broaden participation. 

Our session will begin with a short overview of each project represented by the collaborators (who represent researchers and community partners) in the session. Then, we will facilitate table discussions where participants will be invited to share stories from their projects around accessibility and community engagement, with a particular focus on data-driven stories (findings) and working with neurodivergent individuals/communities. After tables have time to share about their projects, the session collaborators will facilitate an engagement activity designed to synthesize key ideas across projects and identify gaps where future work is needed. We will conclude the session with a whole group share-out and session conclusion.