Welcome to Inclusive Curling
Neurodiversity is a natural part of human variation. Many people experience the world through heightened sensory input, unique communication styles, or different ways of learning. Too often, those differences can create barriers to participation in sport. With just a few simple changes Inclusive Curling is able to make Curling for Every Kind of Mind with things like:
Neurodiversity is a natural part of human variation. Many people experience the world through heightened sensory input, unique communication styles, or different ways of learning. Too often, those differences can create barriers to participation in sport. With just a few simple changes Inclusive Curling is able to make Curling for Every Kind of Mind with things like Quieter Environments, Dimmed Lighting, Predictable Structure, and Neuro-Affirming Coaches.
Quieter
Environments
Dimmed
Lighting
Predictable
Structure
Neuro-Affirming
Coaches
Stones, Sweeps and Neurodiverse Peeps
Founder of Inclusive Curling
My name is Nicky Kaufman, and I was recently diagnosed with Autism and ADHD. That moment reshaped the way I see both my struggles and my strengths, and it made me realize just how much the game of curling has given me. Curling has been my anchor for over 25 years, teaching me confidence, teamwork, leadership, and giving me a community I deeply value. I honestly don’t know where I’d be without it. That’s why I feel such a strong responsibility to create spaces where others like me can step onto the ice and experience not only the sport, but the same sense of belonging and possibility it has given me.
At Inclusive Curling, Everyone Belongs
Curling can become a sport where neurodivergent athletes feel safe, welcome, and able to thrive.
That’s why I started Inclusive Curling. This initiative is about more than just trying a new sport. It’s about creating a space where kids, teens, and adults can feel understood, accepted, and valued exactly as they are. It’s also about showing that curling is a sport for everyone, regardless of age, gender, race, sexual orientation, or neurotype.
Featured on
CTV News Edmonton
★★★★★
“I was so impressed how well this was run. My child was in great hands and was able to learn about something new. She really enjoyed herself. It’s rare to find things that customize so well for Neurodivergent children. We will tell everyone about this amazing program.”
Crystal K.
Mom
★★★★★
“I really enjoy this! I liked how the lights were turned down, and there wasn’t any yelling or loud noises. Everyone was so patient with me as I was trying to figure it out. I would try curling again”
Charisma R.
Participant
★★★★★
“Curling is kinda like Math! I liked that. My favourite was using the stick to throw the rock and seeing them smash. I liked that my dad could come on the ice with me too. It was fun.”
Brody B.
Participant
★★★★★
“Curling is actually really fun. I liked how we got stamps at each station after we learnt it. I liked the sweeping one the best and the game we played. I liked the quiet room in the locker room.”
Emerson C.
Participant
★★★★★
“My daughter had never tried curling before, and the Stones Sweeps and Neurodiverse peeps was the perfect opportunity to try it for the first time! The small groups and low pressure really helped her open up and give everything a try. She also loved stamping her passport at the stations, maybe even more than the curling! Overall a great experience and we can’t wait to sign up for the next one.”
Mike H.
Dad
★★★★★
“I like curling! I like all of them!”
(when asked which station she liked best)
Elizabeth H.
Participant
Growing Inclusive Curling
Curling has come a long way in embracing equality and diversity, but there is still work to do. By starting conversations, piloting programs, and building resources for clubs across Canada, my hope is to help close those gaps and grow the game we love in a way that truly reflects the richness of our communities.