One-line definition
A check-in is the act of confirming physical state, emotions, limits, and consent before, during, and after a scene.
Full definition
A check-in can be as simple as “colour?” mid-scene, a thumb squeeze when someone is gagged, or a quiet “how are you doing?” during a pause. Its job is to surface information the scene itself might be masking, such as numbness, distress, or drifting awareness, without breaking the dynamic more than necessary. Experienced players build check-ins into the rhythm of a scene instead of treating them as interruptions.
Related terms
- Aftercare
- Debrief
- Consent
- Subspace