Classes for Autism Spectrum Kids
Parent Q&A
Select any title to view the full question and replies.
Activities and classes for 2 year old with autism
–May 18, 2023Hello,
My 2 year old son was recently diagnosed with Autism. It’s been a lot of navigating services on his behalf. I’m reaching out to see if anyone knows of play groups, music classes, nature classes, art classes, ect with a focus on neurodivergent kids in Oakland/Berkeley/San Leonardo/ San Francisco.
I found a great group for Joaquin Miller Park but it’s already full. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
May 18, 2023Hi,
I have a 17-year-old daughter who has her driver's permit and is ready for driver's training. She has high functioning autism and is fearful about learning to drive. I would appreciate any recommendations for a good driving school with a patient instructor.
Thanks,
Christina
Oct 21, 2022Martial Arts programs for 10yo with autism
–Jan 22, 2022We are looking for martial arts class for my 10 year old son (he is diagnosed with autism). In general we are interested an outlet for him to exercise, gain strength, focus and confidence. I went over a few places but either they don't provide accommodations or are charging 5-6 times more than the typical rates. He is a sweet boy but would need more of an one-one or a small group class.
We moved from east coast and had excellent small group classes for kids with special needs. Just wondering if there are any programs like that in Bay Area. Looking for suggestions from parents.
Many thanks
Jan 22, 2022I am looking for a good film/media/video teacher who has experience working with young people on the autism spectrum. My son is interested in film and video and I think he could really benefit from being able to express himself creatively through this medium.
Jul 30, 2018Painting group for adult autistic son
–Dec 18, 2016My son is 29 and a very talented artist. He works at Creative Growth Art Center, a wonderful organization for adult disabled artists; he exhibits and sells his quirky artwork at their gallery openings. He is autistic, very high functioning, intellectual and of course socially awkward (I guess that's the right word). He has a lot to offer, sort of a cross between an art nerd and a Buddha, but has no outlets outside of CGAC to meet like minded/hearted people. He's lonely and would be ecstatic finding a group of painting enthusiasts to paint with, in or outside. Does anyone know of a casual painting group that would accept him into their fold? Or does anyone have any ideas about forming such a group? Please post or write to me.
Dec 18, 2016My toddler was recently diagnosed with ASD. We've worked hard the past few months and have various therapies in order. I'm now looking for lessons or classes that can accommodate my kiddo, particularly dance, swimming, gymnastics/tumbling, or music. I'd like to know if there are any local places that can accommodate a child like mine into a class or lesson. My toddler is a ton of fun but has difficulty following instructions and requires patient instructors. I've looked up a few places but reviews tend to be dated.
I'm also interested in potentially joining a support group for parents with kids on the spectrum. If there are any in Oakland, Emeryville or Berkeley, I'd love to hear about them.
Thanks!
Sep 13, 2016Lego, gaming, coding, robotics & friendships sought
–Aug 4, 2016I am looking for an after school or weekend class for my 12 1/2 year old son. He is (for lack of a better word) "high functioning" autistic, very socially motivated but with some social and emotional difficulties. He is interested in Lego, robotics, coding and gaming.He really wants to meet friends who are like him, similar in age with the same interests. The class or group would ideally include an adult familiar with the challenges of autism with the insight and expertise to help appropriately when emotional upsets and misunderstandings happen especially when they become physical. Thanks, BPN!
Aug 4, 2016
Hi there! There are many great resources in the bay are for neurodivergent kiddos. My daughter is autistic and we have a great neurodiversity affirming speech therapist we go to. Her email is here: https://www.speechandlanguagewithsupreet.com/. Another resource is an open gym area, this is in San Ramon ( a bit of a drive!), but its a sensory gym for kids with varying abilities. https://spiritedplaylabs.com/
Good luck!
Check out Spirited Play Labs!
Have you looked into Wings and swings in Alameda. A bit further but well worth it in San Ramon is Spirit d Play Labs.
Dear Cynthia:
Thank you for reaching out on behalf of your 2 year old son. Have you connected with the Regional Center of East Bay? If not, Please explore this ASAP. We have 2 grandchildren, ages 4 and 5-- both diagnosed with Autism-- living in SoCal. As a former teacher of students with special needs, I knew about the Regional Center -- in Austin, Texas-- I'm extra impressed with the centers in Calif. Here they offer a rich cornucopia of activities with other children as well as private lessons in sign language for example. After 6 months my grandchildren's abilities were noticeably greater. Last year, thru the Regional Center our kids were referred to a school geared to children with different needs/ways of learning. All the best dear mom. https://www.rceb.org/