MUKILTEO AUTISM SOCIAL GROUP
Nature Together is partnering with Meg Stockbridge, owner of Our Learning Circle, to offer an ongoing autism social group for children in 3rd through 8th grade. This is an opportunity for neurodiverse children to socialize and meet new friends. The group will be led by Meg and Kris, both mothers with children on the spectrum. They will follow the children’s interests and guide conversation when needed. As the children grow and learn to interact with each other, they will learn social and executive functioning skills that will set them up for success.
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We will follow a basic structure for each meeting:
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Greetings and introductions
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Sharing of what we’ve been up to
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Lego and social skills work
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Sharing of upcoming plans
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Goodbyes
Location:
For our first meeting, we will meet at Rosehill Community Center on July 20th from 10:15-11:45. Lego & Duplo will be provided to encourage the children to work together on a common task.
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About Meg
Meg Stockbridge PhD MEd is the owner of Our Learning Circle. She is a neuroscientist and educator with over 20 years of experience working with clients to reach their academic potential. She is passionate about providing students with autism the tools to succeed in and out of school. Meg lives in Mukilteo with her partner and 2 children.
About Kris
Kris Hammer is the owner of Nature Together, a nature-based outdoor school. She has been teaching for over 20 years to children of all ages and neurodiversities. She has a M.S in curriculum and instruction from Northern Illinois University. She has a son on the spectrum and feels passionate about creating inclusive opportunities for neurodiverse kids. Kris lives in Mukilteo with her husband, 3 kids, 2 dogs, and 2 birds.
FAQ
Do I drop my child off?
No, this is a group that includes parents because parents need support too! You can use this time to get to know other parents, share inspirations or struggles, learn of resources and more. If you prefer to not stay, that’s ok, but we ask that you stay in the building in case your child needs extra support.
What should my child bring?
If you think your child would get hungry or thirsty during the 90 minutes, pack a favorite snack and drink. Also, if there is an item of comfort your child likes to have, they can bring that too.
What if my child is not interested in what’s being offered?
That is ok, we will work with them at their comfort level. This is student led and the goal is for everyone to feel included, supported and to gain social and executive functioning skills. This is done at your child’s pace.
What if my child has gets overwhelmed and has a meltdown?
That is ok. Kris and Meg are experienced in this area and will work with you and your child to become regulated. When registering, please feel out the inquiry form with as much detail about your child so we have a good idea of what to expect and what we can offer to help. The classroom also has a door connected to a large green space so if your child feels better outside they can take a break.