Why We Started the Teen Social Group
- carli215
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
When we looked at what was available locally for teenagers with NDIS funding, we noticed a gap — especially during the school term.
School holidays are often filled with special programs and events, but during term time, weekends can feel empty. Many teens lose valuable opportunities to connect with peers, build life skills, and keep a steady routine. We knew there had to be a better way.
That’s how our Teen Social Group was born — a place where teens can meet regularly, have fun, and keep building their independence and confidence all year round.
🕒 Teen Social Group: Filling the Gap Between School and Holidays
Routine is important for everyone, but it’s especially valuable for young people with disability. Even on the weekend, having a regular activity to look forward to helps maintain structure, connection, and purpose.
We wanted to create a term-time program that wasn’t just another rigid timetable — but also wasn’t just “hang out and hope for the best.” It needed to be a balance of social fun, skill-building, and real choice.
🗣 Why We Keep This Social Group Less Structured
Unlike our School Holiday Day Program, which has a set schedule, the Teen Social Group is intentionally less structured. This is so teens can:
🗨 Self-advocate by choosing activities they enjoy
🔄 Practice flexibility when plans change or group decisions differ
🤝 Work collaboratively with peers
💬 Build social confidence without the pressure of a strict schedule
By encouraging participants to speak up, try new things, and negotiate choices together, we help them develop the everyday skills that will serve them well into adulthood.
🎯 The Perfect Mix: Fun + Capacity Building
Every Teen Social Group session blends fun activities with capacity building. Some weeks might involve games, community outings, or creative workshops, while others focus on shared projects, problem-solving challenges, or skill-based activities.
The goal is always the same:
🌱 Encourage independence
💬 Build communication and teamwork skills
❤️ Foster positive peer relationships
And because the group meets regularly, friendships have the chance to grow naturally — without the pressure of one-off events.
🏡 A Safe, Inclusive Space for Every Teen
We know that joining a new group can be intimidating, so we focus on creating a safe, inclusive environment where every participant feels welcome from day one. Our team understands that social skills don’t just happen — they’re learned, practiced, and nurtured over time.
For us, the Teen Social Group isn’t just another program on the calendar. It’s a space where teens can be themselves, make genuine connections, and have a voice in shaping what their weekends look like.
📍 Based on the Gold Coast
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