The “tween” years can be difficult socially for all kids. Navigating the waters of friendship, being too old for little kid activities, with little social outlet even for neurotypical kids can cause anxiety for both kids and parents looking for something for them to do.
Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder, or who are “different” in any way can find this even more challenging.
Two local moms, Rose Forrest, and Beth Jansen, both of whom have sons that are rising sixth graders, have started an informal social “hangout” group, Broadneck Autism Allies, for local kids, ages 8-14, with or without a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
The group meets from 6:30 to 8:30 Fridays (except the third Friday of the month) at Cape St. Claire United Methodist Church, 855 Chestnut Tree Drive, in Cape St. Claire. Everybody brings things to do; board games, chess, apples to apples, even Nerf guns for an outside “epic Nerf battle.”
While WIFI is available, it doesn’t often get used. When the group first started, Forrest says that her son James brought a device. Now he doesn’t even bring his phone.
At present, between six to 12 kids attend regularly. While the group is informal, this is not a “drop-off” group.
Forrest emphasizes that while they need to attend, parents are not engaged.
“We try to stand back, let kids practice communication skills and work (conflicts) out,” she said. “She also adds that the group is fun for neurotypical kids too, and gives them the benefit of interacting with kids that may be operating from a different framework. Anyone is welcome.”
Jensen said that since her son Andrew was diagnosed at 3, it’s important to get families with kids on the spectrum or any other type of diagnosis out to socialize and have fun.
“Families tend to hide out at home to avoid social situations,” she said. “Now that our kids are going to the ‘dreaded’ middle school it’s important to give them this sense of security with kids having the same experiences. They know they have this group they can turn to and a place to be themselves.
“And it’s in a Friday after holding it together at school all week… they get to decompress. I would love for any others out there needing this experience to join us.”
If you have questions, contact Forrest 443.851.2857 or Beth Jensen at [email protected].
Fastest Server on the Bay
A fundraiser for the Annapolis Immigration Justice Network is scheduled from 1 to 5 p.m. Monday at Sandy Point State Park.
Fastest Servers on the Bay pits 20 area restaurants servers competing with trays in an obstacle course relay race for the title to benefit the network.
There will be food, music, and a silent auction table. This is a cash-only event. The main contact person for this event, as well as for the Network, itself, is Suzanne Martin at 443-223-6810. For more information see the link on The Point Crab House Website.
