For many individuals with special needs, finding and maintaining friendships can be a challenge. Delayed social skills, communication barriers, lack of transportation and behavioral challenges are just a few of the reasons that so many struggle in this area. And it’s hard to balance the need for relationships with typically developing peers with the need for guided instruction in developing appropriate social skills.
Each situation is different, but here are some organizations that are working hard to target the unique social needs of children, teens and adults with special needs.
League of Friends (outings): 3rd-5th grade & 6th-12th grade
Allstars (social skills classes): pre-k through 12th grade
Future Allstars (summer camp)
Meet-ups: Pre-k, K-5th, middle school and high school, young adults (up to age 26)
Teen Talk (discussions about relevant topics): 6th-12th grade
Just Girl Time Please (discussions & outings): 6th-12th grade
Rising Stars (self-development program): ages 16-26
Sailing into Adulthood (life-skills program): ages 17-26
Centauri program (independence development): ages 16-26
A place where adults with special learning needs can grow in their relationship with God and build connections with others
Individuals will study the bible together, do service projects and have fun events such as holiday parties and bingo nights
Thursdays at 6-7pm
At Irving Bible Church
Ages 4-16
Activities designed to develop faith in Jesus via games, songs, scripture memory and Biblical principals
At Friendship Baptist Church in The Colony
Daily opportunities for individuals ages 16+
As individuals interact with others, real friendships are formed, family life improves and more fulfilling jobs and volunteer opportunities are possible
Connecting Cool Kids: ages 3rd-8th grade with high-functioning autism/Asperger’s
Adults with Asperger’s Support Group
Teen Social Group: ages 13-18 with high-functioning autism/Asperger’s
At Young Life Capernaum club individuals with disabilities dance around, play games, build friendships, and share the good news about Jesus
Resources and events for children and adults with Down Syndrome as well as parents and siblings
Down Syndrome Partnership of N. Texas
Support individuals with Down Syndrome, their families and caregivers.
Different programs and events available monthly
One-to-one friendships, employment and leadership development for teens & young adults
Helping teens and adults with special needs learn to advocate for themselves and others
A place for adults with disabilities to learn new skills and make new friends!
Day classes range in activities including art, adaptive tennis, ceramics, martial arts, yoga, tie-dye, science etc
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1-4pm
Social club for adults with special needs
Some events include bowling, movie nights, talent shows, basketball, game nights etc
The Friendship Circle of Dallas
Free social programs for teens and young adults with all abilities
ABA-based social skills groups:
Social groups for children ages 3-11 in the DFW area
The goal for these groups is to teach children the language and social skills necessary to initiate and maintain relationships
Club Metro with Southlake Adaptive Rec
A range of adaptive activities for individuals with disabilities
Social skills group designed for school aged children who need help making friends.
Activities include science, art, music, academic enrichment, technology and gaming
For SNAP members who enjoy reading and can read at a 6th grade level
Offers a fun social experience and provides information regarding issues unique to woman including self advocacy, personal safety, community services, and healthy self image
Activities include arts and crafts, fitness and games
4th Tues. of the month from 6:30-8:30
An employment and life skills club
Guest speakers from the business world come to give tips and advice
Life skills training may include housekeeping, money skills, nutrition, and interpersonal skills.
1st Tues. of the month from 6:30-8:30
Monthly workshops to move participants closer towards greater responsibility and freedom of choice
Workshop topics include; responsibility and freedom, healthy relationships and communication, nutrition and meal planning, navigating relationships and conflict resolution
Provides male members with information and encouragement regarding issues specific to men such as self reliance, greater independence, mens health, teamwork, safety and community services
Activities could include; basketball, cookouts, self defense instructions, games etc
4th Fri. of the month from 6:30-8:30
This program was developed to help members living on their own and help with communication skills
Monthly, ages 18+
For individuals with Down Syndrome age 18+
Programs include educational, social, health and wellness opportunities
For individuals with special needs age 16+
Activities include board games, card games, ping pong, puzzles and craft, while learning about Jesus.
Thursdays 10am-12pm
Tuesdays 1:30-3pm
An app for social skills groups to help teens with communication and social obstacles
Directing My Life Community Connection Days
Mixture of structured staff led activities and planned unstructured social times for teens and young adults with disabilities
Carrollton: Every 3rd Saturday, 12pm-5pm
Denton: Every 4th Saturday, 1pm-6pm