Let's Just Talk - Weekly Chat

In this warm and welcoming weekly meetup, learners have a safe space to express themselves, share their interests, and connect with peers in a structured yet flexible environment. Whether you're naturally outgoing or tend to be quieter, this class provides the perfect balance of support and freedom to help you develop your communication skills and self-expression.

What to Expect
Each 30-minute session follows a gentle, predictable structure that allows for both spontaneous conversation and guided discussion:
- Opening check-in where everyone shares their week's highlights or challenges
- Show-and-tell opportunity (optional but encouraged)
- Open discussion time where learners can deep-dive into their current interests
- Weekly reflection and closing thoughts
- We might use conversation prompts but won't use the whiteboard or any external sites  for games.  This particular class is all about talking.  

Examples of Topics we can explore (Learner Led): 

⇢ Week 1: Meeting someone for the first time greetings and questions

⇢ Week 2: Be the detective

⇢ Week 3: Find what we have in common

⇢ Week 4: The offer instead of questions

✺◟(＾∇＾)◞✺ Who This Class is For ✺◟(＾∇＾)◞✺
This class welcomes neurodivergent and neurotypical learners ages 13-17. Whether you're autistic, have ADHD, or are simply looking for a supportive space to practice social skills, you'll find an accepting community here. The class is particularly beneficial for:
- Teens who want to build confidence in social situations
- Learners who want conversation opportunities without games as the vehicle to  generate them. 

Get to know when you need a break and how to be responsive to your own needs.  We will discuss strategies for self-advocacy. 

 ฅᨐฅ   What to Bring
- An object, photo, or topic you'd like to share
- An open mind and willingness to listen to others
- Your current interests or recent experiences to discuss
- Questions about topics that interest you that another learner has shared about previously (great opener and shows interest in others!)

👋Class Features
- Small group size (maximum 5 learners) to ensure everyone gets speaking time
- Flexible participation levels - share as much or as little as you're comfortable with
- Visual cues and clear communication guidelines to help manage turn-taking
- Regular opportunities to practice both speaking and active listening skills
- Optional conversation prompts and topics available if needed

  
🤗Note to Parents
This class provides a supportive environment where your teen can practice social skills in a low-pressure setting. The instructor ensures all participants feel heard and respected while gently encouraging engagement at each learner's comfort level. There is no homework or preparation required, though learners are encouraged to think about what they might like to share each week

Join us for engaging conversations, shared interests, and the opportunity to build lasting connections in a supportive, neurodiversity-affirming environment.

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Please also be aware that if this class does not reach minimum enrollment (2 learners or more), the class will be cancelled for that week.  

Please note: this is not to be confused with masking our uniqueness with scripts or forced behavioral changes, we will NOT encourage that. We do not follow ABA Behavioral Intervention practices.  We use a strength based supportive and inclusive approach.