• Support Group for Teens (17-19)

    Recurring

    AANE is offering an 8-week virtual group for Autistic and Neurodivergent teens aged 17-19. This group is designed to provide teens with a safe space to feel connected to and engage with each other while practicing their social skills in a facilitated setting. The group will be developed based on the interests and needs of the members.

    $180
  • Navigating Puberty and Developmental Disabilities Webinar

    Family Matters PTIC, in partnership with Easterseals Family Support Services serving Chicago and the Greater Rockford Area, is proud to offer this specialized training designed to help families and professionals navigate the unique challenges that arise during puberty for youth with intellectual disabilities.

    This interactive session provides practical tools and strategies to support youth as they experience the physical, emotional, and social changes of puberty, including:

    Typical developmental milestones during puberty

    How intellectual disabilities may impact a youth’s understanding and response to these changes

    Tools for teaching body autonomy, personal hygiene, and healthy boundaries

    Strategies for encouraging self-awareness, safety, and self-advocacy

    Approaches to discussing sensitive topics like relationships and emotional regulation in a respectful, age-appropriate way

    Participants will gain real-life examples, inclusive communication strategies, and access to valuable resources. This training empowers families and professionals to support youth with dignity, confidence, and compassion.

    Target Audience: Parents, caregivers, educators, and professionals who support youth with intellectual disabilities.

  • Social/Support Group for Trans, Non-Binary, and Gender Expansive Teens (14-19)

    Recurring

    AANE is offering a 8-week virtual group for trans, non-binary, and gender expansive Autistic or Neurodivergent teens aged 14-19. This group is designed to provide teens with a safe space to feel connected to and engage with each other while practicing their social skills in a facilitated setting. The group will be developed based on the interests and needs of the members.

    $180
  • Support Group for Gay Men

    re you a gay man in the AANE community? Have you ever wanted to share your thoughts and experiences with other Autistic gay men? Join us!

    The facilitator will send the Zoom link to the group on the day of the event.

    $10
  • Jackbox Game Night for Adults

    Join us for camaraderie and fun! We will be playing a variety of Jackbox games that we will select as a group! Most games fit about 8 participants, but are still a blast to watch! We rotate through both games and players to have a great time together!

    $10
  • Tool Time Tuesdays in July!: Fragile X Syndrome

    July is Fragile X Awareness Month! Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is a genetic disorder caused by a mutation (a change in the DNA structure) in the X chromosome. It results in a wide range of developmental, physical and behavioral problems and is the most common known cause of inherited developmental disability worldwide. The North Carolina Fragile X Foundation's mission is to improve the quality of life for those impacted by Fragile X through promoting awareness and understanding. Presented by: Steve Strom, President, NCFXF

    Free
  • Let’s Get Away Together

    Recurring

    This series is comprised of interactive sessions with each week focusing on a new place or cultural activity, while incorporating storytelling, music, poetry writing, and/or a simple craft. Each session will include a follow-up message filled with tips, activities, and recipes for families to continue to enjoy after the virtual trip. The focus of each group is to explore a new world, experience a variety of engaging opportunities, and enjoy a sense of camaraderie and community.

  • Support Group for Women (18+)

    Recurring

    This bi-weekly multi-session support group is designed for autistic and similarly neurodivergent adult women (18+) who are looking to build an ongoing connection with other women. The group is primarily a space to learn about and discuss neurodivergence, and to explore related topics chosen by the group. Topics may include:

    Masking/camouflaging
    Sensory Sensitivities and Sensory Overload
    Relationships
    Self Care
    Empathy

    The group is structured to encourage everyone to share and participate in the discussion, with respect for all members prioritized.

    $100
  • When Behavior Gets In the Way: Positive Behavior Intervention & Supports

    Learn skills that will help parents and teachers to identify and understand challenging behaviors while creating an atmosphere for positive change and support. Discover how Functional Behavior Assessments and Positive Behavior Intervention Supports can work at school and at home.

    Free
  • Support Group for Parents of Tweens (grades 4-9)

    Recurring

    This group is designed for parents and other adult family members of Autistic children in the tween range (grades 4-9). The multi-session support group provides a guaranteed spot over a set number of sessions, which creates an opportunity to develop deeper connections and receive extensive peer support from the same group members

    $180
  • Social Skills to Social Success

    Recurring

    Social Skills to Social Success is a student-centered, interactive series designed to help youth with disabilities improve their communication, relationships, and self-regulation. These skills are essential for thriving in school, work, and social settings.

    This free series is ideal for students with disabilities who affect social interaction and want to build confidence and independence.

    ? Weekly Topics:

    Session 1 (June 18): What Are Social Skills & Why Are They Important?
    Session 2 (June 25): Feelings vs. Emotions
    Session 3 (July 2): Self-Regulation & Appropriate Public Behavior
    Session 4 (July 9) Basics of Conversations & Social Skills in School & the Workplace
    Session 5 (July 16): Social Skills: Friendships
    Session 6 (July 23) Self-Advocacy

    Free