Family Initiative launches weekly programs, activities to reach families with children on the autism spectrum
CAPE CORAL, Fla. – Family Initiative has launched additional programs and playgroups for children and families diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
“By listening to the children and families we serve, Family Initiative has created new programs that address the needs of their entire family, including siblings, as well as expanding our reach to new parents looking to support their child’s growth,” said David Brown, president and co-founder of Family Initiative. “Through peer programs, children, young adults, and their caregivers can find connection, compassion, and understanding. With innovative clinical services, families have access to evidence-based support and expertise so they can feel empowered and confident in their child’s care.”
For children with sisters or brothers with ASD, Family Initiative now offers a Sibling Group on Mondays from 4:30-6 p.m. at the Autism Support Center, 734 SW 4th St., in Cape Coral. The Sibling Group was created to offer a space just for them-a place to come together with other siblings who walk a similar journey. This group offers a little fun and a little conversation-whatever they feel like they need each week-most times a little of both. The weekly drop-in program is open to anyone who has a sibling with an Autism diagnosis.
On Tuesdays from 4:30-6 p.m., Family Initiative offers FI Creates, a unique and engaging class offered weekly to allow participants the opportunity to explore their creative side. Programs include art, music, dance and yoga. The cost is $40 and the class is held weekly and rotates between Family Initiative’s Autism Support Center, 734 SW 4th St., Cape Coral or Christ Community Church, 4050 Colonial Blvd.
On Wednesdays from 4:30-6:30 p.m., the Teen Group offers teenagers ages 14-19 years old a place where everyone can be themselves, where they can talk and hangout with peers without worrying about knowing the “right way” to engage. These six-week cycles are focused on developing those social skills through a combination of clinical engagement and super fun activities for teens. For the last session of every cycle, the group ventures into the community for a fun outing. The group meets at Family Initiative’s Autism Support Center, 734 SW 4th St., Cape Coral.
A new Young Adult Group is being offered for adults ages 20-30 to provide a space for them to come together and share their experiences while having fun. The Young Adult Group will talk about life, work, relationships, and anything else important to the crew. Plans include a community outing each month to put into practice all the things discussed throughout each cycle. The group meets at Family Initiative’s Autism Support Center, 734 SW 4th St., Cape Coral.
For infants, Family Initiative’s new Baby & Me class is held on the second and fourth Saturday of the month from 10-11 a.m. This program is focused on preparing children for daycare or preschool, for those looking for an opportunity for their little ones to learn to play with others while learning the best way to support their child’s growth. Activities include exploring, creating, singing, and dancing-all things that help young ones learn language, social skills, and develop their sensory systems. Baby & Me is held at Family Initiative’s Autism Support Center, 734 SW 4th St., Cape Coral.
Free Autism Screenings are offered on Saturdays by appointment. In the first three years of life, babies are growing and changing so much from day to day. Developmental milestones set a course for this growth, and when your child does not meet these, it can cause stress and anxiety. For parents or guardians with concerns about your child’s development, Family Initiative is here for you. Free Autism Screenings are offered each month to identify and intervene early to help link you with any support you may need. These screenings are designed for children 1-3 years old and do not provide a diagnosis.
In addition, Family Initiative’s ASD Social Skills Playgroup, its hallmark program, continues Saturdays at Christ Community Church from 1-4 p.m. The playgroup provides a unique, safe, fun, and supportive environment for children to connect with their peers to develop socialization skills, friendships, and a social network through fun activities. Family Initiative’s team of experienced Applied Behavior Analysis and Occupational Therapy clinicians offer a high level of skill and can support each child’s unique needs while promoting positive social interaction in a fun, supportive, and safe environment.
To register or for more information, call 239-910-0712 or email info@fi-florida.org.
About Family Initiative
Established in 2015, Family Initiative, Inc. is a Florida-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to supporting children with autism and strengthening their families. Its team of clinicians serves children from compassionate, personalized approach through Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Occupational Therapy (OT) services, and offers autism play groups, teen meetings, parent education, community conversations and more. In addition, the organization provides child welfare caregiver training and support through its Family Impact Program. Visit fi-florida.org or find Family Initiative on Facebook and Instagram at @FamilyInitiative and on Twitter at @FI_Inc.
