BRAVE Speech & Language Services
FRIENDSHIP GROUPS
Helping each child and family find their BRAVE voice
FRIENDSHIP GROUPS FOR CHILDREN WITH AUTISM
At BRAVE, our Friendship Groups provide a safe and supportive space for children on the Autism spectrum to build meaningful social connections, develop relationships, and foster a sense of belonging. Rooted in a developmental and connection-driven approach, our groups focus on helping children navigate social interactions in a natural, play-based, and supportive environment.
We use guided activities, interactive games, and real-life experiences, to help children learn essential skills such as turn-taking, perspective-taking, emotional regulation, and collaborative problem-solving.
Facilitated by experienced clinicians, our Friendship Groups create opportunities for children to form bonds and gain confidence in interacting with peers—all while feeling understood and included.
Friendship & Social Play Group for 4- to 6-Year-Olds
Building Early Connections Through Play & Shared Joy
Our Friendship & Social Play Group is designed for 4- to 6-year-old children on the autism spectrum who are developing foundational social engagement skills. This small, supportive group helps children learn to connect with peers, take turns, and play games together in a fun and structured environment.
Through engaging activities, children will:
- Practice sharing attention and responding to peers
- Learn turn-taking skills in play and conversation
- Follow simple game rules while developing flexibility and cooperation
- Build self-regulation strategies for managing waiting and transitions
- Develop social confidence through positive, supported interactions
Our group is created by our lead Speech – Language Pathologist, Narmilee Dhayanandhan, and guided by experienced professionals using developmentally appropriate, play-based approaches tailored to each child’s unique strengths and needs. We create a warm, engaging space where children can grow their social skills at their own pace while having fun with new friends
- Schedule : Weekly Sundays 3:00-4:00pm offered quarterly throughout the year. Next Session starts September 14 2025.
- Group Size : Small group for individualized support
- For More Information or to Register : email info@bravespeech.ca
To qualify for the group, you must follow the 4-step process
Building Friendships Group for 6- to 9-Year-Olds
Growing Social Confidence Through Friendship & Fun
Our Building Friendships Group is designed for 6- to 9-year-old children on the autism spectrum who are developing their understanding of how to build friendships with like-minded peers. This group helps children who have similar interests engage with peers, have conversations, develop problem-solving, and perspective-taking through interactive activities.
Children in this group will:
- Practice initiating and responding to peers in conversations and play
- Learn collaborative problem-solving and how to navigate social challenges
- Develop early perspective-taking by recognizing others’ emotions and reactions
- Build turn-taking and sportsmanship while playing interactive games
- Strengthen flexibility and teamwork in structured activities
Our BRAVE friendships groups are created by our lead Speech – Language Pathologist Narmilee Dhayanandhan and guided by experienced professionals. We create a fun, welcoming space where children can develop confidence in social situations while making meaningful connections. Using evidence-based, relationship-focused approaches, we tailor our activities to each child’s strengths and support their growth at their own pace.
- Schedule : Weekly Sundays 1:00-2:00 pm offered quarterly throughout year. Next Session starts September 14 2025.
- Group Size : Small group for individualized support
- For More Information or to Register : email info@bravespeech.ca
To qualify for the group, you must follow the 4-step process
4-Step Process for Building Friendships at BRAVE
Comprehensive Communication & Language Evaluation
A Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) assesses the child’s communication strengths and needs, including expressive and receptive language, social communication, play skills, and self-regulation abilities to determine their readiness for a Friendship Group.
Personalized Friendship Readiness Plan
Based on the evaluation, a customized plan is created to support the child’s social engagement, emotional regulation, and communication goals, ensuring they have the foundational skills needed to participate meaningfully in peer interactions.
Pre-Group Coaching & Skill Development
Children may receive individual or small-group coaching to build skills in turn-taking, perspective-taking, flexible thinking, and emotional expression before joining a larger group. Parent coaching is also provided to help families support their child’s social growth at home and in the community.
Friendship Group Placement & Ongoing Support
Once ready, the child is placed in a Friendship Group that matches their regulation needs, communication style, and language goals, ensuring a supportive and engaging environment where they can develop meaningful relationships, practice social communication, and gain confidence in peer interactions. Regular progress monitoring and parent feedback ensure continued growth and success
Spaces are limited—register now for the process to be part of the next session!
GET STARTED WITH BRAVE TODAY
Location
Located in the heart of Ajax, Ontario
Phone
(416) 738-5775
info@bravespeech.ca
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Culturally Responsive Autism Care
Bridging Connection, Compassion, and Co-Regulation