A Sea Of Friends.

A Sea of Friends is a neuro-affirming, play-based social group designed for children in the middle primary years who benefit from additional support to build social confidence, communication, and friendship skills.

This group recognises that every child connects, communicates, and plays in their own unique way — and all ways of being are welcomed and valued here.

Guided by the principles of AutPlay Therapy, this semi-structured group provides a safe, supportive environment where children can explore friendships, share ideas, and practise social skills through play. Children are encouraged to lead, collaborate, and try new experiences at their own pace, while being gently supported by the therapist.

A Sea of Friends is a place where children feel accepted, understood, and encouraged — building skills, confidence, and meaningful connections through play in a way that feels safe, fun, and engaging.

Who Is This Group Suitable For?

This group may be beneficial for children who:

• Experience challenges with social confidence or friendship skills

• Find group play or peer interaction tricky

• Children who may be a bit more shy, anxious or are neurodiverse.

• Middle primary school aged children

The group is strengths-based and focuses on supporting each child’s social development without pressure to conform or mask.

Program Outline

This play-based program gently guides children through themes that support the development of key social and play skills, including:

• Sharing play ideas and cooperative play

• Turn-taking, winning and losing

• Following directions and flexibility in play

• Conversation and communication skills

• Making and maintaining friendships

• Developing a positive sense of self

• Exploring tricky friendship moments and “friendship drama” in a safe, supportive way

Parent Involvement

An initial Parent and Child appointment is held prior to the group commencing to learn more about your child’s strengths, needs, and goals, and to support a smooth introduction to the group.

A Parent Check-In is held at the end of each term to share observations, engagement, and feedback.

Group sizes are kept small and intentional to support connection, safety, and meaningful participation.

Group Details

Commencing: Saturday 14 February 2026
Schedule: Fortnightly sessions across Term 1 and Term 2
Time: 11:00am – 11:45am (45 minutes)
Cost: $113 per session

Please note: Sessions do not run on public holidays or during school holidays.

NDIS fees may be claimed for Plan-Managed and Self-Managed participants.

Session Focus Areas

• Teamwork and collaboration – listening, sharing ideas, turn-taking, and communicating

• Structured play – working together, winning and losing, and being a good sport

• Flexible thinking – navigating unexpected changes and problem-solving together

• Building self-worth – strengthening confidence and a positive sense of self

• Friendships – exploring conflict, tricky social moments, and being brave in peer interactions

A Sea of Friends — where children come to play, connect, grow, and have fun.