Social Building Blocks – from YMCA of South Hampton Roads

Many parents of children with special needs, including neurodivergence, struggle to find social situations and playtime that is the right fit for their child. Introducing the NEW Social Building Blocks program through your local YMCA!

Social skills and playtime are important for all children, but they can sometimes be a struggle for kids with neurodivergence. Neurodivergent means that a person has brain differences that may impact their development and the way they interact with the world. Some examples of common diagnoses that fall under the umbrella of neurodivergence are ADHD, Autism, Dyspraxia, and Dyslexia.

Find Out More And Register For Social Building Blocks Here!

Social skills may not come naturally to a neurodivergent individual, making social interactions and building relationships with others difficult, or even overwhelming.  As a part of the Social Building Blocks program, participants, and their caregivers, will be given the opportunity to engage with one another in a welcoming and inclusive environment, creating social connections with those in their community.

Social Building Blocks is designed for 3 to 6 aged neurodivergent children, focusing on developing and practicing social skills through purposeful play.

Your child may be a good fit for the Social Building Blocks Program if:

• They are ages 3 to 6 with a neurodivergent-related diagnosis.
• Can be accompanied by a parent, guardian, caregiver, or aid.
• Have a method of communication to engage with others.

What to expect: During this program, participants will engage in structured play, music & movement, and arts and crafts activities, tailored toward turn-taking, sharing, and building connections. There will be time for individual play with enriching toys, facilitated and guided arts and crafts, and turn-taking games, along with additional time to practice skills introduced during those facilitated activities.

Find Out More And Register For Social Building Blocks Here!

Parenting a child who develops differently from their peers can feel isolating. Social Building Blocks was developed not only to help support the skills of children in the program, but to create belonging and community among their caregivers.

Locations: Social Building Blocks is being held at 16 YMCA locations throughout South Hampton Roads. Find the closest location for your family ON THIS LINK. Classes are held weekly, with a new session offered each month.

Please Note: If you have questions regarding whether your child qualifies to participate, or to request an age waiver for Social Building Blocks, please contact the YMCA location where you plan to enroll for assistance.