For Individuals with Autism:
My Autism Connection, Inc.
For adults age 18-50 with Autism, My Autism Connection offers social and experiential learning experiences to transition towards independence for work and life. Member activities include podcasting classes, driving instruction, career tours, movie nights, creative writing workshops, and cooking classes. They currently are based in Ft. Meyers, Florida and are working on opening a Tampa location soon.
My Autism Connection is seeking members who:
Buddy Break by Nathaniel’s Hope
Buddy Break by Nathaniel’s Hope is a free respite program designed to give caregivers of children with special needs, known as “VIP kids,” a much-needed break from caregiving responsibilities. The program offers a safe and engaging environment where VIP kids, along with their siblings, can enjoy activities like games, music, crafts, and storytelling. Sessions typically last three hours and occur monthly at partnering churches and community centers.
Each child is paired one-on-one with a trained volunteer “Buddy” who ensures they have a positive experience. Buddy Break not only allows children to form friendships but also provides parents the opportunity to rest, run errands, or spend quality time with family. The program aims to reduce caregiver stress, which is often significant for families of children with disabilities.
To get involved, families can sign up their children, or individuals can volunteer as Buddies through participating locations across the country. This initiative emphasizes community engagement and offers meaningful ways to support families with children who have special needs.
For more information, visit the official site: Nathaniel’s Hope Buddy Break
For Parents & Support Groups
For families and caregivers of individuals with autism, Pinellas County offers a variety of support groups and social opportunities. The NAMI Family Support Group provides peer-led, confidential support for caregivers of individuals with mental health conditions, meeting both virtually and in person. The Across the Spectrum Parent Support Group, offered by the Autism Society of Florida, holds monthly virtual meetings for parents of children with autism. Parents Helping Parents (PHP), also offers several support groups for parents and caregivers of individuals with autism, with specialized groups depending on age and where on the spectrum the individual lies.
Workshops and Seminars
Educational seminars and workshops are essential for staying informed and improving caregiving skills. The Family Network on Disabilities of Florida provides workshops focusing on disability rights, navigating special education, and behavior management techniques. NAMI Pinellas County also offers educational programs, including NAMI Basics, a program specifically designed for caregivers of children with mental health conditions. The Florida State University Autism Institute also offers the Autism Navigator online learning program for both service providers and families to better serve young children with or at risk of autism spectrum disorder. Courses are FREE for Florida Residents.
Caregivers and families can find continuous support through online communities. Platforms like MyAutismTeam provide a space for parents and caregivers of individuals with autism to connect, share experiences, and seek advice. Additionally, the Autism Society of Florida offers online forums and virtual spaces for parents to engage with others who are facing similar challenges, promoting a supportive environment where experiences and resources can be shared. Parents Helping Parents also provides families and caregivers with an E-Learning Library full of a wealth of resources to educate, connect, and inform caregivers on all the need to know to navigate autism.
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium has partnered with KultureCity® to provide Sensory Bags equipped with noise-canceling headphones (provided by Puro Sound Labs), fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and KCVIP lanyards for those who may feel overwhelmed by the aquarium environment. Prior visiting, you can download the free KultureCity® App where one can view what sensory features are available and where they can access them as well as a customized visual preview of what to expect while enjoying a visit to CMA.
We Rock the Spectrum is a family play space specially designed for children with disabilities such as autism. The gym is filled with unique equipment, such as swings, tunnels, and crash pads that offer safe, nourishing environment for exploration and play.They offer open play hours during the week and on weekends, as well as parties and classes, including social skills groups. To stay up-to-date with open play hours and events, follow them on facebook. They have locations throughout the country, including locations in Clearwater and Brandon.
Some SkyZone trampoline park locations offer sensory hours for those with special needs. This is categorized as a “quieter, toned-down jumping experience for those with special needs” for all children to feel safe and be included. It’s encouraged that you check with your local location to see if and when sensory hours are offered.
Therapies & Life Skills
There are numerous resources available to support individuals with autism and their families in accessing therapies:
