autism
involves parents and carers, who also
attend weekly sessions, and help their
young adult continue practising the
learned behaviour during and after
"One of the biggest things the program taught
Michael was to recognise the need to put in
effort to build and maintain friendships."
the course is completed.
to do this independently. Since said it is often difficult for young
“Before taking part in the PEERS the program, we’ve watched his people with autism to transition after
program, Michael was very reliant on independence grow, and he has got high school, and there is a lack of
my husband and I to initiate social his first job in a café, where he has social skills programs to help them.
activities for him. He had few friends been for three months.
Michael’s mother, Suzanne, said:
at school and did not have an interest
“This job is great for Michael,
“The PEERS program has been
very successful for these participants,
in seeking out social opportunities. as it requires him to use the as it teaches them the skills to
One of the biggest things the program communication skills he acquired build and maintain relationships,
taught Michael was to recognise the through the PEERS program. He’s also gain independence and grow their
need to put in effort to build and living independently from us on the confidence,” Teigan said.
maintain friendships. He now has the other side of Sydney, which is a huge confidence to initiate social contact step, and he is initiating get-togethers through our program have not only
that he wouldn’t have done before. with friends, such as movie nights.” been able to make friends and join
“Some weeks, Michael had to
Certified PEERS trainer
“The young adults that have gone
social groups, but enrol in university,
travel alone from Menai to Ryde, Teigan Butchers, PEERS Australia get their first job and even move out
where the program was held, and spokesperson and Manager of Youth of home.”
he was incredibly proud of his ability Services at Cerebral Palsy Alliance,
www.peersaustralia.com.au
Creating a lifetime of opportunities
for children with autism
At AEIOU Foundation, children with autism aged 2 to 6 receive
specialist therapy and care to develop independence and life
skills that help them lead their best lives possible.
As a registered provider with the NDIS, we also support
families to access the community, through regular
workshops and individual planning sessions.
Find a centre near you, by visiting
www.aeiou.org.au or calling 1300 273 435
linkonline.com.au
autism
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