Find Social Activities for Your Child in Wollongong & Illawarra

Build Friendships and Confidence with NDIS Social Activities



Finding the right social activities for your child can open doors to friendships, independence, and new experiences. 


Whether they love sports, art, or simply meeting new people, there are programs in Wollongong and the Illawarra to support them.


Here are 10 practical ways to help your child connect with others and build confidence.

Tip 1: Join a Social Group That Feels Like Family


NDIS-supported social groups offer fun, structured activities where your child can meet people with similar interests. These programs focus on connection, routine, and skill-building.


Where to Start


  • The Disability Trust offers youth groups, day trips, and creative workshops.
  • Greenacres Disability Services runs friendship clubs and community outings.
  • Illawarra Community Services hosts inclusive social meet-ups.


Tip 2: Try Sensory-Friendly Activities for a Relaxed Experience


Some children prefer low-sensory environments where they can enjoy activities at their own pace, free from overwhelming noise and lights.


Great Places for Sensory-Friendly Fun


  • Wollongong Art Gallery has quiet mornings and interactive art workshops.
  • Event Cinemas runs sensory-friendly screenings with soft lighting and lower sound.
  • Wollongong Botanic Garden provides peaceful, shaded walking paths.

Tip 3: Get Moving with Adaptive Sports


Sport is a fantastic way for children to stay active, develop skills, and make friends. There are many adaptive sports programs designed for all abilities.


Where to Play


  • Special Olympics Illawarra provides inclusive sports programs.
  • Disability Sports Australia hosts local sports events.
  • Illawarra PCYC offers boxing and gym sessions for all abilities.


Tip 4: Express Creativity in a Fun Arts Program


Creative activities help children develop confidence, self-expression, and social skills.


Creative Arts Options


  • Studio ARTES runs visual art and drama classes.
  • Music Therapy with Nordoff Robbins provides interactive music sessions.
  • The Drama Studio at IPAC offers acting workshops for young performers.

Tip 5: Build Social Skills in a Supportive Setting


Structured programs help children gain confidence in different social settings by practicing interactions in a safe space.


Where to Find Social Skills Support


  • Aspect South Coast runs Autism-friendly social development groups.
  • The Disability Trust provides small group coaching for social interactions.
  • Speech therapists offer one-on-one coaching.


Tip 6: Enjoy the Outdoors with Community Gardening


Gardening helps children connect with nature, learn responsibility, and work as a team.


Best Gardening Programs


  • Wollongong Community Gardens hosts accessible gardening sessions.
  • The Farm at Killalea offers hands-on farm experiences.
  • Illawarra Edible Garden Trail runs workshops on growing food sustainably.

Tip 7: Make a Difference with Supported Volunteering


Helping others builds confidence, responsibility, and connection. Many charities and community groups welcome young volunteers.


Where Kids Can Volunteer


  • RSPCA Illawarra offers animal care volunteering options.
  • Food Fairness Illawarra provides community meal programs.
  • Op shops and local charities support inclusive volunteering roles.


Tip 8: Attend Disability-Friendly Events


Many community festivals and events are designed to be inclusive and welcoming.


What’s On in Wollongong?


  • All Abilities Disco Nights at local clubs.
  • Illawarra Folk Festival, with sensory-friendly areas.
  • Local council-run inclusive events throughout the year.

Tip 9: Plan Fun Day Trips with Friends


A change of scenery can help children build confidence while exploring new places.


Exciting Day Trip Ideas


  • Symbio Wildlife Park offers accessible wildlife encounters.
  • Nan Tien Temple provides tranquil gardens and cultural activities.
  • Shellharbour Marina is a relaxed spot for social outings.


Tip 10: Use Social Transport Services for Independence


NDIS transport services help children travel safely to social activities.


Getting There


  • Community Wheels Illawarra provides affordable disability transport.
  • Private transport services offer safe, door-to-door rides.
  • Taxi subsidies and ride-sharing provide flexible travel options.

Advice for Parents


Supporting your child in joining social activities can feel overwhelming, but small, positive steps lead to more independence and friendships.


Encouraging Participation


Let your child choose activities that interest them. Encouragement, patience, and routine can help them feel comfortable.


Connecting with Other Parents



Building a support network of families and carers makes finding the right activities easier and more enjoyable.

Need Help Finding the Right Social Activities?



Looking for more ideas? Get in touch with Giuliana now to explore the best options for your child

Get in touch with Giuliana