Helping Your Child Build Friendships with NDIS Support
Making Social Connections Should Be Fun
Every child deserves to feel included, valued, and connected.
Making friends and getting involved in the community can take extra support, but with the right approach, your child can build strong friendships and feel a real sense of belonging.
The NDIS funds programs that encourage social skills, confidence, and independence. Here are some tips on how to make social connections fun and stress-free for children
Tip 1: Find Activities Your Child Enjoys
The best way to help children connect is to get them involved in activities they love.
Look for programs that focus on inclusion, where staff understand different disability needs.
Whether it’s a sports club, art class, or social group, the key is finding a space where your child feels comfortable, welcome, and excited to join in.
Tip 2: Use Play to Build Social Skills
Play is a great way for children to make friends. Structured and unstructured play helps them learn important skills like sharing, taking turns, and communicating.
Support workers can help children navigate social settings and make interactions feel more natural and fun.
Programs like sensory playgroups, interactive storytelling, and group games create opportunities for children to practise social skills in a safe and supportive space.
Tip 3: Make Communication Easier
Some children need extra support to communicate in social settings. The NDIS funds assistive technology like communication devices and apps that help children express themselves.
Using visual supports, social stories, and adaptive communication tools can make social interactions easier. Support workers and therapists can also help families find the best tools for each child’s needs.
Tip 4: Get Involved in the Community
Being part of the community helps children feel more confident and independent. Many programs encourage children to take part in local events, volunteer work, or school-based activities.
Community programs like gardening groups, music lessons, and library activities are great ways for children to meet new people and build friendships.
The key is to introduce new experiences gradually so children feel comfortable and supported.
Tip 5: Set Up a Social Routine
Building friendships takes time. Setting up a routine with regular social activities helps children feel more comfortable and confident.
Weekly playdates, group activities, or attending the same programs help reinforce social skills and make socialising easier.
Having a structured routine also helps children know what to expect, reducing anxiety and making participation more enjoyable.
Things to Keep in Mind When Building a Social Community
Friendships Take Time
Social skills develop at different paces, and friendships don’t always happen overnight. Giving children time and space to build connections at their own speed makes socialising more natural and fun.
Finding the Right Program Matters
Not every program is a good fit for every child. Visiting programs, meeting staff, and making sure the environment feels right for your child can make a big difference in their experience.
Some Children Need Extra Support
Some children do better with additional support in group settings. Having a support worker or therapist involved can make social experiences smoother and more enjoyable.
Advice for Parents
Helping your child build a social community is about balancing structured support with natural interactions.
Follow Their Interests
Children engage best in activities they enjoy. Whether it’s art, music, sports, or nature, choosing social programs that match their interests makes participation more fun and meaningful.
Celebrate the Small Wins
Every social interaction is a step forward. Whether it’s making eye contact, joining a game, or saying hello to a new friend, celebrating these moments builds confidence and motivation.
Need Help Finding the Right Social Programs? Let’s Chat!
Chat with Giuliana today to explore programs, find trusted providers, and make sure your child has the right support to build friendships and confidence.