Autism Society Begins Circle of Friends Program
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio -- The Mahoning Valley Office of the Autism Society of Ohio is inviting youth ages 3 to 10 to join the Circle of Friends the second Tuesday of each month, spokeswoman Aundrea Cika announces.
The program provides children with any degree of autism with an environment to build relationship skills essential to maintaining healthy friendships.
Members of the Circle of Friends explore interesting activities in the Valley and share their experiences with their developing peers, Cika said. Parents and other care providers are welcome to stay and participate in the simultaneous support group sessions. The children without developmental disabilities learn skills such as patience, leadership and understanding as well as engaging in practicing friendship skills.
Programs take place from 4 to 6 p.m. Upcoming outings:
- Today: Mill Creek Experimental Farm.
- Oct. 8: Horse farm visit and ride.
- Nov. 12: YSU Smarts rhythm and drum circle.
- Dec. 10: YMCA swim and gym.
- Jan. 14, 2014: Studio oxygen yoga class.
- Feb. 11: Afternoon at the movies.
- March 11: Born to shop at the Southern Park Mall.
- April 8: Volunteering at Angels for Animals.
- May 13: Picnic at Boardman Park Kids Town.
Memberships in the program cost $50 per family per year and are available through Oct. 15. The plan includes reserved spots at all events, admissions, snacks, a logo T-shirt, monthly newsletter, Web-based interaction for older children, facilitated parent discussions at events with guest speakers, and invitations to additional special events. Nonmember participation is available for $20 per person per event if not sold out. Fees cover the cost of materials, entrance fees and staff. For more information, call 330 507 3893.
Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.
CLICK HERE to subscribe to our free daily email headlines and to our twice-monthly print edition.