What we’re about
WHO ARE WE
Neuro-affirming families Gold Coast is a community group for families with Neurodivergent children who are taking a neuro-affirming approach to raising their kids. We are a space for families to connect, for kids to make new friends, for parents to share advice and experiences and to uplift and support one another. We welcome families with kids of all ages and with any mix of both Neurotypical and Neurodivergent family members.
YOUR ORGANISER
I’m Louise your organiser. I’m a proud Autistic adult with over 10 years experience working with children of all ages in a variety of settings, from kids clubs, babysitting and kids and family entertainment. I provide neuro-affirming support and mentorship for Neurodivergent kids and their families (and of course I have a current blue card).
I value neurodiversity and feel it is very important for Neurodivergent adults to lead by example.
Children need to see Neurodivergent adults like them unmasking, stimming, wearing headphones, etc. to show that it is okay to be true to them self, and that they are loved and accepted just as they are.
Having a Neurodivergent community where we are all able to have fun, support one another, share experiences, and learn from each other is hugely beneficial to our well-being.
Please note, while I am there to facilitate I am not able to provide one to one care/support to kids in a group setting and parents/carers still need to be present at all times.
OUR EVENTS
We hold a fortnightly picnic get-together on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of every month
10 am to 12 noon (though feel free to come late/leave early/take breaks as needed)
At Norman Rix park in Labrador. The park has toilets, a disabled toilet, playground, shade, lots of space for those who need a quiter area, drinking fountain and a liberty swing. While I will attempt to get table/chairs please bring camping chairs/beach chairs etc if sitting on the ground is not possible for you as there is only a few shaded tables available at the park
Some snacks and drinks will be provided, members are also welcome to bring their own food or bring a plate of food to share.
Note: Please get in contact before attending if member’s of your party have severe allergies so we are able to accommodate.
There will be some entertainment and activity options provided at each event (e.g. face painting, balloon twisting, Lego, card and board games, family trivia, scavenger hunts), these will vary from event to event to suit different age ranges.
1st Saturday of the month: limited to 5 families for those who need smaller groups
3rd Saturday of the month: limited to 10 families
Events are $20 per family (50% discount for first time)
Note: a non-refundable $5 deposit is required at time of booking to ensure enough food and activities are provided.
Unfortunately, since the October changes, this is unable to be billed under NDIS
We will occasionally hold special events i.e. theme park days, to attend events, based on members’ interests, for specific age groups, etc.
Events will move to weekly if there is enough demand.
WE ARE:
-Welcome of all kids from high masking to non-verbal
- Rainbow family (LGBTQ+) friendly
- Welcome of multiple disabilities/ disability friendly
- Welcome of support workers, interpreters
The fine print: If you RSVP for an event and can no longer make it, please update with at least 2 hours notice. Those who no-show 3 times without updating will be removed from the group (if you have extenuating circumstances or medical things that makes life unpredictable for you that's no problem, please just let me know as soon as you can, I don't need the details - just a heads up or a message after the event when you’re able).
There is a zero tolerance policy in this group towards racism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, and any other kind of discrimination or hate, we are all learning but anyone displaying these behaviours or attitudes repeatedly or making others feel unsafe will be removed from the group