Family Initiative launches weekly programs, activities to reach families with children on the autism

CAPE CORAL, Fla. - April 5, 2023 - PRLog -- Family Initiative has launched additional programs and playgroups for children and families diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

For children with sisters or brothers with ASD, Family Initiative now offers a Sibling Group on Mondays from 4:30-6 p.m. at the Autism Support Center, 734 SW 4th St., in Cape Coral.  The weekly drop-in program is open to anyone who has a sibling with an Autism diagnosis.

On Tuesdays from 4:30-6 p.m., Family Initiative offers FI Creates, a engaging class offered weekly to allow participants the opportunity to explore their creative side. The cost is $40 and the class is held weekly and rotates between Family Initiative's Autism Support Center, 734 SW 4th St., Cape Coral or Christ Community Church, 4050 Colonial Blvd.

On Wednesdays from 4:30-6:30 p.m., the Teen Group offers teenagers ages 14-19 years old a place where everyone can be themselves, where they can talk and hangout with peers without worrying about knowing the "right way" to engage. The group meets at Family Initiative's Autism Support Center, 734 SW 4th St., Cape Coral.

A new Young Adult Group is being offered for adults ages 20-30 to provide a space for them to come together and share their experiences while having fun. The Young Adult Group will talk about life, work, relationships, and anything else important to the crew. The group meets at Family Initiative's Autism Support Center, 734 SW 4th St., Cape Coral.

For infants, Family Initiative's new Baby & Me class is held on the second and fourth Saturday of the month from 10-11 a.m. This program is focused on preparing children for daycare or preschool, for those looking for an opportunity for their little ones to learn to play with others while learning the best way to support their child's growth. Baby & Me is held at Family Initiative's Autism Support Center, 734 SW 4th St., Cape Coral.

Free Autism Screenings are offered on Saturdays by appointment. In the first three years of life, babies are growing and changing so much from day to day. Developmental milestones set a course for this growth, and when your child does not meet these, it can cause stress and anxiety. Free Autism Screenings are offered each month to identify and intervene early to help link you with any support you may need. These screenings are designed for children 1-3 years old.

In addition, Family Initiative's ASD Social Skills Playgroup continues Saturdays at Christ Community Church from 1-4 p.m. The playgroup provides an environment for children to connect with their peers to develop socialization skills and a social network through activities. To register or for more information, call 239-910-0712 or email info@fi-florida.org.