For Ages 7 - 13 years

Growing Minds

This program serves as a bridge, supporting children as they strengthen social connection, independence, and community participation, while families receive handson guidance toward successful school placement and long-term success. Our goal is simple: help children grow into confident, capable individuals who can navigate real-life environments with support that respects who they are.

Building skills. Growing confidence. 

The Growing Minds Program at Blue Autism Center is designed for children ages 7–13 who are ready to build skills that extend beyond early intervention and into everyday life.



A man and a child looking at a cookbook in a kitchen, smiling. Fruit on the table.
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Who This Program Is For?

The Growing Minds Program is intentionally flexible and individualized. Placement is based on both age and readiness, allowing us to meet children where they are. This program may be a great fit for children who:


  • Are typically between 7–13 years old (with flexibility based on individual needs)
  • Can participate in small-group learning with support
  • Are developing or progressing toward independent self-care
  • Are working toward friendships, independence, or community participation
  • Can safely participate in brief community outings with staff support


What We Focus On 

Social Skills & Peer Connection Children participate in small, supportive groups focused on:


  • Friendship building and conversation skills
  • Conflict resolution and emotional awareness
  • Role play, games, and real-life social practice



Specialized groups may include interest-based groups (gaming, art, cooking) or identitybased groups when appropriate. 

Life Skills & Independence 

We help children build practical skills that support everyday living, including:


  • Daily routines and personal organization
  • Personal hygiene and self-care
  • Household responsibilities such as laundry, cleaning, and meal preparation
  • Using schedules, alarms, and visual supports to build independence


Skills are taught with dignity, purpose, and respect for each child’s pace.


School & IEP Support 

We actively support families navigating school placement and educational transitions. This includes:


  • Guidance with IEP goals, meetings, and school communication
  • Support for trial attendance plans (such as partial school days combined with clinic support)
  • Collaboration with school teams to align goals and expectations



Our goal is to help families feel informed, empowered, and supported not alone in the process. 

Looking Ahead

For older children, the Growing Minds Program may also include early exposure to:



  • Pre-vocational and volunteer opportunities
  • Community responsibility and teamwork
  • Exploring interests that can lead to future independence
  • Every child’s path looks different and we honor that


Woman and two children looking at something, teal shapes background.

Family Partnership & Support

Families are central to the success of the Growing Minds Program.


Support may include:


  • Regular parent check-ins and guidance
  • Family education workshops and training opportunities
  • Practical strategies to support skill generalization at home
  • Opportunities to participate in community activities or learning experiences


At Blue Autism Center, progress doesn’t stop at the clinic door.