Would you and your child benefit from an opportunity for organized social connectedness? 

Then a virtual playgroup may be the place for you! 

 

Text: Autism PlaygroupA virtual playgroup is a free, 30-minute virtual sensorimotor playgroup for children.

The UVM Autism Collaborative, in conjunction with the Department of Rehabilitation and Movement Sciences, is hosting a weekly playgroup with activities meant to engage children socially and physically, while incorporating problem solving and sensory stimulation.

Dr. Liliane Savard and physical therapy doctoral students will plan and lead the playgroups with careful consideration of the children's needs and abilities. 

Frequently Asked Questions About the Playgroup

How are playgroups organized?

Playgroup organizers will make groups that have similar schedule needs and that may be a good match based on age and interests.

When do playgroups take place?

When playgroup organizers bring groups together, they consider age and interest, and then find a time that works for all parties.

What happens during virtual playgroup?

A link will be sent to you for a video session. When you join, your video and sound should be on. Then any or all of the following activities take place:

  • The Welcome Song
  • Turn-taking activities
  • Visual-motor activities (such as searching for items of a certain color)
  • Simultaneous games (such as follow-the leader and jumping games)
  • The Goodbye Song

Demonstrations, visuals, First/Then, all-done cues, and scripts will be used as needed.

What will caregivers have to do for the virtual playgroup?

Caregivers will receive an email before each session with a list of planned activities and household supplies that they may need to gather.

During the session, caregivers will be asked to help with adjusting the camera, but activities will be tailored to the child. The child should not need physical assistance.

What happens to the information I submit during registration?

The information will remain secured in a UVM, password protected, form that only the playgroup organizers will be able to access.

UVM Autism Collaborative logo

How do I register for the virtual playgroup?

A quick five-minute registration is required. We collect information on the caregiver and child for planning and contact purposes. 

Register for the Virtual Playgroup here