Social Groups
Designed to cater to neurodivergent profiles, these afterschool and summer activities offer opportunities for social connection, community outings, and exploration of special interests.
Social Skills Programming
Providing a Safe Place for Fun + Learning
At Empowering Kids, we go beyond exploring special interests and building social connections—we’re focused on helping individuals understand their unique profiles and recognize their strengths. Our goal is to equip each person with the tools they need to advocate for themselves and grow through experiences tailored to their needs.
We believe progress happens when families are engaged. That’s why we keep parents informed about group activities and milestones, encouraging meaningful conversations at home and promoting advocacy that extends into everyday life.
Building friendships, skills, and fun through hands-on activities!
Help your child build meaningful friendships through our structured social skills groups.
In our small, clinician-led groups, kids practice essential social skills—like cooperative play, turn-taking, conversation, and empathy—through fun, guided play with peers of similar ages and abilities. All with expert therapist support in a nurturing environment.
Designed to provide a supportive, inclusive space where kids can build friendships, develop skills, and have a blast with hands-on activities!
Program Details
Runs – June through mid-August
Meets – Every other Tuesday from 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Alternatives weekly between middle school & high school groups
Cost – $100 per month, per participant
Summer Social Groups
Previous Activities Include:
Exploring Our Community:
- Visits a dairy farm
- PACC Outings
Outdoor Adventures:
- Creek hopping at Glendalough
- Gardening projects
- Volunteering by cleaning parks (a great way to practice self-control and responsibility)
Fun & Creative Experience:
- Pickleball outings
- Art & baking activities
- Special guests (often providing opportunities to practice making new friends and preparing for social situations)

Heidi Solberg
Social Groups Team Lead

Karen Zepper
Social Groups Team Lead

Levi Baumgart
Support Provider

Lyvia Misegades
Support Provider

Exploring the local fire station.

Enjoying the Mursu Dairy Farm in New York Mills.

Learning with DNR officer.

Brushing up our pickleball skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When do groups meet?
A: Groups start June 2 and run through August 11. They meet every other Tuesday from 1:30–4:30 PM, alternating between middle school and high school students each week.
Q: How will my child get to groups at 1:30 PM?
A: Families are responsible for arranging transportation to and from groups.
Q: How many kids are in each group?
A: We anticipate 10 participants per group (middle school and high school), for a total of 20 students this summer.
Q: Will a snack be provided?
A: Yes! Each session includes a snack and beverage. Each child will also receive a water bottle to keep at Empowering Kids for the summer.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: $100 per month, per participant. This is a flat monthly fee (not pay-as-you-attend).
Q: Are there lessons at each session?
A: Yes! Each session includes social learning focused on topics like mood monitoring, personal responsibility, self-control, respecting differences, communication, and building healthy relationships.
Get Started
Step 1
Contact Us
To learn more about our program or ask specific questions about your child, call or email us.
Phone – (218) 346-2322
Email – info@empoweringkidsperham.org
Step 2
Complete Paperwork – LINK BELOW
Step 3
WE WILL CONTACT YOU

