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

    Once your enrollment form is received, our team will be in contact with you regarding next steps, including sharing a calendar of events and our handbook.

     

    Supports for Families at Home

    To help promote the generalization of skills, our team creates resources periodically to help navigate certain activities. We also host fun sensory-friendly activities for members to enjoy with their families! 
    ResourcesEvents