Groups are based on the spiraling Unstuck and On Target curricula series designed to support executive function skills using a neurodiversity-affirming approach. Our groups may be run by one or more clinical experts in autism (e.g., clinical psychologists, speech/language pathologists). Trainees may also be involved in groups.
Groups are run yearly or seasonally. Interest in our groups runs very high, and we run a very limited number of groups each year. We maintain an interest list, rather than a traditional waitlist, due to space limitations and to make sure the group and curriculum are an appropriate fit for each child or teen. We are unable to guarantee that a spot in group will be available at any particular time.
Free parent-focused videos for parents about executive functioning are also available in both English and Spanish through the curriculum website. Families may also wish to consider the paid online parent training program. The elementary school group is also sometimes offered by community providers.
Flexibility and Friendship
Age: 4-5 years/PreK-Kindergarten
Targets: Social skills and flexibility in young children with a diagnosis of ASD through a play-based and story-based curriculum
Best for: Children with ASD who can answer direct questions about things that happened to them at another time
Available at: Neuropsychology at Children's National Montgomery County
Children learn:
- How to play games and pretend together
- How to change their play plans when needed
- Coping skills
- Sharing and taking turns
- Early conversation skills
In their own group, parents receive coaching on:
- How to support kids in using their new skills at home
- Strategies for young children with ASD on a variety of topics, such as picky eating, planning play dates and school supports
For more info: Email our team with the subject line "Flexibility and Friendship Group."
Unstuck and On Target: Elementary
Age: 7-11 years
Targets: Executive function such as flexible problem-solving and planning for elementary school children, with a diagnosis of ASD
Best for: Children who are working on grade-level curriculum and are able to engage in group discussions and activities
Available at: Neuropsychology at Children's National Montgomery County or Children’s National Takoma Theatre. Virtual options for participation may be available.
Children learn:
- Flexible planning
- Problem solving
- Coping skills
For more info: Email our team with the subject line "Unstuck and On Target Group."
Unstuck and On Target: Ages 11-14
Age: 11-14 years/Grades 6-8
Targets: Executive function skills such as flexible problem-solving, planning and organization for middle school students with a diagnosis of ASD
Best for: Students with average or above average cognitive abilities, due to the language demands of the curriculum
Available at: Neuropsychology at Children's National Montgomery County or Children’s National Takoma Theatre. Virtual options for participation may be available.
Children learn:
- How flexibility and polite interactions are tied to gaining social power with others, which helps them achieve their goals
- How to work together to create a long-term plan for a group goal
For more info: Email our team with the subject line "Unstuck and On Target: Ages 11-14 Group."
Flexible Futures
Age: High schoolers
Targets: Executive function and self-determination skills such as flexible problem-solving, planning and organization
Best for: Diploma-track high school students on the autism spectrum, who are comfortable with talking in a group, participating in small group activities and are able to engage in discussions related to goals, hopes and plans for after high school graduation
Available at: Neuropsychology at Children's National Montgomery County
Children learn:
- Flexible thinking
- Understanding and advocating for needs
- Time management
- Handling stress
- Building positive relationships
- Planning for goals and putting plans into action
For more info: Email our team with the subject line "Flexible Futures Group."