Alpha U is a comprehensive social skills class that focuses on relationship-building, problem-solving, and executive functioning skills. Lesson Plans include group discussion, games, and activities tailored to age-appropriate skill levels. Alpha U is a great opportunity to enjoy fun activities while building confidence and friendships!

Art is a fun and interactive class that uses a diverse range of mediums to spark creativity amongst participants! Participants will work on a variety of activities including drawing, painting, sculptures, textiles, and many more as each week provides a new opportunity to try something new. Lesson plans are loosely structured to allow for creativity and exploration in this fun opportunity!

Location: ABC Gates 645 Spencerport Rd Rochester, NY 14606 AU Bowling is designed for participants of all ages to build on their social and bowling skills in the community. Using bowling as a medium for exercise, social, and readiness skills, participants practice bowling technique, appropriate social interactions, and managing self and materials in the community. Staff will be present to provide guidance; however physical support must be provided by caregivers. Shoe rental and games are included in the membership.

Practice fundamental singing skills while learning how to be a singer within a group during AU Chorus. Participants will grow in their singing and social skills while exploring a variety of chorus repertoire from classical masterpieces to modern tunes. This class will provide the opportunity to make friends and for participants to discover the power of their voice in a musical environment!

AU Fit provides a combination of strength training and cardiovascular conditioning to provide a full body workout experience. This class promotes camaraderie as participants work together to achieve their health and wellness goals with options to tailor workouts to every individual. With energizing music and motivating routines, lead by a skilled instructor, participants will improve strength and endurance while gaining a sense of community with their peers.

Baking Time is a class for youth and young adults to introduce baking concepts and kitchen safety. Participants in this class will gain confidence and increase independence in the kitchen while learning to follow a recipe as they whip up delicious dishes together. While working with peers, social skills and team building skills are also developed!

With a focus on skill development and teamwork, participants will engage in fun drills and group exercises designed to enhance their dribbling, shooting and passing abilities in this exciting class. The class creates a positive and supportive environment where participants not only develop their basketball skills but also build camaraderie and their love for the game!

This class is designed for individuals looking for a very basic exposure to movement and fitness and is a great place to get the support needed to engage in physical activities. Tailored to their age and fitness levels, the class will introduce participants to enjoyable exercises, games and activities that promote physical well-being. Focused on building fundamental movement skills, coordination and a positive attitude toward fitness, the class fosters a playful environment where each participant can develop a healthy relationship with exercise.

Body Awareness is a unique class that provides a safe environment for participants to be exposed to new situations in a comfortable, relaxed setting. Equipment is set up thoughtfully to encourage exploration of environments and provide learning opportunities for sensory regulation techniques. Staff guide participants through activities at their own pace and structure activities based on each participant's goals. Staff encourage participants to take risks to increase their independence with safely navigating a variety of equipment which allows participants to build their self-esteem and increase confidence in their abilities.

Tailored to the unique experiences of young boys, the class focuses on communication, teamwork, and emotional intelligence. Through engaging exercises, the participants will learn to navigate social situations with confidence while fostering friendships and building a foundation for positive relationships. The class provides a supportive environment where each participant is free to express themselves, cultivating essential social skills that extend beyond the classroom.

During this one on one piano lesson the instructor guides the participant through a personalized curriculum based on their skill level, goals, and musical preferences. Participants will learn the basics of the piano keys, musical alphabet, notes, and rhythms in a supportive atmosphere where the pace is adjusted to accommodate the participant's progress. The goal is to instill a love for music while establishing a solid foundation for future learning and growth in piano playing. Each piano lesson is 30 minutes in length and can be completed in-person or virtual.

During Cooking with Friends participants will learn to follow recipes, measure, chop, combine ingredients, and operate a stove to cook simple meals. An emphasis on safety, healthy foods, and hands-on instructions will prepare participants for independence in the kitchen. As they cook amongst peers, participants will also learn team building and social skills while sharing in a delicious meal. Each participant will receive a personal recipe book that will enable them to practice their skills at home.

Drum it Up is a fun and interactive class focused on learning the drums! Individuals will also build on their social, communication, and engagement skills while utilizing music and drums. Throughout the class, the emphasis is on creating a fun and inclusive learning environment where each participant feels encouraged to express themselves through the universal language of rhythm. The goal is to nurture a passion for drumming and provide valuable musical skills for all involved!

This class will take you on an adventure through immersive storytelling experiences where participants will assume the roles of fictional characters within a shared narrative universe. These games typically unfold around a table, with participants using their imagination, dice, and rulebooks to navigate a series of adventures crafted by the game master. Whether you are ready to dive into the world of D & D or just starting out, this class will combine a unique blend of creativity, social interaction, and storytelling, making it a fun experience for participants of all levels.

Exploring Sensations is a unique class that provides a safe environment for participants to be exposed to new situations in a comfortable, relaxed setting. Equipment is set up thoughtfully to encourage exploration of environments and provide learning opportunities for sensory regulation techniques. Staff guide participants through activities at their own pace and structure activities based on each participant's goals. Staff encourage participants to take risks to increase their independence with safely navigating a variety of equipment which allows participants to build their self-esteem and increase confidence in their abilities.

In collaboration with St John Fisher University, and made possible by a grant from OPWDD Family Support Services, Friday Social Night is an opportunity for teens and young adults to participate in a variety of activities that promote social interactions in a safe and inclusive environment.

Tailored to the unique experiences of young girls, the class focuses on communication, teamwork, and emotional intelligence. Through engaging exercises, the participants will learn to navigate social situations with confidence while fostering friendships and building a foundation for positive relationships. The class provides a supportive environment where each participant is free to express themselves, cultivating essential social skills that extend beyond the classroom.

Embark on a vibrant dance adventure, embrace the rich tapestry of world music, and the joy of movement! In our Global Rhythms Zumba class, you'll experience the infectious energy of Zumba fused with an eclectic mix of global beats, from Latin rhythms to African drums, Asian melodies, and beyond. Our playlists are carefully curated to transport you to different corners of the world, creating a dynamic and culturally immersive dance experience. Learn various dance steps from a variety of cultures and incorporate sensory elements such as scarves, ribbons, and musical instruments into your dancing. These props add a multisensory dimension to the dance routines, allowing participants to engage with the music and movement in diverse ways. Connect with your peers and build upon your social and expressive skills in a fun and positive dance environment!

Learn the basics of guitar strings, strumming, fretting, playing chords, reading notes/tab, and rhythms during this individual music lesson! Throughout the guitar lesson, the atmosphere is supportive, fostering a positive and encouraging environment for the participant to develop their musical skills. This class is for individuals interested in learning beginner and intermediate guitar. Each guitar lesson is 30 minutes in length and can be completed in-person or virtual.

This camp teaches individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and other disabilities, how to ride a conventional bike without training wheels.

This interactive virtual class combines yoga poses, breathing and relaxation techniques, and strategies to leave participants feeling calm, confident, and more aware of their bodies and minds. Participants will want to be wearing comfortable clothes, and have space to perform yoga poses and lay on the floor.

Motion Dynamics is a fun, positive and energetic class where participants will stretch, move and have fun! Participants will engage in a variety of dance, yoga, and fitness moves while they gain confidence and improve body awareness. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothes, and will be provided a yoga mat to use during class as well as plenty of space to move and groove!

Motion Dynamics is a fun, positive and energetic class where participants will stretch, move and have fun! Participants will engage in a variety of dance, yoga, and fitness moves while they gain confidence and improve body awareness. !Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothes and have plenty of space to move and groove!

Join this exciting and interactive class that provides a holistic and enjoyable experience and promotes physical well-being, musical appreciation, and creative self-expression! Participants will utilize instruments to explore different sounds and genres. Guided improvisation will allow for individual interpretation, and participants are encouraged to move freely and explore different gestures and styles. Music and Movement also fosters the opportunity to connect and communicate with your peers to form relationships and improve social skills.

Join this exciting and interactive class that provides a holistic and enjoyable experience and promotes physical well-being, musical appreciation, and creative self-expression! Participants will utilize instruments to explore different sounds and genres. Guided improvisation will allow for individual interpretation, and participants are encouraged to move freely and explore different gestures and styles. Music and Movement also fosters the opportunity to connect and communicate with your peers to form relationships and improve social skills.

In this Musical Theater class participants will learn to express themselves and grow in confidence by learning skills associated with musical theater including singing, acting, and movement/choreography! Experience how to rehearse, direct, choreograph, and perform scenes and musical numbers from the Broadway/musical theater genre. Participants will have the opportunity to build on their teamwork and leadership skills by working with others in a group setting. This class features a performance on the last day!

Participants will discover their natural musicality during this exploratory individual music lesson! The instructor will introduce the participant to a variety of instruments and musical experiences; from playing instruments, to dancing, listening to music, singing, and songwriting with a goal of increasing fundamental music skills through musical play. Each lesson is 30 minutes in length and can be completed in-person or virtual.

Share your stories, questions, and feelings about being a parent of a child with ASD. These meet-ups are for parents to connect with other parents going through the same challenges and joys that autism brings. Parents share success stories and give advice to those who are struggling. We hope you are able to join us at these meet-ups to develop an invaluable network of support. If you have questions, please contact Kelly Conlon at navigator@autismup.org.

EFFECTIVE [ih-fek-tiv] adjective 1. adequate to accomplish a purpose; producing the intended or expected result.

Building on Priorities Associated with Parenting a Autistic Child

Participants will work one on one with a certified personal trainer to complete a custom designed program specific to their individual training needs and fitness goals. Each session is 30 minutes long.

Remote Minecraft will allow participants to access AU's Minecraft world from the comfort of their own home and instantly connect with friends all over the community. The class engages in building challenges that encourage creativity and critical thinking. Participants are given tasks to construct structures, solve puzzles, or design landscapes within the Minecraft environment. Skills and strategies for turn-taking, working collaboratively, and social problem solving will be targeted through team projects, missions, and goals. The virtual classroom serves as a dynamic space for collaborative learning and imaginative endeavors. To provide additional social opportunities, participants will be offered to utilize Zoom throughout Remote Minecraft classes. Zoom allows participants to talk with each other verbally instead of messaging in the actual game!

​SibShop is a class for special needs siblings ages 7-12 to engage in thought provoking conversations, play games with peers, and other fun activities. SibShops are based on the award winning program developed by Don Meyer. During these classes siblings get to meet other siblings and have fun while talking about the good and not-so-good parts of having a sibling with special needs. These classes will help siblings learn more about themselves and the relationship with their sibling. These classes can help other siblings learn how to handle situations by their peers. We talk about the good times, the challenging times, the embarrassing times and the prideful times. We have an educational component that teaches more about the implications of disabilities as well as learn to see things from their sibling’s perspective.

With a focus on individualized attention, this class maintains a small group size of 3-4 participants to ensure everyone receives personalized instruction and support tailored to their unique needs. Through engaging exercises, the participants will learn to navigate social situations with confidence while fostering friendships and building a foundation for positive relationships. The class provides a supportive environment where each participant is free to express themselves, cultivating essential social skills that extend beyond the classroom. *Participants will be placed in like-minded, age appropriate groups to ensure that the class can be tailored to the specific needs and interests of all participants.

This class will provide a fun and dynamic way for participants to explore different sports, improve their fitness levels, and discover new interests in a supportive and encouraging environment. Participants will be introduced to the rules and fundamentals of a variety of different sports including but not limited to basketball, soccer, and pickleball. This class is designed to be inclusive and accessible to individuals of all fitness levels and abilities, with modifications available as needed.

Welcome to "Survival Saturday" Remote Minecraft! Participants will have access AU's Minecraft world from the comfort of their own home and instantly connect with friends all over the community. Our Minecraft Survival Saturdays will take place in a new world separate from the other virtual world where participants will be ONLY in survival mode. They can work together to build and secure food or venture out and try to survive alone. Mobs can and will spawn in caves and during the night so craft a hut and a bed and try to survive till morning! There is the availability for player vs. player between participants with consent from both parties, but it is not required.

Teen Kinect is a social skills class designed for teens to learn and gain social skills through group lessons, games, and activities. This class promotes a positive environment where teens feel encouraged to express themselves, learn from one another, and build the social competencies needed for successful interactions in various aspects of their lives. Teen Kinect is a great opportunity to enjoy fun activities while building confidence and friendships.

This fun and interactive virtual class will include lesson driven discussions and activities tailored to age-appropriate skill levels. The focus is to learn relationship-building, problem-solving, and executive functioning skills in a fun and safe atmosphere.

Minecraft is a class designed for participants to use interests in Minecraft to improve computer skills and to engage in socialization and peer relationship development skills. Participants will engage in building challenges that encourage creativity and critical thinking including building structures, solving puzzles, and designing landscapes within the Minecraft environment. Skills and strategies for turn-taking, working collaboratively, and social problem solving will be targeted through team projects, missions, and goals.

Toddler time is a group being offered for children ages 1-5 and their caregiver. Navigating developmental delays can be difficult, and we are here to support both you and your child’s needs. Our classes will combine parent education with sensory exploration, music, motor skills, regulation strategies, and foster play and bonding. Caregivers will have the opportunity to learn about services and connect with other families.

Participants will learn the basics of ukulele strings, strumming, fretting, playing chords, reading notes/tab, and rhythms during this one on one music lesson! Throughout the lesson, the instructor will create a supportive and engaging environment, tailoring the curriculum to the student's pace and preferences. This class is for individuals interested in learning beginner and intermediate ukulele. Each ukulele lesson is 30 minutes in length and can be completed in-person or virtual.

Participants will discover their innate musicality and creativity while learning how to express themselves through singing during these individual music lessons! The instructor will focus on learning the fundamentals of vocal technique and increasing vocal skills and repertoire while adapting each session to the participants needs. Each voice lesson is 30 minutes in length and can be completed in-person or virtual.

Youth Art & Music is an exploratory class in which participants will be exposed to new creative ways to express themselves through art and music. Participants will be introduced to music through movement, dance, singing, and utilizing instruments. Various art mediums including drawing, painting, and other creative content will make up the other portion of the class and foster an overall atmosphere of creativity.

Youth Kinect is a co-ed social skills class allowing opportunities to develop social skills needed to participate in small group games and activities. The class is designed to be engaging, relevant, and tailored to the unique needs and developmental stage of the youth involved. The class provides a structured yet engaging environment for youth to navigate social interactions and build meaningful connections with their peers.

Minecraft is a class designed for participants to use interests in Minecraft to improve computer skills and to engage in socialization and peer relationship development skills. Participants will engage in building challenges that encourage creativity and critical thinking including building structures, solving puzzles, and designing landscapes within the Minecraft environment. Skills and strategies for turn-taking, working collaboratively, and social problem solving will be targeted through team projects, missions, and goals.

This fun and interactive virtual class will include lesson driven discussions and activities tailored to age-appropriate skill levels. The focus is to learn relationship-building, problem-solving, and executive functioning skills in a fun and safe atmosphere.