Special Interest Groups: A Neuro-Affirming Approach

My name is Grace Blazevich, and I am a third-year occupational therapy doctoral student. This course outlines my 14-week doctoral capstone experience at a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric clinic. The primary focus of this project was the development and implementation of play-based, special interest groups for autistic children ages 6–9.

Rooted in the principles of neuro-affirming care, this course explores how honoring a child’s unique strengths, sensory preferences, and interests can foster engagement, social connection, and emotional regulation. The content includes a detailed needs assessment, a literature review, and practical tools developed to support clinicians and caregivers in applying neurodiversity-affirming practices.

Participants will learn:

• The foundations of neuro-affirming care in pediatric occupational therapy

• How to use children’s special interests to promote participation and regulation

• Strategies for developing inclusive, interest-based group interventions

• The value of shifting from traditional social skills training to meaningful, child-led interaction

This course contains research-supported lectures and downloadable resources such as caregiver handouts, group planning templates, and sample session guides. A short quiz at the end will reinforce key takeaways, and references are provided for those seeking further education.

Thank you for taking the time to explore this course—I hope it empowers you to support autistic children in ways that are affirming, playful, and truly engaging.