Last September, Kristen Lee, an incredible teacher and mother of two amazing children, created “Friends on the Go”. Kristen’s vision was to have a group where her son could enhance his social skills, get out in the community, make some new friends and build his connection. Her hope was to have monthly outings to “support kids ages four and older who have social challenges and wish to make friends in a low stress environment”. “Friends on the Go” is much more than enhancing social challenges for kids; it is slowly building a community.
“Friends on the Go” has attended Wildflower Studio, Essex Speedway, two painting classes held at Davis Studio and Shelburne Farms. Each event attracts different families. Some come with siblings, some without. Some come with one parent, some with two. As the months have passed, the number of families attending events continue to grow.
It is amazing to watch the relationships that have strengthened with many of the children. The friendships that they have made with other children is evident by their ability to communicate with one another, follow one another around, help one another and laugh with each other. At our visit to Shelburne Farms I witnessed one child showing everyone how to pick up and hold a chicken, another kid encouraging a friend to keep moving along, and three kids following one another in a funky dance (on top of the picnic table no less). There is nothing better than watching your child fully engaged with other peers and being happy.
Beyond the peer friendships that are being formed, the adults have also formed some wonderful connections. It is so enjoyable to be able to hang with parents that understand some of the everyday struggles that you face as a parent who has a child with special needs. Even though all our children are very different, we all have a general understanding of: constantly supervising your child, being exhausted, understanding “lack of attention span”, being on the go all the time, the dilemma of summer camps….and the list goes on. We all offer one another support, advise, and suggestions. However, the best part is we can relax, be ourselves, not worry if our child stands out from the norm, and just enjoy an outing like every other family.
Thank you, Kristen Lee, for starting “Friends on the Go”. It is having such a positive impact on our children. Not only are social skills improving but nothing can beat the friendships these kids are making with one another and the connections the families have established.
If you are looking for an outing where you can bring your child, not be judged, have fun, meet new families, and enjoy yourself than “Friends on the Go” is the place to be. Next outing is this Sunday at Mt. Philo!