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Mingling Meerkats

A group to develop social interaction skills and relationships

The Program

Developing relationships and sharing interactions

This occupational therapist–led program provides a safe and supportive space for children to develop communication skills, build relationships, and connect with peers. Through activities such as group check-ins, arts and crafts, free play, board games, and collaborative projects, children explore similarities and differences and learn to accept and appreciate one another for who they are.

The group fosters a sense of belonging and community, allowing children to learn more about themselves and feel confident to be who they are.

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Program Details

This is a weekly program.

Date: Tuesdays

Time: 4:00 – 5:00 pm

Ages: 5 – 8 years

Open to the public and those under NDIS.

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The Program

Building confidence and community

  • Children can learn about who they are.
  • Develop communication skills and social skills that are in line with their identity.
  • Increase self-esteem and confidence.
  • Provides a safe space where children feel heard and understood.
  • Provides a neuroaffirming environment that recognises differences and similarities between people.
  • Supports children to encourage one another and promotes inclusivity.
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Benefits

Building skills for school and beyond

Integrating social skills that will help children navigate school, community and other social environments.

Social interactions that matter!

Children are provided with a space to interact with others similar to themselves. The aim to foster belonging within a group that is friendly and accepting.

Indentity

Children learn about who they are and have space to tell other children things about themselves. The aim is to increase confidence, advocacy and self-understanding.

For Who

Who is this program for?

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Children

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Join the Mingling Meerkats group today!

We’d love to hear from you! Please complete the form below to express your interest in our program, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Children who need support to build social and communication skills in a supportive group setting.

A qualified occupational therapist guides the group, supporting children to build social and communication skills while nurturing positive peer relationships in a welcoming environment.

The program runs weekly during each school term, with breaks over school holidays and the Christmas period.

To help children communicate, form friendships, understand differences, feel accepted, and develop a strong sense of belonging.

Yes! The group is inclusive and supportive of children with a variety of social, emotional, or developmental needs.

The program takes place in our bright and welcoming gym space at our Rowville clinic. The space features play equipment and a wide range of occupational therapy resources. Activities focus on sensory play and encourage fun, positive, play-based interactions between children in the group.

While parents do not attend the group sessions, we keep you informed with regular updates on your child’s progress after each session. At the end of each term, you’ll also receive a detailed report to support and celebrate your child’s learning at home.

Children take part in fun activities like group check-ins, arts and crafts, games, free play, and collaborative projects. All designed to encourage teamwork, communication, and confidence.

If your child is an NDIS participant and has funding available for group therapy programs, the following NDIS line item can be used to claim your invoices:

Assessment, Recommendation, Therapy or Training – Occupational Therapist
Item code: 15_617_0118_1_3

Resources

Mental health advice for the family

Our mental health blogs cover a wide range of topics from wellbeing and emotional health of individuals and families.