Autism & Neurodiversity in Youth Work
A structured, practical and evidence-based training programme to equip youth mentors and volunteers with the knowledge, strategies and confidence to support neurodivergent young people in inclusive, meaningful ways.
A partnership built on shared values of inclusion and participation.
WonderKids Therapy Clinic is pleased to submit this proposal in response to the Call for Quotations for the provision of training on Autism and Neurodiversity in Youth Work. Our response is designed around the practical realities of youth settings — combining lived understanding, evidence-based practice and ready-to-use strategies that mentors and volunteers can take straight into their work.
Multidisciplinary expertise across therapy, community and education.
WonderKids Therapy Clinic is a multidisciplinary service specialising in supporting children and young people with autism and diverse neurodevelopmental profiles. We work collaboratively with families, schools and organisations to promote inclusive practices and meaningful participation.
Sensory Integration Specialists
Occupational Therapists with Master's level training in Sensory Integration, experienced in supporting sensory processing, emotional regulation and participation across home, school and community environments.
Communication & Interaction
Speech and Language Therapists specialising in communication development, social interaction and alternative communication approaches — including AAC introduction and inclusive peer facilitation.
Four outcomes we commit to delivering.
Increase understanding of autism and neurodiversity.
Equip participants with practical, applicable strategies.
Promote inclusive, strengths-based approaches.
Support active participation and engagement of neurodivergent youth.
Six sessions that move from foundations to real-life practice.
Each session blends theory with practical application, building progressively from core concepts to confident implementation in youth contexts.
Foundations of Autism & Neurodiversity
- Understanding autism and the spectrum
- The neurodiversity paradigm
- Strength-based approaches and lived experiences
Sensory Processing & Inclusive Environments
- Understanding sensory processing differences
- Identifying sensory needs and triggers
- Adapting environments and activities
- Practical sensory strategies
Communication & Social Interaction
- Different communication styles
- Supporting verbal and non-verbal communication
- Introduction to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
- Facilitating inclusive peer interaction
Emotional Regulation & Co-Regulation
- Behaviour as communication
- Recognising dysregulation
- Co-regulation strategies
- Creating emotionally safe environments
Participation, Executive Function & Inclusion
- Supporting organisation, planning and transitions
- Encouraging participation through strengths and interests
- Managing inclusive group dynamics
Real-Life Application & Reflective Practice
- Case studies and problem-solving
- Designing inclusive youth activities
- Reflective practice tools
- Mentor wellbeing
Interactive, experiential and practice-oriented.
Participants gain both understanding and practical skills they can apply immediately in their work with young people.
Real-life case studies
Group discussions and collaborative learning
Role-play and scenario-based exercises
Sensory-based experiential activities
Practical tools for immediate application
Reflection and supported peer learning
Tailored to your organisation's context.
Prior to training, a brief consultation process is conducted to tailor the programme, ensuring it is directly relevant and applicable to real-life situations.
- Observation of the youth setting (where feasible)
- Understanding group dynamics and participant needs
- Identifying the roles and challenges of youth mentors
6 sessions × 2 hours — 12 hours total.
Delivery format can be adapted to your organisation's schedule and preferences:
Transparent, inclusive pricing.
This fee includes:
- Delivery of 6 training sessions (12 hours total)
- Pre-training consultation and needs assessment
- Preparation of bespoke training content
- Training materials and resources
Why WonderKids.
Multidisciplinary Expertise
Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy working in tandem for a full picture of the young person.
Sensory Integration Specialism
Master's-level SI expertise applied directly to youth work environments.
Communication Specialism
Deep experience in communication development, AAC and social interaction.
Clinical & Community Reach
Strong experience across both clinical and community settings.
Practical & Evidence-Based
Training that participants can apply on the very next session with youth.
Focused on Real Youth Work
Grounded in the context, pressures and opportunities of mentor-led youth settings.
We are confident this programme will support Right2Smile mentors in creating inclusive, empowering environments for neurodivergent young people.
We welcome the opportunity to collaborate and are available for further discussion or clarification at any time.