Programs for Teens

We offer a wide variety of programs for autistic individuals of all ages and abilities. We recognize that everyone’s experience is unique, and we intentionally and creatively structure our programs to embrace the diverse needs and strengths of all individuals/participants. If you have questions or concerns about if a program is right for you or your loved one, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our Program Team at [email protected].

Beyond Boundaries for School Aged Children

Ages: K-12 (School Aged)
Frequency of program: Schedule varies depending on program
Co-Host: Beyond Boundaries

We are proud to partner with a local non-profit, Beyond Boundaries, to offer a variety of indoor and outdoor adventure programs for autistic individuals! Beyond Boundaries specializes in guiding participants with disabilities, veterans, at-risk youth, and recovery programs on outdoor adventures including fishing, hiking, and indoor rock climbing!

New and experienced participants alike are welcome to come out – this is an adaptive experience for all skill levels. All equipment will be provided – just bring yourself, a pair of closed-toe shoes, and a bottle of water!

There is a nominal fee associated with this program. To apply for a program scholarship, please click here.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

See Sensory Information for this Program

Various activities will require different levels of hands-on need. For example, Hiking would not require touching items; however, rock climbing would require touching the wall to climb, and Fishing would include touching bait and water.

Activities are mostly outside and can include sounds from the river, birds, dogs barking, etc.

Many stimulating sights outdoors may be present from trees to water to colorful rock walls. Sunlight may be a factor during many of the activities.

Some outdoor smells may be present, including river water.

Taste stimulation not likely.

Bowling

Ages: For all ages. Players are grouped with peers by age: elementary, teens, and adults.
Location: Glen Allen
Frequency of Program: Monthly
Co-hosted with Bowl America

Bowling is a monthly ASCV Member program for autistic individuals of all ages. This is a great opportunity for participants to socialize in a fun and supportive setting. Players are grouped with peers by age: elementary, teens, and adults. Volunteers and staff are on-site to assist participants as they bowl within their age groups.

There is a nominal fee associated with this program. To apply for a program scholarship, please click here.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

See Sensory Information for this Program

Bowling balls are shared in a lane unless you bring your own. Bowling Alley socks and shoes are required to be worn.

Volume may be loud depending on the business of the Bowling Alley. Many people can be talking at the same time and music plays in the background.

Equipment is brightly colored with artificial lighting and flashing lights. Surrounded by other people in close proximity.

Food being prepared in the dining area and other patrons eating.

Taste stimulation not likely.

Improv with Bridge 9 for Teens

Ages: 13-21 (currently enrolled in middle or high school)
Frequency of program: Quarterly
Co-Host: Bridge 9 Theater

We are proud to partner with Bridge 9 Theater to offer improv comedy programs! Participants in the improv workshops engage in a variety of exercises and games to learn about the art of improv comedy. Improv is built on the foundation of YES, accepting offers and ensemble work. This is a chance to stretch the brain and practice flexibility and social communication skills in a relaxed and fun setting.

There is a nominal fee associated with this program. To apply for a program scholarship, please click here.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

See Sensory Information for this Program

Touch stimulation not likely.

There are some instances where several people can be talking at the same time. There may be sudden bursts of laughter or loud noises from other participants or caregivers.

Programs are held in a dimly lit theater. Overhead lighting is usually off or low, with a spotlight on the stage. Surrounded by other people in close proximity.

Class will be held indoors.

Taste stimulation not likely.

Art Class with Art on Wheels

Ages: Teens and Adults (ages 14+)
Location: River Road Methodist Church
Frequency of Program: 3-Week Series in the Spring and Fall
Co-hosted with Art on Wheels

Join the ASCV and Art on Wheels for a 3-week exploratory art series! Guided by Art on Wheels highly-trained teaching artists, participants will get hands-on and try a variety of different art mediums. The ASCV and Art on Wheels staff collaborate to ensure each class is focused on getting to know participant’s interests and aligning them with focused programming goals. This relaxed and supportive environment is the perfect opportunity to unwind after school or work and flex your creative muscles. No previous art experience is required and all materials are provided!

There is a nominal fee associated with this program. To apply for a program scholarship, please click here.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

See Sensory Information for this Program

There are a variety of manipulatives, instruments, and creative materials to touch. May experience paint, clay, paper mache, etc depending on the class. See registration for more details.

Volume should be calmer but other participants may make noise while creating. Please let staff know if you or your loved one requires noise canceling headphones or other accommodations.

Room will be lit with artificial lighting and you will have exposure to many textures and colors. Could be surrounded by peer movement.

Though we will try to be mindful of materials that do smell, some art materials may have a distinct smell depending on activity.

Taste stimulation not likely and discouraged.

Coding with CodeVA

Ages: 5-12
Frequency of Program: One 3-week series
Co-hosted with CodeVA

The ASCV is excited to partner with CodeVA to offer a 3-session coding series. The activity varies to encourage engagement. During past programs, participants utilized both online and offline activities to explore the process of creating their own electric circuits. Each participant created their own LED accessory/decoration to take home. No experience is necessary and all equipment and materials will be provided!

Each session in this series will build off of each other. Please keep in mind when registering that participants should plan to attend all 3 sessions.

There is a nominal fee associated with this program. To apply for a program scholarship, please click here.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

See Sensory Information for this Program

Sessions differ over time but the learning is very hands on with engagement of circuit toys, computer, ipads, and more.

Volume may be slightly loud due to peers having fun. Please let staff know ahead of time if headphones are needed to be provided.

Different activities have blinking and bring lights. There is a presence of artificial lighting. Movement of surrounding peers is expected.

Class will be indoors.

Taste stimulation not likely unless your child is an oral seeker and can put items in mouth; if so, please send tools for success like a chew tube or gum.

Discovery Club for Homeschool Students

Ages: 5-18
Frequency of Program: Monthly with a 2-month break in the Summer
Co-hosted with a variety of community partners

Come out and enjoy some community-based instruction with families! Past meetups have been at Taylormade Chocolate, an Alpaca Farm, Maymont, a Commissary Kitchen, and more.

There is a nominal fee associated with this program. To apply for a program scholarship, please click here.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

See Sensory Information for this Program

Activities and Locations of our Meetups vary. Please refer to our Registration page for specific events to find out more.

Inclusive LEGO Club

Ages: 5-14
Frequency of Program: Every other Month
Co-hosted with Bricks4Kidz

This inclusive program is a fantastic opportunity for youth in grades K-8 to join Bricks 4 Kidz for a fun, hands-on brick building experience that includes motorized models, 3-D brick builds, mosaics, creative free build exploration, and more!

There is a nominal fee associated with this program. To apply for a program scholarship, please click here.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

See Sensory Information for this Program

There are a variety of Building Materials from Duplos, to small LEGOs, and motorized sets.

Volume may be slightly loud due to peers having fun. Please let staff know ahead of time if headphones are needed to be provided.

Lego sets are brightly colored. There is a presence of artificial lighting. Some lego sets are motorized and will move.

Class will be indoors.

Taste stimulation not likely unless your child is an oral seeker and can put LEGOs in mouth; if so, please send tools for success like a chew tube or gum.

Art Class with Art on Wheels

Ages: School Aged (5-12)
Location: River Road Methodist Church
Frequency of Program: March, May, and August
Co-hosted with Art on Wheels

Join the ASCV and Art on Wheels for exploratory art classes! Guided by Art on Wheels’ highly-trained teaching artists, participants will get hands-on and try a variety of different art mediums. The ASCV and Art on Wheels staff collaborate to ensure each class is focused on getting to know participant’s interests and aligning them with focused programming goals. This relaxed and supportive environment is the perfect opportunity to expose your child to art and allow them to flex their creative muscles. No previous art experience is required and all materials are provided!

There is a nominal fee associated with this program. To apply for a program scholarship, please click here.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

John Maloney Project

Ages: 5-21 (school aged)
Frequency of Program: Once in Spring and Once in
Co-hosted with Collegiate School

The ASCV is honored to partner with Collegiate School to host the “John Maloney Project.” This five-week series is offered twice a year. Youth with autism, ages 5-21, are paired with a student buddy from Collegiate and engage in social and athletic activities together based on the participants’ interests. Activities have included but are not limited to playground exploration, basketball, bubble games, soccer, swinging, walking on the track, and more!

There is a nominal fee associated with this program. To apply for a program scholarship, please click here.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

See Sensory Information for this Program

There are a variety of outdoor activities prepared but children will only access them if interested.

Volume may be slightly loud due to peers having fun in indoor gym space however activities are encouraged to be outside.

A variety of outdoor activities will be present but not limited to playground equipment, bubbles, track walking, balls, parachutes and more. Surrounded by peer movement and swinging actions.

Most activities are outdoors.

An allergen friendly snack is available in the last session.

Monthly Teen Social Group

Ages: 13-21
Location: River Road United Methodist Church
Frequency of program: Monthly
Co-Host: Autastic Avenues, River Road United Methodist Church

Our ASCV Teen Social Groups meet in-person on the third Friday of each month! Come hang out with other teens in a safe and welcoming space! This group provides opportunities for autistic youth in middle and high school to engage with peers through interactive activities, encouraging positive social interactions, fostering new relationships, and promoting belonging and acceptance.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

See Sensory Information for this Program

There are a variety of indoor outdoor activities (weather depending) prepared but children will only access them if interested.

Volume may be slightly loud due to peers having fun in indoor space.

A variety of indoor and outdoor activities will be present but not limited to board games, relay games, social games, etc. Some peers may be standing, moving, or sitting.

Some activities are outdoors and may smell.

An allergen-friendly snack is available.

Teen Community Outings

Ages: 13-21 (currently enrolled in middle or high school)
Frequency of program: Quarterly
Co-Host: Varies with program

Enjoy regular fun activities in the community while getting to meet other families. Some past meetups have been at the Disc Golf, Bowling, Slingshot Social Club, TreeTime Adventures, and more.

There may be a nominal fee associated with these programs. To apply for a program scholarship, please click here.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

See Sensory Information for this Program

Activities and Locations of our Meetups vary. Please refer to our Registration page for specific events to find out more.

Pickleball

Ages: Teens and Young Adults 13+
Frequency of program: Offered in two six week series during the Spring and Fall
Co-Host: Jacob’s Chance, Cool Spring Baptist Church

Pickleball is a fun, social, and friendly sport that combines many elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It is played using a paddle and plastic ball with holes. We will play indoors, but it can be played outdoors as well. Pickleball can be enjoyed by all ages and skill levels – no experience is necessary, and all equipment will be provided!

There is a nominal fee associated with this program. To apply for a program scholarship, please click here.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

See Sensory Information for this Program

There will be use of a ball and paddle. Staff encourage participants to practice basic pickleball drills. Sneakers are required.

Volume may be slightly loud due to peers having fun and the sounds of balls hitting paddles.

Room is lit with artificial lighting, Surrounded by peer movement and swinging actions.

Presence of Indoor Gym.

Taste stimulation not likely.

Respite Night

Ages: All Ages
Location: Glen Allen (Monthly), Colonial Heights (Quarterly)
Co-hosted with Christ Church Episcopal Glen Allen and The Heights Baptist Church

Individuals with autism and their siblings, ages 5 and up (adults included!), are invited to join the ASCV for an engaging and entertaining evening to give caregivers some time to take care of themselves! Attendees will be broken into groups based on age, interest, activity level, etc.

Our skilled and compassionate facilitators will lead creative interactive games and activities. Activities will include but are not limited to: outside time on the playground and basketball courts, a sensory area, arts and crafts, games, LEGO building, and more!

Due to the increasing demand of Respite, waitlists are often present. Staff want to make sure we have enough hands to provide a safe, accommodating, and fun environment for your loved one. We often accommodate families off the waitlist upon illness, cancellation, and increased volunteers. Email [email protected] with any questions you may have.

There is a nominal fee associated with this program. To apply for a program scholarship, please click here.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

See Sensory Information for this Program

There are a variety of indoor activities prepared but children will only access them if interested.

Volume may be slightly loud due to peers having fun in indoor gym space. There are designated quiet sensory spaces.

A variety of activities will be present, including but not limited to a movie room, an art room with a variety of materials, a sensory area, balls, obstacle courses, and more. Surrounded by peer movement and swinging actions.

The playground is outdoors. Food will be reheated during mealtimes for some.

A meal shall be sent in by the caregiver and others may be eating.

Spring Break Camp

Ages: 5-21, participants will participate with peers in either the Elementary or Teen session.
Frequency of program: Once a year during most schools’ Spring Break week.
Co-Host: Beyond Boundaries and True Timber

The ASCV is excited to partner with Beyond Boundaries and TrueTimber Backyard to host our annual spring break camp! Join us for four fun-filled days of outdoor activities and adventures! Campers will connect with nature and explore the outdoors through a variety of games, crafts, and hands-on activities. From guided nature walks and outdoor safety, to zooming on ziplines and playing disc golf, there will be something for everyone!

Appropriate adaptations and support will be provided to meet each camper’s needs and ensure each participant has the opportunity to engage fully in the fun. Spring Break Camp will take place rain or shine! We will have indoor alternatives in case of inclement weather.

There is a nominal fee associated with this program. A separate camp scholarship application will become available when registration opens.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

See Sensory Information for this Program

There are a variety of outdoor activities prepared but children will only access them if interested. Some activities include disc golf, ziplines, swinging, scavenger hunts, and more.

Outdoor space has elements of the natural environment including: birds chirping and dogs barking (they are at a neighboring fence). A train track is nearby but a horn occasionally can be heard.

A variety of activities will be present but not limited disc golf, ziplines, swinging, scavenger hunts, and more. Could be sunny and bright so hats and sunglasses are encouraged!

The camp is outdoors weather permitting.

Snacks from home will be available for each participant.

Summer Camp

Ages: 5-21, participants will select to participate in either the Elementary or Teen session.
Frequency of program: 4 weeks in the Summer
Co-Host: Christ Church Episcopal

Each year the ASCV offers four weeks of summer camp! We are excited to host FOUR weeks of summer camp, offering engaging and interactive opportunities for a variety of ages. Each session will feature a dynamic blend of STEAM, movement, and social skills activities, with a focus on FUN!

There is a nominal fee associated with this program. A separate camp scholarship application will become available when registration opens.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

See Sensory Information for this Program

There are a variety of outdoor and indoor activities prepared but children will only access them if interested.

Volume may be slightly loud due to peers having fun in indoor gym space. There are designated quiet sensory spaces.

A variety of activities will be present but not limited to art activities, motor activities, STEAM activities, and more.

The playground is outdoors. Food will be cooked during mealtimes for some.

A snack shall be sent in by the caregiver. One allergen friendly cooking activity will be prepared with kids weekly.

Teen and Adult Classes with River City Inclusive Gym (RCIG)

Ages: 13+
Location: Henrico
Frequency of program: Bi-Monthly
Co-hosted with River City Inclusive Gym

These inclusive gym classes engage each athlete physically and mentally, helping to facilitate coordination, strength, endurance, communication, and social skills. Adaptations are made on the spot in order to meet the individual needs of each athlete.

With the help of RCIG’s skilled coaches, athletes will rotate through four different obstacle courses during the class. As they go through the course, every obstacle or piece of equipment is adapted to meet individual needs/provide additional challenges as necessary.

There is a nominal fee associated with this program. To apply for a program scholarship, please click here.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

See Sensory Information for this Program

There is a variety of sensory equipment for swinging, jumping, pushing, climbing, and more. Staff encourage participants to touch equipment if uninterested in engaging with specific activities. Please let staff know if your child does not like to be touched as physical assistance may be required to engage with certain equipment or for safety reasons.

Volume may be slightly loud due to peers having fun. Please let staff know if you or your loved one requires noise canceling headphones.

Equipment is brightly colored with artificial lighting, Surrounded by peer movement and swinging actions.

Presence of Gym mats.

Taste stimulation not likely.

Father/Son Retreat at Camp Hanover

Ages: 12-25
Location: Camp Hanover
Frequency of Program: Annually in the Spring
Co-Hosted with Beyond Boundaries and Camp Hanover

Join the ASCV for our Father/Son Campout! Fathers/paternal caregivers and their teen sons are invited to a fun weekend at Camp Hanover. Connect with peers while enjoying a good old fashioned campout – experience fishing, boating, hiking, arts and crafts, a campfire, and more! All meals will be provided and cabins will be air conditioned with bathrooms.

There is a nominal fee associated with this program. To apply for a program scholarship, please click here.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

See Sensory Information for this Program

Activities are mostly outside and can include sounds from the river, birds, dogs barking, etc.

Many stimulating sights outdoors may be present from trees to water to colorful rock walls. Sunlight may be a factor during many of the activities.

Some outdoor smells may be present, including river water.

A cookout will be provided but you are welcome to bring your preferred foods.

Fall Family Campout at Camp Hanover

Ages: 8 to 18
Location: Camp Hanover
Frequency of program: Annually in the Fall
Co-Hosted with Beyond Boundaries and Camp Hanover

Fun for the whole family at Camp Hanover! Join the ASCV for boating, hiking, fishing, arts and crafts, and more to celebrate Virginia’s beautiful fall season. Cabins will be air conditioned with bathrooms, and all meals will be provided, including plenty of marshmallows to roast over the campfire!

There is a nominal fee associated with this program. To apply for a program scholarship, please click here.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

See Sensory Information for this Program

Activities are mostly outside and can include sounds from the river, birds, dogs barking, etc.

Many stimulating sights outdoors may be present from trees to water to colorful rock walls. Sunlight may be a factor during many of the activities.

Some outdoor smells may be present, including river water.

A cookout will be provided but you are welcome to bring your preferred foods.

ASCV FitAbility Club

Ages: 16+
Location: Apex Jiu Jitsu (Midlothian)
Frequency of program: Weekly on Sundays, January – February
Co-Host: Special Olympics Virginia and Apex Jiu Jitsu

Join us weekly for fitness and fun! Designed for autistic teens and adults ages 16+, these weekly inclusive group workouts will engage each athlete physically and mentally. Each class will begin with a stretch, a series of light exercises, and then games designed to get participants moving. With a regular emphasis on relationship, accessibility, and sustainability, our Fitability Club uses minimal equipment.

There is a nominal fee associated with this program. To apply for a program scholarship, please click here.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

See Sensory Information for this Program

Depending on the activity requires different levels of hands-on need. For example, some exercises/stretches will require touching fitness equipment, floor or wall mats. Staff encourage participants to touch equipment if uninterested in engaging with specific activities. Please let staff know if you do not like to be touched as physical assistance may be required to engage with certain equipment or for safety reasons.

Volume may be slightly loud due to peers having fun or background music.

Facility uses artificial lighting. Participants will be surrounded by peer movement and exercise actions.

Presence of gym mats.

Taste stimulation not likely.

Father/Son Outings

Ages: 8 to 18
Location: Varies with activity
Frequency of program: Quarterly
Co-Host: Varies with program

Our quarterly Father/Son Outings are a great way to meet other fathers/paternal caregivers and their sons to share time bonding during a fun outing in the community. Activities include fishing, rafting, indoor rock climbing, and more!

There is a nominal fee associated with this program. To apply for a program scholarship, please click here.

To see upcoming program dates, or to register to attend, please click the button below:

See Sensory Information for this Program

Activities and Locations of our Meetups vary. Please refer to our Registration page for specific events to find out more.