AN eight-week drama club designed to teach young people with Asperger's and high functioning autism new social skills will kick off this week.
The drama club, funded by NIB foundation and facilitated by Firstchance Inc, provides teenagers with the opportunity to work together in a structured and fun format, Firstchance general manager, Darleen Taylor said.
Ms Taylor said the activities would help participants gain a better understanding of social cues and expectations, allowing them to better interact with peers.
"Young people with Asperger's and high functioning autism often struggle with basic social skills such as making eye contact, controlling their voice, listening and working with others in a social setting," Ms Taylor said.
"This program aims to advance these basic social skills, which will in turn provide participants with increased feelings of connection to their peers, parents and the others in the community, making them feel more engaged and reducing the sense of loneliness."
The Lake Macquarie Drama Club is for young people aged 13 to 16 years.
Limited places are available.
Phone 4921 8723 or email kim.talbot@newcastle.edu.au to apply.