Through MyTime I’ve found a community of parents who understand and support each other’s journeys. We share our challenges, wins, strategies and resources. It’s been so helpful and so supportive.
Understanding Autistic Friendships: Virtual Autism MyTime
Description
Friendships can look different for Autistic children.
Some children connect through shared interests. Quiet time together. Gaming. Online spaces. Or being near someone they trust. These friendships may not look the way adults expect. But they are still real, important and meaningful.
Following our Understanding Autistic Friendships Webinar, this MyTime session is a chance to keep the conversation going. It’s a space to reflect on what stood out, ask questions and talk with other parents and carers who get it.
Share your experiences and talk about things like:
What friendship looks like for your child
Different ways Autistic children connect and socialise
How friendships can change as children get older
Ways to support friendships without adding pressure
You do not need to have attended the webinar to join the conversation
This is an online peer group
Virtual MyTime brings parents and carers together to talk and connect over topics families may be navigating.
Guided by a facilitator who is a peer, with space to hear from families, share your own experiences, or just listen.
This peer group discussion is not recorded, to respect and protect participants’ privacy.
Who this peer group is for
Parents and carers living in Australia raising Autistic and neurodivergent children including those who are exploring or awaiting a diagnosis.
These sessions are just for parents and carers. If you’re a professional, please click here to visit our Professionals page for more information.
MyTime is funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services. It is coordinated nationally by the Parenting Research Centre. Belongside Families proudly delivers MyTime on behalf of the Child and Family Disability Alliance (CaFDA)
Facilitator

Alison Burns
Alison is the parent of Javier, who is autistic and non-speaking. Her own journey through online workshops and peer groups helped her find community, build confidence and discover the value of peer connection. She now brings warmth, curiosity and a love of learning to the spaces she facilitates.
FAQs
- Will this peer group be recorded?
No. As a peer group, participants are invited to share their experiences. To create a safe space and protect everyone’s privacy this event will not be recorded.
- Do I have to share my experiences?
No. You are invited to share as much or as little as you feel comfortable.
You are welcome to just come along and listen. Or to share in a way that feels right for you, either by speaking or by using the chat.
- Do I have to have my camera on?
We ask that you briefly turn your camera on at the beginning of the session. This ensures that there is a real person on the other side of the screen, which helps create a safe space for everyone to share.
- I am a professional, can I attend?
This event is not for professionals. It is designed to be a safe and supportive space for parents and carers. Professionals are welcome to register for our webinars.
If you would like to find out more about partnering with us to support families, please visit the professionals page on our website or get in touch.
- I have accessibility needs.
If you require closed captions, they are available in Zoom. Once you join the session, you can turn captions on by selecting Show Captions in the Zoom toolbar.
If you have other accessibility needs, please provide details when registering, and a member of our team will be in touch.
Testimonials
It’s powerful to hear real life stories and learn about strategies and resources from other families. Sessions like these offer hope, support, validation and belonging.
I felt instantly welcomed and supported by the facilitator and other parents. Loved it so much, felt like a very safe and supportive group.
About Belongside
Belongside Families is a not-for-profit organisation that supports parents and carers of children with disability, developmental delay, autism, genetic and rare conditions. We provide general information, peer support and shared lived experience. We do not provide medical or professional advice or counselling. Information shared during this event is intended to support and empower families and should not replace professional advice or care.
As part of your event registration, you have been added to our mailing list. You can unsubscribe at any time.
By registering, you acknowledge that you have read and agreed to the MyTime Member Consent Statement.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity















