Next Step Teen is a program at The Hope Center for Autism designed for middle and high school students with autism who want to build friendships, confidence, and real-world social skills in a supportive environment.

What do students do?

Next Step Teen uses eSports and interactive activities as a powerful way to help students connect and grow. Students:

• Build friendships with peers

• Practice social and communication skills

• Learn how to work as part of a team

• Participate in structured eSports gameplay and group activities

• Develop confidence in social situations

Why eSports?

eSports provides a natural and motivating environment for many students with autism. It allows them to:

• Connect through a shared interest

• Practice turn-taking, communication, and teamwork

• Learn how to win and lose appropriately

• Build problem-solving and strategic thinking skills

Because students are engaged and interested, social interactions happen more naturally and with less pressure.

When does it meet?

Next Step Teen meets weekly (currently Tuesdays from 4:30–6:00).

Who is it for?

This program is a great fit for students who:

• Are in middle or high school

• Enjoy video games or technology-based activities

• Want to improve social skills and peer interaction

• Benefit from structured support in social settings

What makes it different?

Next Step Teen is not just about playing games—it is a guided social experience. Staff actively support students during activities, helping them:

• Start and maintain conversations

• Navigate teamwork and competition

• Manage emotions during gameplay

• Build meaningful peer connections

Why it matters

Many students with autism struggle to find spaces where they feel comfortable socially. Next Step Teen creates a safe, structured, and engaging environment where students:

• Feel accepted

• Build real friendships

• Gain confidence in social interactions

The goal

The goal of Next Step Teen is to help students take the next step toward:

• Stronger relationships

• Greater independence

• Confidence in social and community settings