PEER PALS Information

The PeerPals.org program is designed to provide our pals with disabilities the opportunity to have typically developing peer models. It also gives our pals without disabilities the chance to meet and play with children who may not be exactly like them and to learn that that's ok and no reason to not be friends. Our program matches children with disabilities with children without disabilities for individual and group play dates. The group play dates are guided play in a fun and safe environment, facilitated by special education professionals who volunteer their time. Our program raises awareness of the need for inclusion for children with disabilities and provides concrete ways to build these inclusive communities. PeerPals.org produces clear benefits for the children it serves. The benefits of increased self-esteem and empathy have the power to change and impact communities for years to come. As a free program we are accessible to all families regardless of socioeconomic status. We are addressing a need in the community that has been largely ignored. Our play dates are a fun and nonthreatening way to begin the conversation with preschoolers about differences in people. Our goal is not to change the child with a disability, it is to change how that disability is perceived.