“It’s More Than Just After-School Activities”: Why Diverse Pathways Groups Are a Game-Changer for Autistic Kids
- Michelle Silberman
- Jun 13
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 16
If you're a parent of a neurodivergent young person, you know how hard it can be to find after-school and holiday activities that they actually engage in. Programs that truly “get” your child—where they can feel safe, supported, and most importantly, themselves.
That’s why we created something different: a custom-designed rural hub in Mardi, just five minutes from Wyong on the NSW Central Coast. It’s not just a service—it’s a space where autistic young people can thrive.
💬 "I was so relieved to find something local that felt like the right fit. My son is excited to go—he even reminds me when it’s group day!” – Sam, Local parent.
Why These Programs Matter
For many families, the end of the school day or term brings extra stress:
"How will I keep my child meaningfully engaged?"
"Where can they go that understands autism?"
"How do I balance work, family, and therapy appointments?"
Our after-school and holiday programs for autistic and neurodivergent kids provide reliable, enriching, and inclusive spaces where autistic and neurodivergent young people can:
✅ Build social confidence in a supportive group
✅ Try new activities without pressure or judgment
✅ Be surrounded by staff who are neuro-affirming and trained in autism best practice
✅ Form real friendships with peers who just get it
What’s Different About Our Mardi Hub
Set on a peaceful rural property, our custom-designed hub offers a calm, natural setting far from the chaos of busy streets and overstimulating environments.
Whether it’s cooking in the sensory-friendly kitchen, feeding the chickens, doing art in the outdoor classroom, or relaxing in quiet nature spaces, every activity is designed to be predictable, purposeful, and engaging.
Our after-school programs offer the perfect mix of downtime and structured fun, helping ease the transition from school to home.
Our holiday programs give young people the chance to explore, create, and connect—while offering families the confidence that their child is in safe, experienced hands.
Who It’s For
Our programs are ideal for:
Autistic and neurodivergent young people aged 4 – 18+
Those who benefit from small-group settings and individualised support
Participants with NDIS plans (Core Supports or Capacity Building)
Not sure if it’s the right fit? We offer taster and trial days.
🌿 What Parents Love Most
Calm, rural setting designed with sensory needs in mind
Staff who are autism-informed and relationship-focused
Activities that nurture independence, joy, and real-world skills
Honest communication and consistent routines
Peace of mind knowing their child is supported by people who genuinely care
📍 Conveniently Located in Mardi – 5 Minutes from Wyong
Our rural hub is tucked away in Mardi, just minutes from Wyong and central to many Central Coast communities. We’re easily accessible from local schools and perfect for families seeking nature-based programs that still offer structure and professional support.
Whether you're looking for regular after-school enrichment or engaging school holiday options, our Mardi-based programs are designed to support your young person’s growth—and your family’s peace of mind.
✅ Ready to Join Us?
We offer:
Tasters and trial sessions for your autistic young person to try it out
NDIS-friendly pricing and invoicing
Flexible bookings for after-school and holiday blocks
👉 Spaces are limited—especially for school holidays—so contact us today to learn more or reserve your place.
📞 Call us on 1800 348 333📧 Email Groups@diversepathways.com.au
Comments