Building Social Skills Through Group Activities in Brisbane
Social skills aren’t something most people think twice about. Things like saying hello, joining a group conversation, or even taking turns during a game may seem simple, but for many young people living with disability, these moments can bring real challenges. The great part is that social skills can be built, strengthened, and supported over time, and group activities are a fun and natural way to get the ball rolling.
As Brisbane continues to grow with more inclusive opportunities, it’s becoming easier for young NDIS participants to take part in activities that bring people together. Whether it’s a weekend outing to South Bank, a creative workshop in the West End, or a regular social catch-up, group-based programs offer safe spaces to interact, communicate, and make new mates. These shared experiences often open the door to stronger confidence, self-awareness, and community connection—all while having a good time.
The Importance of Social Participation
When young people are actively involved in social situations, it can do more than just fill their calendar. Participating in social activities helps build confidence, offers chances to practise communication, and gives structure to relationships outside of the home. These skills are useful not just during youth but form a foundation as they become young adults, step into independent routines, or move into work or study down the line.
For some NDIS participants and their families, stepping into social settings like group classes or community events might feel a bit overwhelming at first. The key is starting small and choosing activities where support is available, and where expectations are clear but flexible. A closed group setting, for instance, can provide a softer entry compared to large community festivals, allowing time to learn at a comfortable pace.
When there's regular access to positive social experiences, the benefits often show up in everyday life too. Things like being more at ease talking in a group, asking questions, or working things out with a peer begin to develop gradually. One parent shared how their teenage son, after months of joining weekend outings, went from refusing to speak in front of others to confidently leading a trivia round during a group barbecue. These moments of progress, while sometimes small, can have a huge meaning for both the participant and their support network.
Types of Group Activities That Build Social Skills
There are many ways that group-based activities in Brisbane can gently support the growth of social confidence. Some participants jump into these with loads of energy, while others prefer to stand back and watch for a while. The idea is to make space for everyone, no matter their pace or interests.
Here are a few types of group activities that cater well to diverse needs while focusing on social connection:
1. Community events and outings
These might include parks and picnic days, visits to local markets, or attending art shows and open-air movie nights. These help build comfort in public settings, encourage small interactions, and allow time together in a relaxed, fun setting.
2. Sports and recreation
Joining group games like basketball, ten-pin bowling, or even dance sessions at a community hall can teach teamwork, respect for others’ space, and how to follow shared rules. Many of these activities allow for heaps of non-verbal communication, which is great for those still finding their voice in social spaces.
3. Arts and crafts workshops
Creative group settings like painting, scrapbooking, or clay modelling aren’t just nice downtime. They also offer space for conversation, praise, and cooperation. These can be especially helpful for participants who connect through creativity rather than high-energy interaction.
Brisbane has a growing range of services and accessible venues offering these kinds of activities year-round. The trick is to look for calm, inclusive environments run by people who understand different communication styles. With the right setting, group time can become an opportunity to build friendships, increase independence, and enjoy genuine fun together.
How Horizons Support Network Facilitates Social Skills Development
At Horizons Support Network, we’re proud to support young people in building meaningful community connections through group experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our Horizons Squad Social events, where regular meetups are carefully structured to promote a sense of belonging and social growth in a relaxed and welcoming space.
Whether it’s a games night, a creative workshop, or a community outing, these group activities are designed with the needs and comfort of our participants in mind. Support is always close by, helping ease anxiety and making room for confident social interactions. Our team recognises that everyone comes with their own set of strengths and challenges, so we always aim to offer a mix of activities that are both fun and encouraging.
Personalised support is at the core of everything we do. It’s not just about the activity itself, but about how each young person engages with others, builds friendships, and gains a stronger sense of participation in their community. Group sessions are an opportunity to laugh, learn, and connect—all while growing valuable life skills.
Tips for Parents and Carers to Encourage Social Participation
Parents and carers play a big part in supporting social growth. A few consistent steps at home can make a difference in helping young people feel ready to engage with others more confidently.
Here are a few helpful ideas to try:
1. Use social role play
Run through simple social situations like greeting someone, joining a group, or asking a question. Turn it into a game to keep it low-pressure and enjoyable.
2. Offer choice
Let them help decide between a few group activity options in the area. When they feel involved in the decision, it can ease nerves and boost motivation.
3. Prepare for new outings
Go over what to expect before the activity. Look at photos of the venue together or talk through possible scenarios so things feel more familiar.
4. Debrief after social activities
Chat about how things went, what felt good, and what was a bit tricky. This helps process the experience and opens the door to problem-solving together.
5. Build a trusted network
Link up with other parents or carers. You might plan shared transport, organise activities together, or simply swap ideas and encouragement.
Home environments also offer small chances to practise social behaviours. Group meals, phone calls to family, or helping a neighbour are all great ways to build skills slowly and naturally. Over time, these small moments can create a steady foundation for more confident social participation.
What Happens When Confidence Starts to Grow
When a young person starts feeling more connected and capable in social settings, it affects many parts of life. They might look forward to regular outings, enjoy chatting with someone they met at a workshop, or begin feeling confident enough to try something new.
Social participation helps build identity, strengthens independence, and adds colour to everyday life. It may not always be easy, and progress rarely happens overnight, but these shared experiences have a lasting effect. For families and support coordinators, being part of that growth—seeing the smiles, the eye contact, the quiet pride—is one of the best rewards.
Brisbane offers so many welcoming spaces and inclusive activities to support this journey. With the right kind of support and opportunities that match individual needs, social skills can blossom in real and lasting ways. And when connection feels natural, fun, and empowering, young people thrive.
Exploring options for social participation in NDIS in Brisbane can open the door to meaningful friendships, stronger confidence, and real community connections. At Horizons Support Network, our tailored group activities are designed to help young people feel supported, included, and ready to build lasting life skills through shared experiences.
