Let's build friendships and grow together.

Fostering social connections, in a nurturing environment for neurodivergent children & teens.

At Marching Forward, we provide a nurturing and inclusive environment where neurodivergent children can build meaningful social connections. Our program is designed to foster confidence, communication skills, and emotional growth, all while encouraging children to form lasting friendships with peers who truly understand them. Through personalised support and a focus on individual strengths, we create a space where every child feels safe, valued, and empowered to thrive socially.

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Our Programs

Friday Night Socials

12th September

Kick back, connect, and have a blast with friends at our Friday night hangouts! Ages 13-17.

From games and music to laughter and snacks, it’s the perfect way to end the week and make memories with your crew.

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Saturday Socials

13th September

All aboard for an exciting day in Brisbane’s South Bank! We’ll hop on the train , explore the incredible exhibitions at GOMA (Gallery of Modern Art) , and enjoy a relaxing lunch by the river. It’s the perfect mix of culture, adventure, and city fun. Get ready for a day out in Brisbane!

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Sunday Socials

14th September

Immerse yourself in nature with a scenic rainforest hike atMt Glorious ! We'll explore lush trails, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the wilderness with lunch. After our adventure, we’ll unwind with a

relaxing picnic, surrounded by stunning views.

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Empowering neurodivergent kids & teens through social connection and growth

Fosters Social Skills

Encourages positive interactions and communication among neurodivergent children.

Builds Confidence:

Provides a supportive environment where children can express themselves freely.

Creates Lasting Friendships:

Helps children form meaningful connections with peers who understand their experiences.

Inclusive and Safe Space:

Ensures a welcoming atmosphere tailored to the needs of neurodivergent children.

Encourages Emotional Growth:

Supports emotional development through guided social engagement.

Tailored Support:

Facilitated by experienced staff who understand the unique needs of each child.

Some of Our Adventures

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Our Support Staff

Lou

Founder , Owner & Support Worker

As an AuDHD individual and a parent to three AuDHD children, Lou brings personal experience and a deep understanding of neurodivergent children, creating a space that celebrates and empowers our young community whilst reaching their goals.

Alicia

Co-Owner & Support Worker

Now the co-owner of Marching Forward, Alicia's firsthand experience living in a neurodivergent household with ADHD allows her to connect with and support the unique needs of the children and teens.

Meet Our Founder

"At Marching Forward, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is for neurodivergent children to feel understood, supported, and celebrated for who they are. This program is more than just a place to socialise – it’s a community where every child is valued and encouraged to grow in their own way."

Lou

Founder & Owner - Marching Forward

Words from Parents

If you are looking for someone who is kind, nurturing and understanding of your child's needs you have come to the right place. My daughter is 14 and finds it incredibly difficult to socialise and commit to days out so we had nearly given up until we found Lou. After just one week of being in Lou's company, my daughter now can't wait to go back for more, believe me this is a miracle. There are so many other groups that I would not trust with my daughter but I instantly knew we had joined the right group with Marching Forward. If you are not sure, give it a try, I promise Lou will put you at ease and you won't look back. Keep up the good work Lou, we are so happy we found you :)

Kelly Atkins - Parent of Marching Forward Participant

Frequently Asked Question

At what ratios are your groups held?

Our in-house, community groups and STA/respites work on ratios up to 1:4. We understand that each participants needs are unique to them so if lower ratios or even 1:1 are needed we can accommodate those needs we just ask for enough notice so we can appropriately staff.

Do you offer transportation?

Our community programs and STA/Respites are inclusive of transport. Our in-house programs we offer an option for transportation if you are not able to travel to our Art Escape hub in Dayboro, this is invoiced at a cost according to the NDIS price guide and is divided between the number of participants using the transport service. We recommend you seek assistance from your LAC, Plan Manager and/or Support Coordinator when agreeing to invoice items. If you are using the transportation service, then we will meet at a designated pick up and drop off location that is disclosed once the participant has signed up and all forms received by Marching Forward.

Would your services include any additional items?

Our community programs and STA/Respites are inclusive of transportation, lunch and all activity costs. Our in-house programs are inclusive of the costs of activities, snacks and water are provided. We recommend you provide your child with lunches during the in-house programs.

What happens if I don't show to a session booked or I am late to collect my child from our session?

No shows will be billed at the session rate. We understand life can take a turn and if you contact us as soon as possible if you think your child won't be able to attend a session, we will endeavor to fill the space, so it doesn't come at a cost to you.

Effective immediately, late fees will apply if a participant is late to be collected. We understand life can take a turn so there will be no fee for the first 15 minutes, half of the session rate will be applied 16 - 30mins after session ends and a full session will be deducted 30 minutes after a session ends. We ask that you contact staff as soon as possible to notify of any late pick-ups. We hope you understand that it is important to us that our staffs time is respected as lateness has a knock-on effect and can impact the rest of their day. It can also be unsettling for the children if they are picked up late and their well-being is important to us.