WHAT IS I CAN ONLINE: INSIGHTS FROM AN I CAN MENTOR
I CAN Online is our way of making sure that no matter where you live in Australia, you can still experience the support, community, and sense of belonging that I CAN offers. We know life can be complicated, and not everyone can attend face-to-face programs, especially if you live thousands of kilometres from our base in Victoria. That’s where I CAN Online steps in, bridging the gap to ensure you’re never too far away from an inclusive community.
Why I CAN ONLINE EXISTS
At I CAN, we recognise that many young people may face challenges attending school in-person. Some live in rural or remote areas, others have finished their schooling and sometimes life circumstances make traditional attendance difficult. I CAN Online provides a flexible solution by meeting you exactly where you are both physically and emotionally. Whether you’re self-identifying as autistic, in the process of getting a formal diagnosis or just need extra support, you’re welcome here.
How I CAN Online Works
I CAN Online is our online mentoring program where autistic and neurodivergent individuals aged 7 to 22 come together on Zoom. It’s modeled on the same supportive and inclusive approach as our in-school programs. What sets I CAN Online apart is the fact that most of our staff are Autistic or Neurodivergent themselves. We use our lived experience to design each session so that it’s accessible, relatable, and makes sense for the neurodivergent mind.
- Session Length: 1 hour
- Platform: Zoom
- Activities: Interactive games, discussions and sharing of personal interests
- Participation: Join via chat, camera, or microphone, whatever feels most comfortable for you
The Magic of Shared Interests
As an autistic person, one of my favorite parts of I CAN Online is seeing everyone’s special interests come alive. Many of our young participants bring art, poetry, animations, or other creative projects they’ve been working on. Personally, I’ve always loved Nintendo, Godzilla, and naval history. My brain lights up like fireworks whenever I talk about these subjects! At I CAN Online, we encourage everyone to share their passions, because we believe special interests are a huge part of who we are.
Building Social Skills & Friendships
Through I CAN Online, mentees improve their social skills and form lasting friendships in a safe, judgment-free space. Being in a group of fellow neurodivergent folks can feel like connecting to a hive mind of creativity. Ideas spark off each other in ways that are hard to describe but incredible to experience. You quickly realise you’re not alone and that there’s a whole community waiting to accept and celebrate you.
A Sensory-Friendly Environment
One of the best things about I CAN Online is the ability to create a comfortable space during sessions. You can adjust your lighting, wear headphones if you need to or bring along your favorite fidgets and snacks. Having the session topics shared in advance allows you time to prepare or even bring pre-written responses if that makes communicating easier. As someone who sometimes struggles with sensory overload in busy physical settings, being able to control my environment is a massive relief.
Why I Wish I’d Had I CAN Online
Growing up, there was no such thing as an online mentoring program like this, and I know I would have thrived in it. That’s why everyone at I CAN is so committed to providing I CAN Online. We want to ensure no one feels isolated simply because of their location or personal circumstances. Whether you need help building confidence, finding friendships or simply belonging, I CAN Online is here to help.
Ready to Join I CAN Online?
If you’re interested in exploring I CAN Online then please reach out! Through our online mentoring sessions, you can connect with others who truly understand and celebrate your neurodivergent strengths. Let’s build a community together, wherever you happen to be in Australia.
