CASS AKONGA MAINSTREAM Mainstream reading buddies Social engagement -lunchtime- playground buddies- Opportunities to interact with mainstream ?konga special needs Age-appropriate social interactions “watch and learn from” Communication opportunities Positive role models Exposure other language in different environments show their strengths interests Learning how be around others Tuakana teina mentor coach buddy playmate Show share learning Awareness of differences acceptance Becoming more comfortable Building empathy knowledge about ways communicate (AAC) positive relationships neurodiverse High school students- career exploration for Friendship circle programmes facilities- hall pool library gym playground covered areas Experience typical environment Visiting classes- seeing what are doing- dance or art classes - motivating Best both worlds Become familiar devices equipment use out events- Samoan week- NZSL week during a day School Events Assemblies parents can join too Sports days Book Disco’s Matariki garden table. picnics Pasifika events Extension friendships into the community Opening world view -learning value neurodivergence For siblings at CASS introduce then friends/peers