Friend 2 Friend Social Learning Society
Please support Friend 2 Friend’s Programs -- Click to donate now and help F2F
The Friend 2 Friend Bookstore

F2F - IPG Program »»

Integrated Play Groups: www.autisminstitute.com
About Integrated Play Groups Model

Kate and Griffin play together during an IPG.Children on the autism spectrum experience unique and complex challenges in peer relations and play. Integrated Play Groups Model™ (IPG) addresses these challenges by pairing small groups of children on the autism spectrum (and with related social-communication needs) with typical peers and siblings who regularly play together under the guidance of a qualified adult facilitator. The IPG model was created by Pamela Wolfberg, Ph.D. (San Francisco State University and Autism Institute on Peer Relations and Play).

Based on award-winning research, the IPG model has been found to be effective in enhancing reciprocal social interaction, communication, play and imagination in children with autism, pervasive developmental disorder, Aspergers and related social-communicative needs.

Friend 2 Friend Social Learning Society is the only organization in Canada endorsed to deliver the Integrated Play Groups Model™ by Dr. Pamela Wolfberg.

→ Please note that the F2F - IPG Programs are provided throughout the Metro Vancouver Area only.
Friend 2 Friend Integrated Play Groups Program (F2F-IPG)

Friend 2 Friend - Integrated Play Groups Program is a 14-week individualized social, communication and play intervention program for children ages 3 through 16. F2F Master Play Guides will design, set up and run Integrated Play Groups for one child (novice player) on the autism spectrum (or related disorders) and 2-3 peers (expert players). The F2F - IPG programs are delivered within the child’s natural social setting such as school, preschool or daycare. F2F will also prepare and supervise one school-based professional (play guide trainee), so that they may continue to run the sessions once F2F has completed the program.

“It is a profound privilege to partner with Heather McCracken and her fabulous team in delivering state of the-art programs that bring children together in the true spirit of play and friendship.”
Pamela Wolfberg, Ph.D.
Services Provided / Timeline
Phase 1:

Preparing for Play Group
  • Team meeting with school, parents, F2F - IPG team;
  • 2 naturalistic observations of novice and expert players;
  • Friend 2 Friend Autism Demystification (Puppet or Simulation) Presentations;
  • Staff training (optional)
Phase 2:

Starting Play Group
(Sessions 1 - 4)
  • Play Group orientation;
  • Assessment;
  • Design IPG Structure;
  • Design play materials and supports;
  • Write / distribute session notes;
  • Written interim reports with IPG goals and strategies
Phase 3:

Intervention
(Sessions 5 - 8)
  • IPG strategies implementation;
  • Ongoing play materials design;
  • Guided participation;
  • Modeling and training;
  • Write / distribute session notes
Phase 4:

Transition to Play Guide Trainee
(Sessions 9 - 12)
  • Comprehensive, slow transition to play guide trainee;
  • Write / distribute session notes;
  • IPG completion with celebration session
Phase 5:

Post-Play Group
  • Prepare and distribute IPG portfolio/report;
  • Play group follow-up visit;
  • Follow-up team meeting

» Request an IPG Program →

Friend 2 Friend - Integrated Play Groups Consultation Program

Friend 2 Friend offers consultation to professionals and parents who have taken training in the IPG model from Dr. Pamela Wolfberg and require support to set up and run Integrated Play Groups or social groups for children aged 3 through 18. This consultation is offered on a limited case-by-case bases by Heather McCracken, Integrated Play Groups Supervisor. If you are interested in a IPG consultation please contact Heather.

Fostering Play and Friendships for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum
Friend 2 Friend Social Learning Society