Support groups can make this feel less lonely. They give parents, caregivers, siblings, and autistic adults a place to ask questions, share what works, and spend time with people who understand. Start with the groups closest to home, or choose an online option.
Free for parents and caregivers, with any diagnosis or no diagnosis and any age of child. Cameras are optional, come late or leave early, and the host does not record meetings. First meeting October 1, 2026.
Led by Cari Parr. Meets every Wednesday at 5:00 PM at We Rock the Spectrum Murfreesboro.
A group for late-identified autistic adults and a separate support group for parents and caregivers of autistic and PDA children. No childcare.
Professional counseling rather than a drop-in peer group. The practice names parents of children with special needs and autistic adults among the people it serves. Ask about current fees.
Search Facebook by the group’s exact name and answer its join questions. The group is run independently by local parents; Our Special Village is not affiliated.
Search Facebook by the group’s exact name and answer its join questions. The group is run independently by local parents; Our Special Village is not affiliated.
A new Rutherford County/Murfreesboro community for young adults to connect, belong, and have fun through shared interests. Caregivers and families are helping plan the first meetup now.
Separate peer groups for autistic adults, parents and caregivers, and autistic teens. Current dates are published on Autism Tennessee’s Connect page.
Programs for families of people with Down syndrome at every age. Dates, cost, and whether children attend vary by event.
An achievement center for people with Down syndrome and their families. Check its official calendar for current programs and registration details.
Connects parents of children with disabilities or special health care needs with another parent who has navigated a similar experience.
A free monthly program for siblings, generally on Saturdays from roughly August through April. Confirm current dates and registration directly with Vanderbilt Kennedy Center.
Parent support groups, 1:1 Sunday buddies, a sensory room, and respite events. Confirm the next date, cost, and registration directly.
Parent groups and respite events, with the ministry serving children through adults. Check the official page for current dates and registration.
Newsletter
One helpful email each month: the month ahead, deadline watch, what’s new in the library, and one hopeful story. Free, and no spam.
Calendar
Sensory-friendly events, support-group meetings, respite nights, and upcoming community programs around Middle Tennessee, updated regularly.
Online Support Group
A free, low-pressure hour with parents and caregivers who understand, online every Thursday from 7:00–8:00 PM. Cameras are optional and meetings are not recorded.
Village Hall
A monthly online conversation with a guest expert about one practical topic, followed by live Q&A. Registrants receive the presentation recording.
