Dragons of the Spectrum PLUS (DOTS+)

Social Skills Program

DOTS and DOTS+ are social play programs developed by Social Play Academy and delivered at Affirmative Minds Psychology by a certified facilitator.

What is the ‘Dragons of the Spectrum PLUS’?

The Dragons of the Spectrum PLUS (DOTS+) is a neuro-affirming, role-playing social skills program designed for returning participants who have already completed the original DOTS program. DOTS+ builds upon the core principles of connection, confidence, and collaboration from the DOTS program—while introducing more advanced skills, such as leadership, self-reflection, and peer feedback.

In DOTS+, participants take turns becoming the Game Master, where they plan and lead their own story-driven adventures for the group. Through this playful leadership role, they continue to grow their communication, perspective-taking, and emotional regulation skills in a highly supported and fun format.

What Makes DOTS+ Unique?

• Structured and manualised learning program

• Built for returning players ready for more independence and challenge

• Emphasises leadership, reflection, and creative problem-solving

• Players design and run their own game sessions with support

• Encourages peer feedback, flexible thinking, and social adaptability

• Offers an affirming environment that supports neurodivergent strengths and fosters deeper social connection

What is Involved?

• Duration: 10 weekly sessions (120 minutes each)

• When: Saturday Mornings during School Terms and School holiday programs - Daily

• Group Size: 3-4 participants per group

• Eligibility: Ideal for children aged 10+ who have completed the DOTS program. Suitable for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (Level 1-2), ADHD, or related profiles.

• Program Pack: Participation in DOTS+ requires a ‘Program Pack’ (includes all the necessary resources to participate in the program: dice, tokens, skill cards, Game Master’s Guide activity book.

What Skills Does DOTS+ Promote?

Explicit Focus

• Self-awareness & communication

• Teamwork & leadership

• Perspective-taking & theory of mind

• Reflection & emotional regulation

Embedded Social Skills

• Listening & adaptability

• Conflict resolution & turn-taking

• Negotiation & group decision-making

• Critical thinking & social problem-solving

Program Fees

Fees for participating in the Dragons of the Spectrum PLUS program are as follows:

The DOTS+ Program Pack

The ‘DOTS+ Program Pack’ is required for your child to participate in the social skills program. This program pack includes all resources needed to engage in this group: the program workbook, parent handouts, social skill cards, and gaming resources. Components of the program pack will be provided over the course of the ten-week group.

Once-off cost of $194.00.

This cost is not claimable through Medicare or private health.

This cost may be covered by the NDIS.

The DOTS+ Social Skills Program

The ‘DOTS+ Social Skills Program’ involves attending 10 sessions weekly, each lasting 120 minutes.

Weekly session cost of $122.00.

This cost is claimable through Medicare or private health.

This cost may be covered by the NDIS.

Total Program fee: $1,414.00

NDIS: If your child has NDIS goals related to social skills or group therapy, the full program (including the Program Pack) can typically be covered under your child’s plan.

Medicare: Medicare rebates may be available if your child has a current Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) from a GP, or a referral from a Paediatrician specifying a group program.

How to Register

To express your interest or apply for an upcoming DOTS+ group, please watch the following parent information video and share the trailer with your child, then complete the following form:

DOTS+ Presentation - for Parents