Aspect partners with Microsoft Store Sydney to launch free autism-friendly Minecraft workshops

Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) have partnered with flagship Microsoft Store Sydney to present a series of free autism-friendly Minecraft workshops for children aged 8 – 14 years. The workshops offer an accessible experience for children on the autism spectrum to explore, build, create and foster social skills through the magic of Minecraft.

The workshops follow a two-month pilot program at Microsoft Store Sydney.

Marianne, 11, recently attended one of the autism-friendly Microsoft Minecraft workshops, after watching her brother play the game at home. Marianne’s mum, Meliana said, her son had suggested that it helped him to learn about life, so she thought it would be a good idea for Marianne to try.

“We tried to attend a non-autism inclusive Minecraft workshop in the past but the loud noises and large groups of people were too distressing and distracting for Marianne.

“At the autism-friendly workshop, the smaller group, dimmer lights and awareness of some of the issues that the individual kids in the group faced made it easier for Marianne to concentrate and made me feel more relaxed.”

The new workshops allow children on the autism spectrum to immerse themselves in Minecraft, meet and have fun with other builders in the area, and stretch their skills with timed challenges.

About the workshops:

Date/time: Every fortnight, alternating Saturday and Sunday
Location: Flagship Microsoft Store, Pitt St Mall, Sydney
Autism Friendly Minecraft Build Challenge

This free Minecraft workshop is hosted specifically for children on the autism spectrum, aged 8 – 14, to create and build in Minecraft. This workshop is a great way for players to immerse themselves in Minecraft, meet and have fun with other builders in the area, and stretch their skills with timed challenges.

The Microsoft Store will offer a reduced sensory experience inside the Community Theatre for the duration of the workshop, including dimmed lighting and lowered music. These are small group sessions as part of Microsoft Store’s ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusivity in support of our community. Parents and siblings are welcome to participate.