Connection Club

Neurodiversity-affirming social skills groups for children ages 5–11 in Bend, Oregon. Founded by speech-language pathologist Stephanie Wilhite, MA, SLP, with 25 years of experience. Programs are grounded in the Social Thinking® methodology developed by Michelle Garcia Winner. Opening Fall 2026.

Connection Club is based in Bend, Oregon and serves families across Central Oregon. All groups are led by Stephanie Wilhite, MA, SLP, a licensed speech-language pathologist with 25 years of experience helping children develop social communication skills. Groups are kept small (2–4 kids) and matched by age and social learning level. Sessions are 60 minutes — 50 minutes of direct group work plus 10 minutes of parent education so learning carries beyond the group room. The practice operates from 415 NW Broadway St, Bend, OR 97703. Now accepting inquiries; groups begin Fall 2026.

Core pages

  • Home: Overview of Connection Club's mission, approach, and current group openings.
  • About Stephanie Wilhite: Stephanie's background, credentials, and the philosophy behind Connection Club.
  • Social Skills Groups for Kids 5–11: How groups are structured, what a typical session looks like, age tiers (5–7 and 8–11), and the skills children practice.
  • FAQ: Answers to common questions about group format, eligibility, and how Connection Club differs from individual speech or occupational therapy.
  • Rates & Enrollment: Pricing ($150 per 60-minute session), payment options, and the enrollment process for new families.
  • Contact: How to get in touch to ask questions or begin enrollment.

Methodology

Connection Club uses the Social Thinking® methodology developed by Michelle Garcia Winner. Rather than teaching kids what to do in specific social situations, the approach builds the underlying social cognition — perspective taking, reading the room, understanding hidden rules, and thinking flexibly — so that appropriate social behavior follows naturally from understanding. Groups are organized by age and matched by social learning level rather than diagnosis.