Event
October holiday program for autistic kids (5-18 years)
Description
October School Holidays: Telethon Holiday Makers Program with Spectrum Space
The Telethon Holiday Makers Program (THMP), run by Spectrum Space, gives autistic children and teens aged 5 to 18 somewhere to go these October holidays that's actually built around them.
What is the Telethon Holiday Makers Program?
THMP is a school holiday program designed specifically for autistic children and teens, subsidised by Telethon to help keep it accessible for families. Each holiday period combines advertised excursions and incursions with flexible on-the-day activities, so there's structure for kids who need predictability and enough choice for kids who'd rather follow their own interests.
Every day looks a little different. Some days are about trying something new. Others are about diving deeper into a special interest with other kids who get it. Spectrum Space's team has experience supporting autistic young people, and the program is built around a strengths-based approach, focusing on what each child is good at and interested in, rather than what they find difficult.
What's On Offer
Across the program, participants get the chance to:
- Try new hobbies and creative projects
- Take part in active, adventure-filled experiences
- Explore special interests in a safe, social space
- Build friendships and enjoy positive social interactions
Specific October activities, excursions and incursions haven't been published yet. If you register your interest now, you'll be first to know once the day-by-day schedule is released.
Dates and Sessions
The October program runs during the WA school holiday period, Saturday 26 September to Sunday 11 October 2026. Spectrum Space offers a few different session options depending on your child's age:
Ages 5–10
- Morning program, 9am–12pm
- Afternoon program, 12.30pm–3.30pm
- All-day program, 9am–3.30pm
Ages 10–18
- All-day program, 9am–4pm
- All-day specialty program, 9.30am–4pm
Program Fees
The program fee is subsidised by Telethon. Excursion and incursion costs are billed separately and can't be claimed through NDIS funding.
| Program | Per Day | Per Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Ages 5–10, Morning (9am–12pm) | $91.80 | $30.60 |
| Ages 5–10, Afternoon (12.30pm–3.30pm) | $91.80 | $30.60 |
| Ages 5–10, All Day (9am–3.30pm) | $198.90 | $30.60 |
| Ages 10–18, All Day (9am–4pm) | $187.60 | $26.80 |
| Ages 10–18, Specialty All Day (9.30am–4pm) | $174.20 | $26.80 |
Rates listed are current at time of publication and may increase slightly in line with upcoming SchADS Award changes. Spectrum Space will confirm final hourly rates before the October program begins.
NDIS and Funding
Attendance may be covered by your child's NDIS plan, depending on funding and budget, so it's worth checking with your plan manager. Spectrum Space is unable to support NDIA-managed plans. Excursion and incursion fees are paid privately and sit outside NDIS funding.
How to Register
Every family starts with an Expression of Interest. From there:
- Submit an EOI. Early EOIs for October THMP are open now.
- Meet & Greet. New to Spectrum Space? A Meet & Greet helps the team understand your child's preferences. Under 10s meet face-to-face at the Fremantle office; 10 and above can meet online or in person. If your child has attended a Spectrum Space program in the past 12 months, this step usually isn't needed unless something's changed.
- Service Agreement. Once your information is reviewed, Spectrum Space will guide you through a Service Agreement.
- Confirm your sessions. Sign the agreement, choose your sessions, and your child's place is secured.
Places are limited, so it's worth getting your EOI in early rather than waiting until closer to the holidays.
Why Families Choose THMP
Beyond keeping the holidays covered, families tell Spectrum Space this program helps their kids:
- Build friendships with like-minded peers
- Explore special interests through engaging activities
- Develop confidence and social skills in a supportive environment
- Enjoy structured, predictable routines that reduce anxiety
- Improve emotional regulation and physical coordination through guided play
Good to Know
Activities may change due to weather or unforeseen circumstances, though Spectrum Space aims to keep changes to a minimum. A cancellation policy applies. Contact Spectrum Space directly for the full terms.
Ready to Register?
Submit an Expression of Interest for October THMP or read more about the Holiday Program on the Spectrum Space website.
