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Neurodiversity, Parenting, Community

How this community is ending isolation for Neurodivergent youth

This mother is paving the way for neurodiversity inclusion

MMS Staff

14 Jan 2025

4-min read

In a world where loneliness and isolation are all too common for neurodivergent individuals, Special Hangout stands as a much-needed beacon of hope, offering connection and belonging to neurodivergent individuals and their families.


Founded by Ritu Vig, a dedicated mother of two sons — one neurotypical and one neurodivergent — this grassroots organization is creating waves by addressing a critical need: spaces where children with disabilities and their families can simply be themselves without fear of judgment or exclusion.


A Personal Journey to Inclusion


Ritu's journey into creating Special Hangout is deeply personal.


Raising two sons, Kritin (22), who is neurodivergent, and Pranit (17), Ritu faced the challenges of balancing the needs of her children in a world that isn’t always accommodating.


As they were growing up, I always felt that Pranit had a lot of friends and a lot of venues to go to with his friends and play with and spend time with them. Whereas, Kritin always longed to have those friendships. He had some friends in school, but if you'd ask me, after coming home there was nowhere he could go. Even if he did go downstairs with his brother Pranit and his friends, he was called names, he was bullied.

“There was a point where Kritin would watch the children play from our balcony, and ask me, ‘Can I go down now? I promise I won’t trouble them!’” Ritu recalls, her voice tinged with the emotion of a mother who only wanted to provide her son with the same social experiences that every child deserves.


But it wasn't just Kritin who was affected.


Pranit, too, struggled with the emotional toll of witnessing his brother's exclusion. It was in these heart-wrenching moments that Ritu realized: This isn't just about my son — this is a universal issue for neurodivergent children everywhere.


And so, Special Hangout was born — initially as small playdates, and now blossomed into an inclusive community with over 375 families involved.


The Power of Togetherness


The organization started small, but it didn't take long for the need for safe, inclusive spaces to become apparent. Events began to take shape, crafted with an understanding that every neurodivergent individual is different, and every family’s needs are unique.


From Dandiya nights to movie screenings, every event is thoughtfully planned to accommodate sensory sensitivities, ensure comfort, and, most importantly, create a space where these young people and their families feel seen, heard, and valued.


“We have to think about everything — sound levels, lighting, food preferences,” Ritu explains.


For example, during our Diwali party, there were no crackers, because we know that many children are sensitive to them. At a movie screening, we made sure that if any child wanted to walk around, or touch the screen, or bring their own food, it was completely fine. There was even a trampoline for them to use when they needed a break.

This attention to detail has made Special Hangout events feel like more than just social gatherings — they’re opportunities for neurodivergent children to have experiences that are both fun and comfortable, fostering connection and belonging without pressure.


Breaking Myths, One Art at a Time


A key part of the Special Hangout’s mission is debunking misconceptions about neurodivergence. Ritu highlights one of the most damaging myths: that neurodivergent individuals are “incapable” of accomplishing things.


“It’s heartbreaking to hear people say that if a child can’t talk, they can’t write stories or paint beautiful pictures,” Ritu says.


“We’ve seen these children achieve things that put us all to shame. They are just wired differently, they are different, not less.”


One powerful example of this came during a painting exhibition at Kala Ghoda, where neurodivergent artists showcased their stunning works.


“We sold artworks for around Rs 5 lakh to 6 lakh,” Ritu beams. “And what was incredible was the number of people who, without knowing us, walked in and bought several pieces. Even judges from the High Court bought paintings. It’s a testament to the fact that art transcends boundaries and appreciation goes beyond expectations.”


Overcoming Challenges: Building Trust and Acceptance


Despite the growing success, Ritu admits that gaining the trust of parents has been a major challenge.


“It’s difficult to convince parents that these events are just as important as therapy,” she says. Many parents still prioritize structured therapy over social experiences, but Ritu emphasizes that Special Hangout’s unstructured, relaxed approach allows both the children and their parents to relax.


“We don’t want to put any pressure on the children to perform. If they want to play cricket during a painting session, they can. We’re not concerned with structure, we’re focused on creating real connections,” Ritu explains.


And it’s working. Parents are slowly but surely seeing the benefits of giving their children the freedom to just be without any constraints.


A Vision for a More Inclusive Future


As Special Hangout continues to grow, Ritu’s vision is clear: to create more safe spaces for neurodivergent individuals and their families across India.


The organization’s “Hangout Buddies” program, which connects neurodivergent people with neurotypical buddies from all over India, is one step toward achieving that goal. From coffee dates to cultural celebrations, these buddy pairs are breaking down the walls of isolation and creating friendships that transcend difference.


But Ritu doesn’t stop there. “I want Special Hangout in every city, street, and corner of Mumbai — and then beyond,” she says with unwavering determination. “There’s a huge demand from parents in the suburbs, and it’s time we expand. The need for these spaces is urgent, and I believe Special Hangout can be the solution.”


Ritu Vig’s tireless work is changing the landscape of inclusion for neurodivergent individuals and their families.


But as she says, “We need society’s acceptance. The ableism must go. We have to realise that the society belongs equally to them as much as it does to the neurotypicals/abled individuals.”

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