AOG Launches In-Person Parallel Play Zones (PPZs) in Baltimore
A new kind of community space — built for comfort, connection, and being yourself
Autism On the Go (AOG) is launching something new in Baltimore — and it’s designed to be simple, welcoming, and low-pressure. Sign up HERE
Introducing AOG In-Person Parallel Play Zones (PPZs).
These are casual, peer-led hangouts where Autistic and neurodivergent adults can come together without the expectations that often come with traditional social events.
You don’t need to perform.
You don’t need to mask.
You don’t need to socialize the whole time.
You can simply show up, settle in, and be.
What are PPZs?
Parallel Play Zones (PPZs) are shared spaces where people gather to spend time together — while doing their own thing. Check out more info HERE
At PPZs, you might:
- Bring a book, game, or craft
- Work quietly on your laptop
- Sit and decompress
- Chat casually with someone nearby
- Meet new people naturally
Or you might just exist in a shared space with others who understand.
Think of PPZs as community living rooms — places where connection happens at your own pace.
For many Autistic people, traditional social spaces can feel overwhelming or exhausting. PPZs offer a different approach — one where quiet, flexible, and low-pressure interaction is not just allowed, but expected.
PPZs in Baltimore
The first AOG In-Person PPZs are launching in Baltimore at the Enoch Pratt Free Library Central Branch.
These will be regular, casual hangouts where participants can:
- Bring their own activities
- Sit quietly or chat
- Play board games (we’ll have some available)
- Come and go as needed
Schedules and locations may occasionally change, so interested participants should register for the group HERE for updates and the most current information.
We’re excited to see these spaces grow and evolve as the community helps shape what they become.
Expanding PPZs to Other Communities
Baltimore is just the beginning.
AOG hopes to grow Parallel Play Zones (PPZs) in multiple locations, making it easier for people to find low-pressure community spaces closer to home.
You might be a good fit to help bring PPZs to your area if you:
- Want to build local community
- Know a welcoming space that could host
- Want something casual and easy to maintain
- Simply wish something like this existed near you
You don’t need to have everything figured out. If the idea speaks to you, we’d love to talk.
PPZs are designed to be simple, flexible, and replicable — so they can grow organically wherever people want them.
A New Kind of Community
At their heart, PPZs are about creating spaces where people can belong without pressure.
No agenda.
No expectations.
Just shared space, at your own pace.
If you’re interested in bringing one to your own community, please reach out to us directly here: info@autismonthego.org
We’re excited to see where this goes.
