We work one-on-one with young children and their parents to help develop early conversation, self-regulation and social play. Families may work with a speech-language pathologist and/or an occupational therapist depending on the goals, and our staff partner with parents to build individualized programs for each client and family.
This program empowers families to learn how to coach their children in natural social situations so that they can build friendships with other kids in their social circles. We help parents focus on one friendship goal at a time and learn specific strategies to help their child to move toward that goal. Children registered in this group do not see each other, but rather parents of kids with similar social goals come together to learn as a group. Children are also seen by the SLP for one-on-one coaching sessions with their parents.
Friendship experiences in grades 7-12 have a different feel than in elementary school. We help clients set goals and learn strategies to make and keep friends in whatever way is most meaningful for them at this time in their lives. This may include individual, small, or large group sessions. A parent or other trusted adult is always included in at least some of our sessions so that there is someone to help the teen take what they’re learning and apply it in everyday situations.
Occupational Therapy can help with friendship! Engaging with others requires our brains and bodies to feel ready and able to interact when opportunities arise and the way we process sensation and self-regulate can impact these interactions. Our occupational therapy sessions help clients and their parents understand their own sensory systems as they learn strategies to help them navigate friendships based on their specific profiles.
Our recreational programs offer opportunities to connect with others with similar interests and experiences. These programs are delivered by fun and dynamic neurodivergent young adults with interest and experience in working with kids and teens. Our SLPs and OT can provide support for families involved in our Rec programs upon request.
Our Buddies program provides in-person mentoring in a casual and fun way from young adults who have walked the same path as the child or teen. Parents first meet with our director to create a Buddy Plan, which includes information about the child’s favourite activities, current strengths, and goals. Our buddies will meet the child and a parent at home or in the community to spend time doing an activity that the child enjoys.
Our services for young adults focus on helping clients to continue developing confidence and skills to navigate personal, school or workplace relationships after high school. Clients may work with a speech-language pathologist and/or occupational therapist depending on their goals.
