Bethesda is pleased to offer Foundational Family Services for children/youth and their families who are registered with Children’s Behaviour Services (CBS) at Bethesda and ANY family across the province who is registered with the Ontario Autism Program (OAP).
Bethesda’s Service Coordinators can:
• Provide information about service options and assist with program registration
• Answer questions and share resources
• Assist families completing OAP funding applications
• Help families reconcile their OAP funding expense forms
Families can contact a Service Coordinator by calling 905.684.6918 ext. 170, or sending an email to serviceinfo@bethesdaservices.com to book an individual consultation.
Supports inclusive of the whole family are offered in a variety of different formats including:
• Parent/Caregiver Support Groups
• Groups
• Social Recreational Groups
• Youth Advisory
Browse this publication for information on available interactive workshops that cover topics related to the early years through to young adulthood.
Brief consultations are single or time limited (1-3) individualized sessions that are focused on specific needs or goals. Parents/caregivers can meet with a clinician to ask questions, review resources and discuss a variety of strategies that relate to their child’s social skills, life skills, communication and behaviour. Examples of topics that can be discussed during a clinic appointment include, but are not limited to: behavioural concerns, teaching new skills, increasing independence, completing OAP registration and funding applications and learning about community resources. Brief Consultations focus on proactive strategies. Call 905.684.6918 ext. 170 to request an appointment.
Transition supports are offered to support children, youth and their families during different life stages and changes, e.g. starting school, new diagnosis.
Meet one on one with a Service Coordinator to help parents and caregivers navigate Autism services in the Niagara Region and the province. The Ontario Autism Program (OAP) and one-time funding, and evidence-based services, including Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), will be reviewed.
DATE/TIME Available by individual appointment upon request.
Phone 905.684.6918 ext.170
LOCATION Virtual, phone, or in-person appointments available.
A psycho-educational workshop designed for parents and caregivers of teenagers who are struggling with depression and/or depressive symptoms. This workshop will explore depression from a mental health perspective, highlighting the differences between depression and other emotions such as sadness or grief, as well as the criteria that indicate a potential clinical diagnosis of a depressive disorder or episode. Some basic coping strategies for depression will be shared, and some general tips will be provided for caregivers who are supporting a teen with depression.
DATE/TIME Monday September 11 6:00pm - 7:00pm
LOCATION Virtual
This workshop is focused on understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) with compassion and sensitivity; giving an overview of ASD from a medical perspective and a caregiver’s perspective.
DATE/TIME Wednesday September 13 6:30pm - 8:00pm
LOCATION Virtual
This workshop is designed to support parents who have received a new diagnosis for their child. Using the principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), parents will be provided with a model that will assist them in understanding and managing the emotional waves that often overwhelm caregivers when dealing with a new diagnosis with their child.
DATE/TIME Wednesday September 27 6:30pm - 8:00pm
LOCATION Virtual
This workshop provides specific tools and strategies to help caregivers support their children in responding to bullying, including what to do if you are a target, how to handle embarrassing feedback and choosing appropriate friends.
DATE/TIME Wednesday October 11 6:30pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION Virtual
Caregivers will work with a clinician to create an individualized safety plan for their child/youth outlining de-escalation techniques to avoid the use of physical intervention. This workshop is based on sharing Strategies from the Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® Training Program. Note: Participants will not be certified and physical restraints/ disengagements are not covered in this workshop.
DATE/TIME Monday October 16 6:00pm - 8:00pm
LOCATION Virtual
What is ABA? This workshop will explore the field of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), which is the field of Psychology dedicated to understanding and improving behaviour. Learn how ABA can change behaviour in order to improve the quality of life for all individuals.
DATE/TIME Wednesday October 25 6:30pm - 8:00pm
LOCATION Virtual
register register
register register
Is your child/youth experiencing depression, or could it be “autistic burnout”? Come learn about the signs and symptoms of a concept that is gaining attention in recent years, “autistic burnout”. Let’s discuss how you can support your child through certain lifestyle changes to improve their psychological wellbeing.
DATE/TIME Tuesday November 7 6:00pm - 7:00pm
LOCATION Virtual
Is your child showing readiness signs for toilet training? This workshop will help parents and caregivers recognize readiness skills and patterns of current toileting behaviours and learn toilet training strategies based on the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). This workshop is best suited for parents of children ages 7 and younger.
DATE/TIME Wednesday November 15 6:30pm - 7:30pm
A psycho-educational workshop designed for parents and caregivers to learn about the impacts of trauma. This includes aspects such as the types of trauma, common signs and symptoms following exposure to trauma, and how trauma impacts both the brain and the body. Some basic grounding activities will also be taught, as well as ways to help those who have experienced trauma manage their strong emotions or traumatic memories in the moment. Please note, due to the sensitive nature of this subject matter, all participants will be asked to please leave their cameras off during the presentation, to protect the confidentiality of all those attending.
DATE/TIME Monday November 13 6:00pm - 7:00pm
LOCATION Virtual
This workshop will explore the importance of Respite for all families, with a variety of special needs and diagnoses: Every family needs a basic toolkit, which will help you to navigate your employer/employee relationship in an effective way to manage a healthy routine within your household and the community! Respite care provides short-term relief for primary caregivers. It is a break or pause from your regular activities in life that can allow you as the caregiver to recharge, address your mental health needs and be all you can for your family.
Lynda Foote (nee Peacock) will be talking about her family and community experiences living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and those supports towards forward-thinking advocacy. Lynda will be highlighting experiences as it pertains to her family’s experience and also work within the Northern Ontario and Niagara regions for caregiver supports and ABA Interventionist Trainer focused on delivering Accessible Learning options.
DATE/TIME Tuesday November 14 6:00pm - 8:00pm
LOCATION Virtual
This workshop is designed for parents, caregivers and clinicians to cover a variety of positive behavioural approaches for introducing new foods or expanding food repertoires of children who are picky eaters. Strategies are covered in a practical step-by-step manner to address a range of feeding issues.
DATE/TIME Tuesday November 21 6:30pm - 8:30pm
LOCATION Virtual
This workshop will explore the unique qualities and challenges of children with a dual diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Parents will learn strategies for assisting their children to manage daily living skills and develop strategies to stay focused at school and in the home.
DATE/TIME Wednesday November 22 6:30pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION Virtual
Attendance in this workshop is designed and best suited for caregivers with children ages 15 and younger. This workshop provides you with the information you need to support your child with improving their hygiene habits and routines. You will receive a supplemental package of resources that can be printed at home.
DATE/TIME Wednesday
November 29 6:30pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION Virtual
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and developmental disabilities are more likely to experience challenges with accepting change in everyday routines. This workshop will provide you with Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) based strategies that will help increase your child’s flexibility. You will learn how to break down challenging situations and to support your child through proactive planningteaching them to accept change.
DATE/TIME Wednesday
December 6 6:30pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION Virtual
This workshop in our Introduction to Teaching series will introduce some of the strategies used to teach imitation skills to children. This workshop is most appropriate for children ages 2-6.
DATE/TIME Wednesday December 13 6:30pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION Virtual
The holiday season is often challenging. It can be even more stressful for our family members with a need for consistency and routine. We need to employ all of our “social thinking skills” during this season when we are attending parties, family gatherings, shopping, traveling, etc. How can we do this gracefully and comfortably? This workshop will provide some practical strategies for helping to make the holiday season more joyful.
LOCATION Virtual
DSO Overview for Caregivers
Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) is the access point for adult developmental services funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) in Ontario. This presentation will help parents and caregivers understand how to apply for Ministry-funded adult developmental services. Topics reviewed will include eligibility criteria and documents required, the application process, and the types of services the DSO can help connect people with.
DATE/TIME Tuesday September 12 6:30pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION Virtual
register
The Niagara College ‘Community Integration through Co-operative Education’ (CICE) program is designed to provide individuals with disabilities and other significant learning challenges the opportunity to experience college life and enhance their employability, academic and social skills. This one-hour workshop for parents and caregivers will provide an overview of the Niagara College CICE program including program highlights, admission criteria and process, and important dates and information.
DATE/TIME Tuesday October 10 6:30pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION Virtual
Join us in learning more about income assistance, health care benefits and other Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) measures. Topics reviewed will include eligibility criteria, heath and disability benefits, employment supports, how to apply, etc.
DATE/TIME Tuesday November 7 6:30pm- 7:30pm
LOCATION Virtual
This workshop will review different tips, strategies and other recommendations to help youth to be more successful in completing homework and/or school assignments. There will be a focus on developing organizational strategies to help manage schoolwork and daily living tasks.
DATE/TIME Wednesday
September 20 6:30pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION Virtual
Self-advocacy is learning how to speak up for yourself and make your own decisions about your life. It is about learning how to get information and expressing yourself appropriately. It involves knowing your rights and responsibilities and problem solving. Join your peers to discuss these topics in a safe environment. Learn about different styles of communication (passive, aggressive and assertive) and discuss skills and strategies to be more assertive. Practice, role-play and video modelling are part of this session.
DATE/TIME Wednesday October 4 6:30pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION Virtual
This workshop for kids will address what teasing is, how to avoid being a target, and what to do if you are being teased. This workshop will also provide specific tools and strategies for responding to bullying, including what to do if you are a target, how to handle embarrassing feedback and choosing appropriate friends.
DATE/TIME Wednesday October 18 6:30pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION Virtual
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) teaches strategies for increasing psychological flexibility and living in the present moment. Mindfulness is a strategy taught as part of ACT that helps individuals stay grounded and focused in the present moment. Youth will practice mindfulness activities while learning about the benefits regular mindfulness has for their wellness.
DATE/TIME Wednesday November 1 6:30pm - 7:30pm
This workshop provides youth with information to successfully complete their daily morning routine. Participants will receive a supplemental package of resources. This workshop is best suited for high school aged youth.
DATE/TIME Wednesday November 15 6:30pm - 7:30pm
“Thank you again for offering these sessions. My son truly enjoys them and it gives me such happiness to see him happy. It also give me a bit of time too”
This in-person group is designed for parents with children ages 12 years and older. Has your teen’s behaviour become unpredictable and possibly difficult to handle? Maybe things are going okay, but you realize that it can change quickly and you would like to be prepared if issues should arise? Teen Triple P is a caregiver education course that teaches strategies to help caregivers feel equipped to support their growing and changing teens! Clinicians will use PowerPoint presentations, prepared lessons and video examples in an interactive format to teach and practice strategies that work in real life and provide you the tools you need to start positive parenting right away. This program consists of four in-person group sessions, three individual follow-ups and a final group session. Workbook included.
DATE/TIME Mondays
October 16 - December 4
6:00pm - 8:00pm
LOCATION
In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
Are you interested in learning more about teaching new skills and handling misbehaviour? Triple P is a caregiver education course that focuses on causes of misbehaviour, teaching new skills, increasing desired behaviours, decreasing misbehaviour and survival skills for difficult situations. This course is recommended for caregivers new to the diagnosis of autism or another developmental disability and/or the science of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). This course is appropriate for caregivers with children aged 0-12 years old.
DATE/TIME Mondays
October 16 - December 11
5:45pm - 8:00pm
LOCATION
In person at Welland Diamond Trail
315 Southworth Street
Welland
We are pleased to offer a four-session group for parents/caregivers of children with Down Syndrome who are between the ages of 2-12 years. The group is designed to help parents learn how to teach their children new skills, to improve their abilities and to encourage desirable behaviour. Parents will have an opportunity to develop and try out a plan to teach their child a new skill and to deal with minor misbehaviour. Parents will be offered up to 3 in-home visits during and after the sessions to practice what they have learned with coaching from a clinician.
DATE/TIME Wednesdays
November 8 - November 29
9:30am - 11:30am
register register register
LOCATION
In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
Do you have concerns about your child’s teeth? Is it difficult for your child to attend dental appointments? Does your child require support in seeing the dentist? We can help!
Bethesda has partnered with the Niagara College Dental Program to provide priming tools and support for children with a developmental disability or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis, during a dental appointment and cleaning procedure.
Children must be registered with the Ontario Autism Program or Children’s Behaviour Service at Bethesda in order to participate.
• Children (age 5 – 18) receive a complete oral examination, cleaning, polishing and idividual oral hygiene instruction.
• Radiographs and fluoride treatments are provided as required.
• Fee is $30.00.
• Sealants are available at no charge.
• ABA Clinician from Bethesda will be present to support you and your child.
Wednesday, October 11 and Monday, October 16 5:30pm - 7:30pm
To find the Dental Clinic, enter the main entrance of the Welland Campus off of First Avenue. The clinic is located on the left side of the main lobby once you enter the building.
For children 5-18 years of age. Receipt of payment may be submitted to individual insurance plans if applicable
If you are interested in scheduling an appointment for your child, please call 905.735.2211 ext. 7758 . You may also contact the Dental Clinic by email at ncdentalclinic@niagaracollege.ca.
Please specify that you would like an appointment for the Bethesda clinic day.
On your mark, get set, go! Running, jumping, shooting baskets, kicking balls…this group is designed for children who are active and want to practice and learn new sports. This group is designed for children who can play collaboratively with their peers in a ratio of 3 or more children to 1 staff and will be taught by a therapist who plays sports.
AGES
DATE/TIME
7 -10 years
Saturdays
September 9 - September 30 9:30am - 12:00pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
On your mark, get set, go! Running, jumping, shooting baskets, kicking balls…this group is designed for children who are active and want to practice and learn new sports. This group is designed for children who can play collaboratively with their peers in a ratio of 3 or more children to 1 staff and will be taught by a therapist who plays sports.
AGES
DATE/TIME
11- 15 years
Saturdays
September 9 - September 30 9:30am - 12:00pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
Please note that there is a limit of one recreational group per child.
To ensure a good fit for your child, please review the age requirements and skill levels in the descriptions for each group to make your selections.
This group is designed for children and youth to practice their social skills while completing crafts and art projects together. Children should be comfortable in a group of 3 children to 1 staff ratio.
AGES
DATE/TIME
4 - 6 years
Saturdays
September 9 - September 30
1:00pm - 3:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
This group is designed for children and youth to practice their social skills while completing crafts and art projects together. Children should be comfortable in a group of 3 children to 1 staff ratio.
AGES
DATE/TIME
7 - 10 years
Saturdays
September 9 - September 30 1:00pm - 3:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
Children will learn the basics of how to code using block-based coding in the Tynker app. They can create and modify fun games, including creating mods and resources for Minecraft, then test and play them! This camp is created for youth who can follow multi-step instructions and are comfortable with a ratio of 5 youth per 1 staff.
AGES
DATE/TIME
8 - 12 years
Tuesdays
September 12 - October 24 6:00pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
This group is designed for children and youth to practice their social skills through collaborative play while also receiving one on one support. This group provides one on one support to children with higher support needs.
AGES
DATE/TIME
All ages (limited spaces)
Thursdays
September 14 - October 19 6:00pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
register
This group is designed for children and youth to practice their social skills through play and to meet like-minded peers. This group will take place at Community Living Port Colborne. Children and youth will learn new board games and practice with their peers. Children should be comfortable in a ratio of three children to one staff.
AGES
DATE/TIME
12+ years
Thursdays
September 14 - October 19 6:00pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION In person at Community Living Port Colborne 100 McRae Avenue
register
This group is designed for children and youth to practice their social skills while completing crafts and art projects together. Children should be comfortable in a group of 3 children to 1 staff ratio.
AGES
DATE/TIME
6- 8 years
Saturdays
October 14 - November 11 9:30am - 12:00pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
This group is designed for children and youth to practice their social skills while completing crafts and art projects together. Children should be comfortable in a group of 3 children to 1 staff ratio. This group will have an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter present to support children who are deaf or hard of hearing.
AGES
DATE/TIME
8 - 12 years
Saturdays
October 14 - November 11 9:30am - 12:00pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold
This group is designed for children and youth to practice their social skills through cooking and learning kitchen safety skills together. Children should be comfortable in a group of 3 children to 1 staff ratio. Limited spots available.
AGES
DATE/TIME
10 - 13 years
Saturdays
October 14 - November 11
1:00pm - 3:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
This group is designed for children and youth to practice their social skills through cooking and learning kitchen safety skills together. Children should be comfortable in a group of 3 children to 1 staff ratio. Limited spots available.
AGES
DATE/TIME
13+ years
Saturdays
October 14 - November 11 1:00pm - 3:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
This group is designed for children and youth to practice their social skills through collaborative play while also receiving one on one support. This group provides one on one support to children with higher support needs.
AGES
DATE/TIME
All ages (limited spaces)
Thursdays
October 19 - November 30 6:00pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
This group is designed for teens who are interested in strategy games and want to learn and play chess. Have fun with peers who have similar interests and build your strategy gaming skills! This group is designed for teens who are comfortable with peers in a ratio of 5 teens to one staff.
AGES
DATE/TIME
12+ years
Thursdays October 26 - December 14 6:00pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
register register register register
Children will learn the basics of how to code using block-based coding in the Tynker app. They can create and modify fun games, including creating mods and resources for Minecraft, then test and play them! This camp is created for youth who can follow multi-step instructions and are comfortable with a ratio of 5 youth per 1 staff.
AGES
DATE/TIME
10+ years
Tuesdays
November 7 - December 19
6:00pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
This group is designed for children and youth to practice their social skills through play and to meet like-minded peers. Children and youth will participate in a lesson and practice their new skills during interactive games and activities. Children should be comfortable in 1:3 ratio, limited spots available.
AGES
DATE/TIME
8 - 12 years
Saturdays
November 18 - December 16
9:30am - 12:00pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
This group is designed for children and youth to practice their social skills through play and to meet like-minded peers. Children and youth will participate in a lesson and practice their new skills during interactive games and activities. Children should be comfortable in 1:3 ratio, limited spots available.
AGES
DATE/TIME
4 - 7 years
Saturdays
November 18 - December 16 1:00pm - 3:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
This group is designed for children and youth to practice their social skills through collaborative play while also receiving one on one support. This group provides one on one support to children with higher support needs.
AGES
DATE/TIME
4 - 10 years
Saturdays
November 18 - December 16
9:30am - 12:00pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
This group is designed for children and youth to practice their social skills through collaborative play while also receiving one on one support. This group provides one on one support to children with higher support needs.
AGES
DATE/TIME
10+ years
Saturdays
November 18 - December 16 1:00pm - 3:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
register register
In this group children will work collaboratively to build creative structures and work on sportsmanship skills. This group is designed for children who can work in groups with minimal prompting and support -verbal and collaborative play is present.
AGES
DATE/TIME
9 - 12 years
Mondays
September 11 - October 30
(no session October 9) 6:00 - 7:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
In this group, youth will learn about and practice important social skills, such as initiating, maintaining and ending a conversation; how to join into an activity, phone calls and electronic communication; appropriate use of humour; and hosting a get together. This program is appropriate for youth who do better in smaller groups and require additional supports. They must be able to follow and understand one-step instructions independently, communicate using verbal requests, comments and questions, and can participate in a group setting without 1:1 support. Skills will be taught in a group format using Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) evidence based strategies.
AGES
DATE/TIME
10 - 14 years
Mondays
September 11 - October 30
(no session October 9) 6:00 - 7:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
Please note that there is a limit of one clinical group per child.
To ensure a good fit for your child, please review the age requirements and skill levels in the descriptions for each group to make your selections.
In Part One of this group, participants will learn about gender identity and expression, different types of relationships, public vs. private behaviours, friendship, communication and decision making related to sexuality and health. This group is ideal for teens and young adults who already have a basic understanding of puberty and who can participate in online activities and discussion.
AGES
DATE/TIME
16+ years
Tuesdays
September 12 - October 10
6:00 - 7:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
The Keeping Your Cool series will teach children to identify their emotions, learn how their emotions impact others, and explore practical strategies for regulating their emotions. This series will focus on using Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) strategies to teach the concepts and use of the Zones of Regulation. This program is appropriate for children who can follow multi-step instructions independently, communicate using verbal requests, comments, and questions and can participate in a group setting without 1:1 support.
AGES
DATE/TIME
9 - 12 years
Wednesdays
September 13 - October 25 6:00 - 7:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
Home Alone is an interactive group where children can learn and practice social and life skills related to staying safe when alone. Group topics include stranger awareness, what to do in an emergency, home safety, calling 911, basic care for minor scrapes and cuts, internet safety, establishing a home alone routine, locking and unlocking a door and being responsible with a house key. This program is appropriate for youth who can follow multi-step instructions independently, communicate verbally and can participate in an in-person group setting.
AGES
DATE/TIME
10+ years
Thursdays
September 14- October 12 6:00pm- 7:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
AIM is a curriculum that combines Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness to address social and emotional challenges in children. AIM incorporates a variety of developmentally appropriate, sensory focused, and engaging activities to increase flexible and adaptive behaviours. AIM focuses on accepting the things that have happened (both good and bad), identifying what is really important, and making decisions that move you toward your goals. AIM Part 1 introduces participants to the concepts that will be used throughout this curriculum. AIM Part 1 is a prerequisite to other groups in the AIM series. This group is appropriate for children who can follow multi-step instructions independently, communicate using verbal requests, comments, and questions, and can participate without 1:1 support in a group setting.
AGES
DATE/TIME
10- 14 years
Thursdays
September 14- October 12
6:00- 7:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
Taylor the Turtle: My Body Belongs to Me is a sexual abuse prevention program founded on concepts of emotional literacy within a framework of human rights language. The focus is to build capacity for selfexpression, resilience, and protective factors. The program differs from traditional prevention programs by the omission of scary scenarios. Taylor emphasizes the positive and the connection between mind and body. This program will be delivered over six one-hour sessions that teach children their basic rights to feel safe at home, in their school, in their community, and in their own body. Each week will target one or two lessons from the Taylor the Turtle: My Body Belongs to Me program, taught through discussion, music, art, and story telling. This group will be facilitated by a registered Social Worker. Children must be able to play cooperatively with peers in a 4 children to 1 staff ratio.
AGES
DATE/TIME
7 - 10 years
Mondays
September 18 - October 30 (no session October 9) 4:00pm - 5:00pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
PEERS is an evidence based social skills intervention for motivated teens currently in high school who are interested in making and keeping friends and/or handling conflict. Teens and parents attend 14-weekly group sessions for 90 minutes per week. Teens are taught social skills through didactic lessons and role-play demonstrations, and practice these skills during group socialization activities. Parents attend separate sessions simultaneously and are taught how to assist their teens in making and keeping friends. Parent participation required.
AGES
DATE/TIME
14+ years Wednesdays
September 20 - December 20 6:00 - 7:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold
register
Come play and explore with various percussion instruments, while creating pleasurable musical experiences with other kids your age. We will have a safe and positive outlet for self-expression through playing instruments of choice, singing along to familiar and new songs, moving to the music we create together and having fun learning together! Groups are lead by an experienced and certified Music Therapist.
AGES
DATE/TIME
5 - 8 years
Wednesdays
October 4 - November 22
5:00pm - 5:45pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
register
Come play and explore with various percussion instruments, while creating pleasurable musical experiences with other kids your age. We will have a safe and positive outlet for self-expression through playing instruments of choice, singing along to familiar and new songs, moving to the music we create together and having fun learning together! Groups are lead by an experienced and certified Music Therapist.
AGES
DATE/TIME
9 - 12 years
Wednesdays
October 4 - November 22
6:00pm - 6:45pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
Come play and explore with various percussion instruments, while creating pleasurable musical experiences with other kids your age. We will have a safe and positive outlet for self-expression through playing instruments of choice, singing along to familiar and new songs, moving to the music we create together and having fun learning together! Groups are lead by an experienced and certified Music Therapist. Caregiver is required to stay for this group.
AGES
DATE/TIME
3 - 5 years
Fridays
October 6 - November 24 11:00am - 11:45am
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
register register
In part two of this group, participants will learn about developing romantic relationships, safe internet and social media use, how to be in a safe relationship, as well as your body and how to care for it. This group is ideal for teens and young adults who already have a basic understanding of puberty and who can participate in online activities and discussion. Participation in Part 1 is not required, however, it is recommended to enhance learning.
AGES
DATE/TIME
16+ years
Tuesdays
October 24- November 21
6:00pm- 7:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
The Keeping Your Cool series will teach children to identify their emotions, learn how their emotions impact others, and explore practical strategies for regulating their emotions. This series will focus on using Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) strategies to teach the concepts and use of the Zones of Regulation. This program is appropriate for children who can follow multi-step instructions independently, communicate using verbal requests, comments, and questions and can participate in a group setting without 1:1 support.
AGES
DATE/TIME
10 - 14 years
Wednesdays
November 1 - December 13 6:00pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
AIM is a curriculum that combines Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness to address social and emotional challenges in children. AIM incorporates a variety of developmentally appropriate, sensory focused, and engaging activities to increase flexible and adaptive behaviours. AIM focuses on accepting the things that have happened (both good and bad), identifying what is really important, and making decisions that move you toward your goals. AIM Part 1 introduces participants to the concepts that will be used throughout this curriculum. This group is appropriate for children who can follow multi-step instructions independently, communicate using verbal requests, comments, and questions, and can participate without 1:1 support in a group setting.
AGES
DATE/TIME
10 - 14 years
Thursdays
November 2 - December 7 6:00 - 7:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
register
Children will learn a variety of social skills (initiating/exiting conversations, joining into conversations, exiting conversations) and have an opportunity to practice these skills with peers. Children will learn these skills by being a social detective! Skills will be taught in a group format using Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) evidence based strategies. This program is appropriate for children who can follow multistep instructions independently, communicate using verbal requests, comments, and questions and can participate in a group setting without 1:1 support.
AGES
DATE/TIME
6 - 9 years
Mondays
November 6 - December 18 6:00 - 7:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
In this group children will learn the basics of cooking and hygiene. Have fun following a recipe to create tasty food that can then be enjoyed by all. This group is designed for children who can safely work in small groups with a ratio of 3 youth to 1 staff and follow multi-step instructions in a kitchen environment.
AGES
DATE/TIME
10 - 14 years
Mondays
November 6 - December 18 6:00 - 7:30pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
“My kids absolutely loved the program at Bethesda, we are so grateful for this service. The staff are wonderful and do amazing activities with the kids.”
Fall fun for the entire family! Enjoy a hayride and visit the pumpkin patch; see all the colourful gourds, squash, pumpkins and apples; visit the animal viewing area and walk through a corn maze.
AGES
DATE/TIME
All Ages Saturday September 30
9:30am - 11:30am OR 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Register for the Morning Group
Saturday, September 30 9:30am - 11:30am
LOCATION In person at Warner’s Ranch & Pumpkin Farm 7705 Schisler Road Welland
Register for the Afternoon Group
Saturday, September 30 1:00pm - 3:00pm
register register
An evening of fall family community around a campfire singalong under the stars. Enjoy time in the barn for indoor crafts and refreshments. This is an event for the entire family.
AGES
DATE/TIME
All Ages Wednesday October 18 5:00pm - 8:00pm
LOCATION In person at Balls Falls
3292 Sixth Avenue Lincoln
Join us for an opportunity for the whole family to make connections. Children and siblings will enjoy making new friends in a safe environment while parents interact with each other separately. Power House will be leading activities for siblings. Siblings ages 5+ are welcome to join for Powerhouse programming.
AGES
DATE/TIME
All Ages Monday November 27 5:30pm - 7:00pm
LOCATION In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
register register
Calling all teens looking to become a peer mentor this year! Bethesda is offering a peer mentor training program taking place virtually with 1.5 hour sessions beginning in November. This training will outline expectations as a peer mentor including roles and responsibilities, conflict resolution and leadership skills. The goal is to empower future leaders to come along side and support other youth throughout the 2024 year!
AGES
DATE/TIME
14+ years
Dates/Times to be determined
LOCATION Virtual
Coffee Chats are a parent support group in which parents/grandparents/guardians come together virtually to learn, grow and find connections. This group is led by our service coordinator Tonya White and runs throughout the year to offer emotional support to families. It is an opportunity for families to meet and make meaningful connections with other families, some who are just starting their journey in receiving a diagnosis. Families share and gain practical advice and insights from one another in a safe, non-judgemental space.
AGES
DATE/TIME
Parents of children and teens all ages
Mondays, bi-weekly
VIRTUAL: September 18, October 2, 16, November 13, and December 11
In Person: October 30 (Caregivers only, no childcare) November 27 (Family night, child activities provided) 7:00pm - 8:00pm
LOCATION A mix of virtual and in person at Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold
Join us for an opportunity to make connections, share ideas and experiences, and ask and answer questions with the support of other families. For parents of children 4 years and younger accessing Entry to School Program and Caregiver Mediated programs at Bethesda.
AGES
DATE/TIME
Parents of children 4 years and younger
Mondays
September 18, October 16, November 20 and December 18 7:00pm - 8:00pm
LOCATION Virtual
In Partnership with the Powerhouse Project, this group is designed for young children who have a sibling diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The virtual group will include a number of activities to help foster and build resilience in siblings taking on a caregiving role.
AGES
DATE/TIME
7 - 12 years
Mondays September 18 - December 18 5:30pm - 6:30pm
LOCATION Virtual
register
Spend your PD day with us to practice your social skills by engaging in games and activities. Children should be comfortable in 1:3 ratio, limited spots available.
AGES
DATE/TIME
5 - 12 years
Friday October 6 and November 24 9:00am - 12:00pm
Register for the October PD Day
Friday, October 6 9:00am - 12:00pm
LOCATION
In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold
Register for the November PD Day
Friday, November 24 9:00am - 12:00pm
register register
As you start your journey and transition into the new school year, we want you to know that Bethesda is here to support you. Don’t miss out on our Back to School Guide with resources and strategies to support a successful school year.
