Bethesda Children and Youth Services | Winter Service Guide by Bethesda Niagara

Children and Youth Services Winter Service Guide E E FR Foundational Family Services

January to

March 2024

Join our Bethesda Community We are here for you

How do I get started with Bethesda’s Free Foundational Family Services? Create your account through Bethesda’s membership portal.

Step 1

*Your account will be approved within three (3) days. If you already have an account, log in.

Step 2

Step 3

Review the events in this guide to find the best programs for you and your family. Please note there is a limit of one recreational and one clinical group service per child. Register for your selections. If your preferred group is full, register for that group’s waitlist. Service Coordinators review and confirm registrants before each group begins and room may become available for you.

A Service Coordinator is available and ready to help! Contact a Service Coordinator by filling out this Request a Call Back form

Tonya White Service Coordinator/Interventionist Children and Youth Services

or by calling 905.684.6918 ext. 170 or by emailing serviceinfo@bethesdaservices.com

Jennifer Marinelli B.A Service Coordinator/Interventionist Children and Youth Services

Table of Contents 6

Workshops

Caregiver Learning Series

Recreational Group Services

Clinical Group Services

Family Events

Family Support Groups

From the first contact we made, everyone at Bethesda makes you feel welcome, supported and validated. I cannot stress how fantastic the services are and the level of caring individuals that are connected to Bethesda. - Bethesda Caregiver 3

What is a Brief Consultation Brief Consultations are single or time-limited (1-3) individualized sessions that are focused on a specific need or goal. Examples of topics that can be discussed during a brief consultation appointment include, but are not limited to:

Behaviour concerns

Learning about community resources

Increasing independence

Teaching new skills

Completing OAP registration and funding applications

Parents/caregivers can meet with a clinican to discuss strategies for : • social skills • life skills • communication skills • behaviour concerns • and much more Consult appointments can be with a variety of clinicians including: • Behaviour Therapist • Applied Behaviour Analysist (ABA) Therapist • Speech Language Pathologist • Occupational Therapist • Registered Early Childhood Educator • Service Coordinators

We will tailor services to meet your needs! Are you unable to attend a specific group or workshop, or do you have an idea about specific programming you would like to see offered?

We want to hear from you! Contact us today to tell us how we can better help your family!

serviceinfo@bethesdaservices.com

Workshops and Caregiver Learning Series Understanding the Ontario Autism Program Service Coordination and Funding Options 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 LOCATION appointment upon request. Phone 905.684.6918 ext.170

Virtual, phone, or in-person appointments available.

Caregiver Workshops How to Talk to Your Child About Their Diagnosis Many parents wonder when, what, and how to share a diagnosis with their child. This workshop explores strategies that can be used, as well as ways to help your child and their sibling(s) understand what a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or another intellectual and/or developmental disability means to them. DATE/TIME

Tuesday January 16 6:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Power of Play This workshop in our Introduction to Teaching series will review the importance of play and the basics of teaching your child early play skills such as imitation of others, joint attention, turn taking and pretend play. DATE/TIME

Wednesday January 17 6:30pm- 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Understanding and Improving Communication in Your Child This workshop will help caregivers to better understand terms, definitions and different components of communication. Learn how to build motivating communication opportunities into everyday activities and identify strategies to increase your child’s communication. Two follow up consultations are provided to review how the strategies are working for you. DATE/TIME

Tuesday January 23 6:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Improving Sleep Caregivers will learn strategies that can be used to help children fall asleep and maintain a full night’s sleep. After attending the workshop, two individualized consultations are provided to support you with practicing these skills at home. DATE/TIME

Wednesday January 24 6:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Desensitization Desensitization is a term we use in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) to describe teaching tolerance to activities or situations the child finds difficult. Join this workshop to learn some practical ways to increase your child’s tolerance level to non-preferred items. Two follow up consultations are provided to review how the strategies are working for you. DATE/TIME

Tuesday January 30 6:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Introduction to Effectively Using Visual Schedules Visuals are an important part of the kindergarten classroom. This workshop will review the importance of visual schedules and introduce you to using visuals with your child in your home before school begins. After attending the workshop, two individualized consultations are provided to give you an opportunity to discuss the implementation of strategies in your home. Resources will also be provided to each family to ensure you have the visuals you need at home to practice. DATE/TIME

Wednesday January 31 6:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Supporting Siblings This workshop for parents and caregivers will discuss supporting the siblings of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and/or other developmental disabilities. Topics will include sibling relationships, how having a sibling with ASD or other disabilities may affect that relationship, and the Glass Child phenomenon. Some general strategies for helping your siblings to find ways to co-exist will be discussed, and additional resources for places to find sibling support will be provided. DATE/TIME

Monday February 5 6:00pm - 7:00pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Sensory Processing and Behaviour: Understanding the Links and General Strategies This workshop will provide parents and caregivers an introduction to understanding sensory processing and behaviour, as well as some strategies to use with their child. Two follow up consultations are provided to review how the strategies are working for you. DATE/TIME

Tuesday February 6 6:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Nonviolent Crisis Intervention ® Training Program 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

Tuesday February 13 6:30pm - 8:00pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Relationships and Sexuality Workshop This workshop introduces parents to issues related to sexuality and relationships for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Parents will learn about a variety of areas that their teen may need to learn to navigate, areas like private and public behaviours, consent, boundaries, and sexual health. DATE/TIME

Tuesday February 20 6:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Social Services at Home (SSAH) and Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities

12:00pm1:30pm

Our Service Coordinators will help to provide support with completing applications online for families who have not applied. Families are encouraged to bring their laptops and iPad’s to complete applications, laptops will also be available on a first come, first served basis. This workshop is appropriate for families applying for the first time only.

DATE/TIME

Thursday February 22 12:00pm -1:30pm or 5:30pm - 7:00pm

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

5:30pm7:00pm

Internet Safety Workshop This interactive workshop designed for caregivers who are interested in learning tools and strategies to support their teens in using the internet safely. DATE/TIME

Tuesday February 27 6:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

These groups are amazing! My son has learned so much, skills I am not equipped to teach him myself. I am so grateful to Bethesda for offering such a wide range of learning and social groups that my son can participate in. - Bethesda Caregiver 10

Understanding Grief This workshop for parents and caregivers explores the complex state of grief and grieving. The process of grieving will be explored through multiple lenses, as well as highlighting the best ways to talk to children about grief and death, and how to support children who are grieving. Additional information on where to find support around grief will also be shared. DATE/TIME

Monday March 4 6:00pm - 7:00pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Picky Eating This workshop is designed for parents, caregivers and clinicians to cover a variety of positive behavioural approaches to 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 March 26 6:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Caregiver Educational Courses Building Blocks Building Blocks is a group for preschool children and their caregivers. Children will participate in developmentally appropriate activities like a circle time, craft, snacks, and structured play activities with peers. Caregivers will participate in a weekly workshop with a Behaviour Therapist and Registered Early Childhood Educator on topics like Using Visual Supports, Positive Behaviour Supports, Play Skills, and Communication. Caregivers will then join their child in the group for a closing activity to practice the skills and strategies that are being used in the group with their child. This group requires that both a caregiver and child attend every group. AGES

For children born in 2020 and 2021

DATE/TIME

Tuesdays January 9 - February 13 4:30pm - 6:00pm

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

Building Blocks Building Blocks is a group for preschool children and their caregivers. Children will participate in developmentally appropriate activities like a circle time, craft, snacks, and structured play activities with peers. Caregivers will participate in a weekly workshop with a Behaviour Therapist and Registered Early Childhood Educator on topics like Using Visual Supports, Positive Behaviour Supports, Play Skills, and Communication. Caregivers will then join their child in the group for a closing activity to practice the skills and strategies that are being used in the group with their child. This group requires that both a caregiver and child attend every group.

AGES

For children born in 2020 and 2021

DATE/TIME

Fridays January 12 - February 16 9:30am - 11:00am

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an approach to life that teaches us how to become more psychologically flexible. This approach helps us to embrace life, mindfully connecting to things that are of importance to us. We learn to struggle less with difficult experiences and feelings. ACT does not attempt to directly change or stop unwanted thoughts or feelings; rather, it helps us develop a new mindful relationship with those experiences. We learn to become more open and live more consistently with who and what we care about. This workshop is for families with children 10 years and older. DATE/TIME

Thursdays January 18 - February 15 6:30pm - 8:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Skill Enhancement for Children with Down Syndrome This four-session group is 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 children a new skill and to deal with minor misbehaviour. DATE/TIME

Mondays January 22 - February 12 6:30pm- 8:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Teen Triple P This 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

Thursdays February 22 - April 11 6:30pm- 8:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

I liked the content of the workshop. (Teen Triple P) The presenters offered a lot of detail and explanations regarding helping children with special needs. This information can provide a great connection between students, parents and/or educators. -Bethesda Caregiver 13

Workshops for Youth 12+ Years Strategies for Successful Homework This workshop will review different tips, strategies and other recommendations to help youth be more successful in completing homework and/or school assignments. DATE/TIME

Thursday January 18 6:30pm- 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Money Management The best thing about having your own money is that you get to decide how to spend it. Whether you get a weekly allowance, get money or a gift card for your birthday, or find 5 bucks on the street, your first task to handling your money well is to think about short-term and long-term goals. It will take a bit of practice to become great with money, but once you get the hang of it you will be one step closer to independence. DATE/TIME

Thursday January 25 6:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

How to Handle Teasing This workshop for kids will address what teasing is, how to avoid being a target, and what to do if you are being teased. DATE/TIME

Thursday February 1 6:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Relationships This workshop introduces youth to issues related to sexuality and relationships. Youth will learn about a variety of areas that they may need to learn to navigate: private and public behaviours, consent, boundaries, and sexual health. DATE/TIME

Thursday February 8 6:30pm- 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Online Safety This interactive workshop designed for teens who are interested in learning tools and strategies for using the internet safely. Topics include digital etiquette, risks and benefits of social media and private vs public information. DATE/TIME

Thursday February 15 6:30pm- 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Dental Clinics 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.

Monday, March 11 1:30 pm and 5:30pm Niagara College Dental Clinic- Welland Campus

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.

Cost is $30

For children 5-18 years of age. Receipt of payment may be submitted to individual insurance plans if applicable

To register

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.

Bethesda is our home away from home. It’s our safe place. It’s our advocate. It’s our shoulder to cry on when in need and our cheerleader when we succeed. It’s our strength when we feel weak. -Bethesda Caregiver

Community Speaker Spotlight Series John Howard Society The John Howard Society of Niagara is committed to facilitating positive personal growth through Prevention, Employment, Education and Justice programs that enrich the communities of the Niagara Region. Join this Spotlight Speaker presentation to learn about John Howard Niagara’s Job Gym Services, Psycho-educational programs, Strengthening Families for the Future program, Recipe for Success program, and their Justice programs. DATE/TIME

Tuesday January 23 6:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

Vitual

Contact Niagara and the Youth Wellness Hub register

Join us for a joint presentation by Contact Niagara about what supports and services they offer, along with information about the Youth Wellness Hub Niagara and how your child can access these services. DATE/TIME

Tuesday February 13 6:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Quest Quest Community Health Centre (Quest CHC) is a non-profit registered charitable organization providing primary health care, health promotion, and community capacity building to residents of the St. Catharines area and Niagara Region. This Spotlight Speaker presentation will highlight Quest’s Rainbow Niagara 2SLGBTQ+ Services as well as the other programs and services that Quest offers that would be appropriate for the clients and families that attend Bethesda. DATE/TIME

Tuesday March 5 6:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Children and Youth Recreational Group Services Please note that there is a limit of one recreational group per child. Please review the age requirements and skill levels in the descriptions for each group to make your selections. Sensory Explorers In this group, children will explore a variety of crafts and sensory activities geared to preschool aged children. Your child will have the opportunity to create their own sensory masterpiece and take it home with them to enjoy! AGES

2- 5 years

DATE/TIME

Wednesday January 10 9:30am - 11:00am

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

Teen Lounge Are you looking for a cool and fun place to hang out and make friends? Join us for Teen Lounge, our teen hangout night, where you can enjoy a variety of activities like video games, movies, in-centre laser tag, relaxing and listening to music, and more! Community activities may be arranged periodically with the teens (eg. movies, mall visit, etc.). Teens must be comfortable in the community in a 1:3 ratio. AGES

13+ years

DATE/TIME

Fridays January 12, 26 February 9, 23 March 8, 22 5:00pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

Create! This group is designed for children and youth to practice their social skills through play and to meet like-minded peers. Different activities may include art, playdoh and a simple recipe. Children should be comfortable in 1:3 ratio, limited spots available.

AGES

6- 8 years

DATE/TIME

Saturdays January 13 - February 10 9:30am - 12:00pm

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

9- 12 years

DATE/TIME

Saturdays January 13 - February 10 9:30am - 12:00pm

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

Sports Club This group is designed for children and youth to practice their social skills through play and to meet likeminded peers. Children should be comfortable in 1:3 ratio, limited spots available. AGES

9- 12 years

DATE/TIME

Saturdays January 13- February 10 1:00pm - 3:30pm

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

13+ years

DATE/TIME

Saturdays January 13- February 10 1:00pm - 3:30pm

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

Coding Club 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

9 - 12 years

DATE/TIME

Mondays January 15 - February 12 6:00pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

Comedy Club This group is designed for children and youth who enjoy telling jokes and sharing funny stories. Participants will have the opportunity to make a list of their best jokes, become comfortable presenting them in front of an audience, and learning what types of jokes are appropriate to make. Children should be comfortable in a ratio of 3 youth per 1 staff. AGES

10- 14 years

DATE/TIME

Tuesdays January 16 - February 13 6:00pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

Arts and Crafts 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

7- 11 years

DATE/TIME

Wednesdays January 17 - February 14 6:00pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

This is an excellent program giving very helpful ideas to promote friendships among young people. - Bethesda Caregiver

Junior Scientists This group is designed to provide a fun and engaging environment for children to learn about science. The experiments are designed to be hands on and interactive to create a stimulating and engaging learning environment. AGES

2- 5 years

DATE/TIME

Thursday January 18 9:30am - 11:00am

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

Super Friends This group is designed for children and youth to practice their social skills though collaborative play while also receiving one on one support. AGES

7- 12 years

DATE/TIME

Thursdays January 18 - February 15 6:00pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

Mini Makers In this group, children will explore a variety of crafts geared to preschool aged children. Your child will have the opportunity to create their very own masterpiece. AGES

2- 5 years

DATE/TIME

Wednesday January 24 10:00am - 11:00am

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

Create! This group is designed for children and youth to practice their social skills through play and to meet like-minded peers. Different activities include playdoh and art. Children should be comfortable in 1:3 ratio, limited spots available. AGES

6- 8 years

DATE/TIME

Saturdays February 17 - March 16 9:30am - 12:00pm

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

9-12 years

DATE/TIME

Saturdays Feburary 17- March 16 1:00pm - 3:30pm

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

I can not thank Bethesda enough for being that place we can lean on to guide and support us through life. Bethesda is family. - Bethesda Caregiver

Culinary Kids This group is designed for children and youth to practice kitchen skills practicing a simple recipe as a group. Children should be comfortable in a 1:3 ratio in the kitchen. AGES

9- 12 years

DATE/TIME

Saturdays February 17- March 16 9:30am - 12:00pm

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

Teen Taste Testers This group is designed for children and youth to practice kitchen skills practicing a simple recipe as a group. Children should be comfortable in a 1:3 ratio in the kitchen. AGES

12- 15 years

DATE/TIME

Saturdays February 17 - March 16 1:00pm - 3:30pm

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

Children and Youth Clinical Group Services 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.

Master Chef 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

11- 14 years

DATE/TIME

Mondays January 15 - March 4 (no session February 19 for Family Day) 6:00 - 7:30pm

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

Understanding Safe and Healthy Relationships and Sexuality for Young Adults | Part Three In Part 3 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

15- 18 years

DATE/TIME

Tuesdays January 16- February 13 6:00 - 7:30pm

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

Lego Club In this group children will work colaboratively 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. Children should be comfortable in 1:3 ratio, limited spots available. AGES

7- 10 years

DATE/TIME

Wednesdays January 17 - February 28 6:00 - 7:30pm

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

Unstuck and On Target This group focuses on teaching children concepts around flexible thinking such as coping skills, big and little issues, compromise, and plan A-B-C. These skills are then applied throughout their everyday life. Children should be comfortable in 1:3 ratio, limited spots available. AGES 8 - 12 years LOCATION In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre DATE/TIME Thursdays 3310 Schmon Parkway January 18- February 29 Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6 6:00 - 7:30pm

Family Events Spring Family Day Spring is in the air! Join us on Saturday, March 23 to meet some members from our team, have your face painted and jump on the bouncy castle. We can’t wait to see you! AGES

All Ages

LOCATION

DATE/TIME

Saturday March 23 9:30am - 11:30am OR 1:00pm - 3:00pm

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

Bethesda always exceeds my expectations with the preparations of the staff for their camps. - Bethesda Caregiver

Family Support Groups Peer Mentorship Program 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 February. 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 alongside and support other youth throughout the 2024 year! AGES 14+ years LOCATION In Person and Virtual DATE/TIME

Dates/times to be determined

Sibling Resilience Support Group 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

7 - 12 years

LOCATION

DATE/TIME

Mondays January 15- March 25 (No session Family Day: February 19 or March Break: March 11-15) 5:30pm - 6:30pm

Virtual

Coffee Chats Parent Support Group 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

Parents of children and teens all ages

DATE/TIME

Mondays bi-weekly Morning Groups: 10:30am - 11:30am January 15, February 12, March 4 Evening Groups: 6:30pm - 7:30pm January 29, February 26, March 25

LOCATION

Morning Groups

Evening Groups

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

PD Day Recreational Groups 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

6- 12 years

DATE/TIME

Fridays January 19 and February 16 9:00am - 12:00pm

LOCATION In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

Date Night Need some time to relax and reconnect with your partner? Drop off your kids at Bethesda, where they will enjoy games, crafts, movies and more! You can enjoy a night out without worrying about your little ones. The group is open to kids aged 4 to 12. Space is limited, spots are limited to one evening per family.

AGES

4- 12 years

DATE/TIME

Fridays January 19, February 2, 16 March 1, 15 5:00pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

In person at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6

Date Night Friday, January 19 5:00pm - 7:30pm

Date Night Friday, February 2 5:00pm - 7:30pm

Date Night Friday, February 16 5:00pm - 7:30pm

Date Night Friday, March 1 5:00pm - 7:30pm

Date Night Friday, March 15 5:00pm - 7:30pm

Hair Cutting Clinics Do you have challenges getting your child’s hair cut? If this is a stressful ordeal for you, here is a wonderful opportunity for get a professional hair cut for your child in a safe environment. Our Bethesda Staff Chrissy is a professional hair dresser who has experience and skills with children with ASD and complex needs. Each child will receive an hour time slot for a personalized hair cut service.

We are constantly adding new dates and times for our popular Hair Cutting Clinic! Check back often to find a time slot that works for your family!

View Hair Cutting Clinic dates and times

Create a Membership

Membership needs to be confirmed before you can begin registering for events. Follow these steps to create a membership account through Bethesda’s portal: 1. Navigate to bethesdaservices.com > Select Children & Youth Services in the menu bar > Select Client Login from the secondary menu bar. 2. Select Membership Level > Family/Child/Youth Services - Free > Click Next. 3. Enter your Email Address > Click I’m not a robot > Click Next. If you will be creating accounts for more than one child, please register each child with a unique email address.

4. Enter the requested client information for your child > Click Next. 5. Review and confirm the membership information > Click Confirm. 6. Once your membership application has been reviewed and accepted by a Service Coordinator, you will receive an email from admin@portal.bethesdaservices.com with a temporary password. 7. Please log in using provided temporary password and immediately chnage your password to one you will more easily remember by clicking the Change password button. 8. Enter your current and new password (new password must include at least 12 characters, upper and lower case letters, at least one number and at least one special character.) > Click Save. Your website membership application is now complete! If you require assistance with creating your membership account, please connect with a Service Coordinator at 905.684.6918 ext. 170 or serviceinfo@bethesdaservices.com

Connect with Bethesda ONLINE!

facebook.com/bethesda.niagara

instagram.com/bethesda.niagara

linkedin.com/company/bethesdaservices

twitter.com/BethServices 35