Empowering your child’s journey!
At Bethesda, we believe in the power of collaboration, compassionate care, and innovation to unlock your child’s full potential to live their best lives.
Together, we create a supportive environment that celebrates your child’s unique strengths while addressing their individual needs. Our compassionate professionals work hand-in-hand with families to develop individualized plans that integrate seamlessly into your daily lives.
Here’s what sets Bethesda apart:
• Collaborative Culture: We value your expertise as a parent/caregiver. You are the constant in your child’s life, and your insights are invaluable. We partner with you to create a unified care plan that leverages your strengths.
• Quality Care: Our team is comprised of highly trained specialists who stay current on the latest research and best practices. We offer a wide range of evidence-based services, including Foundational Family Services and Core Clinical Services, to address your child’s specific needs.
• Innovation in Action: We believe in pushing boundaries and developing innovative approaches that support your child’s success at home, in school, and in the community.
Together we can:
• Set goals: Partnering with you to define your child’s aspirations and establish a roadmap for achieving them.
• Develop Strategies: We collaborate to identify practical techniques you can incorporate into your daily routines to empower your child’s growth.
• Celebrate Progress: We celebrate your child’s achievements and work together to measure and track their development.
• Plan for the Future: We continuously assess your child’s needs and collaboratively determine the next steps in their journey.
How do I get started with Bethesda’s Free Foundational Family Services?
Create your account through Bethesda’s membership portal. See page 38
*Your account will be approved within three (3) days.
If you already have an account, log in.
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.
Step 3
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. Step 1 Step 2
Nous sommes heureux d’offrir des services en français sur demande. We are pleased to offer services in French upon request.
Keep an eye out for these icons:
Pending
Approved
Cancelled
These icons will give you direction on the status of your registration!
PENDING
Your registration request is being reviewed. Stay tuned for your confirmation email.
APPROVED
Your registration is approved and you are confirmed for the event!
CANCELLED
Your registration has been cancelled for one of the following reasons: at your request, the event was cancelled, or we are following up with you to plan service that meets the needs of your family.
WAITLIST
You have been successfully added to the waitlist for this event. We will contact you directly to let you know when a spot is available.
SERVICE COORDINATOR
Your Service Coordinators are here to help! Contact a Service Coordinator if you have any questions!
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
Increasing independence
Learning about community resources
Completing OAP registration and funding applications
Teaching new skills
Parents/caregivers can meet with a clinican to discuss strategies for :
• social skills
• life skills
• communication skills
• behaviour concerns
• and much more
Consult appointments are available from a variety of clinicians including:
• Behaviour Therapist
• Applied Behaviour Analysist (ABA) Therapist
• Speech Language Pathologist
• Occupational Therapist
• Registered Early Childhood Educator
• Service Coordinators
Contact a Service Coordinator by filling out this
Request a Call Back form or by calling 905.684.6918 ext. 170 or by emailing
serviceinfo@bethesdaservices.com
Tonya White
Workshops and Caregiver Learning Series
Understanding the Ontario Autism Program Service Coordination and Funding Options
Clarifying Autism Services
Meet one on one with a Service Coordinator to help parents and caregivers navigate Autism services in the Niagara Region and the province.
Get clear and concise information about:
• The Ontario Autism Program (OAP): Understand eligibility and explore funding options.
• One-time Funding: Learn about additional financial support available.
• Evidence-based Interventions: Discover the benefits of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) and other proven strategies.
DATE/TIME Available by individual appointment upon request.
Phone 905.684.6918 ext.170
LOCATION Virtual, phone, or in-person appointments available.
Contact us to register
Caregiver Workshops
Bethesda Children and Youth Services is committed to empowering parents and caregivers with knowledge and strategies to support your child’s overall well-being.
This Caregiver Workshop series delves into various topics that can help to improve your and your child’s daily life.
Desensitization
Is your child hesitant to try new things?
This virtual workshop introduces desensitization techniques used in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) to gently increase your child’s tolerance of unfamiliar activities or items. Learn practical strategies to make new experiences more positive, setting your child up for success.
Plus! You will receive two follow-up consultations to personalize these techniques and review how these strategies are working for you.
DATE/TIME Tuesday July 16 6:30pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION Virtual register
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Anxiety
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your child’s anxiety?
This interactive workshop empowers parents and caregivers to navigate the unique challenges faced by children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and anxiety. Led by a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) and a Registered Social Worker, this workshop explores anxiety through both Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) and mental health perspectives.
Gain valuable tools to:
• Understand how anxiety manifests in children with ASD.
• Develop proactive strategies to prevent anxiety before it escalates.
• Learn reactive techniques to manage anxiety in the moment, promoting calmness.
• Implement these strategies effectively at home, creating a supportive environment.
DATE/TIME Tuesday July 23 5:00pm - 7:00pm
LOCATION Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6 register
Understanding and Improving Communication in Your Child
Does your child struggle to express themself?
This virtual workshop equips caregivers with the tools to understand communication development and create a world of connection. Learn about key terms, components of communication, and how to build motivating interactions into daily routines.
We will explore practical strategies to:
• Identify your child’s unique communication style.
• Foster engaging opportunities for expression throughout the day.
• Develop positive reinforcement techniques to encourage communication growth.
Plus! You will receive two personalized follow-up consultations to tailor these strategies to your child’s specific needs and review how these strategies are working for you.
DATE/TIME Tuesday July 30 6:30pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION Virtual register
Sensory Processing and Behaviour:
Understanding the Links and General Strategies
Is your child sometimes overwhelmed by sights, sounds, or textures?
This virtual workshop empowers parents and caregivers to unlock the connection between sensory processing and behaviour. Learn from experts how sensory experiences impact your child.
Discover practical strategies to:
• Identify sensory sensitivities: Understand how your child perceives the world.
• Create a calming environment: Promote a sense of safety and well-being.
• Develop positive behaviour solutions: Address challenges in a supportive way.
Plus! You will receive two personalized follow-up consultations to tailor these strategies to your child’s specific needs and review how these strategies are working for you.
DATE/TIME Tuesday August 6 6:30pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION Virtual register
Understanding Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCD)
Does your child struggle with intrusive thoughts or repetitive behaviours?
This psycho-educational workshop equips parents and caregivers with the knowledge and strategies to support their child with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
We will explore:
• The science behind OCD: Gain insight into how OCD affects the brain and why compulsions occur.
• OCD vs. other anxieties: Learn to differentiate OCD from common childhood anxieties.
• Effective treatment options: Discover evidence-based approaches to manage OCD symptoms.
DATE/TIME Monday August 12 6:00pm - 7:00pm
LOCATION Virtual register
Bethesda has fun activities that are well organized and our family always has fun.
-Bethesda Parent
Transitional Workshops
Getting Ready for Back to School
As you and your family soak up all that summer has to offer, and with a new school year approaching, Bethesda Children and Youth Services is here to support a smooth transition for your child.
This series of Transitional Workshops will equip parents and caregivers with practical tools and strategies to navigate key milestones.
Kindergarten Readiness Skills | Part 1
Will your child be starting Kindergarten soon?
This interactive workshop will help set your child up for success by focusing on essential skills they’ll need in the classroom.
We will explore:
• Fun and engaging ways to practice turn-taking: Make sharing a positive experience!
• Building strong social skills for making new friends: Foster cooperation and communication.
• Strategies for a smooth transition to kindergarten: Ease anxieties and build excitement for school.
DATE/TIME Tuesday August 13 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Change of Season Clothing
Does your child have difficulties transitioning between seasons?
This virtual workshop equips parents and caregivers with practical tips and strategies to make seasonal transitions smoother.
You will learn how to:
• Prepare your child for upcoming changes: Build excitement for new weather and activities.
• Develop calming routines for smoother transitions: Manage meltdowns and anxieties.
• Choose comfortable and practical clothing for each season: Dress your child for success!
DATE/TIME Wednesday August 14 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Kindergarten Readiness Skills | Part 2
Will your child be starting Kindergarten soon?
This interactive workshop builds on strategies learned in Kindergarten Readiness Skills | Part 1, and empowers your child to navigate the classroom with confidence!
We will explore:
• The power of picture schedules: Learn how to create and use visual aids to help your child follow routines independently.
• Building independence with everyday tasks: Discover strategies for self-dressing, cleaning up, and managing personal belongings.
• Empowering your child to thrive in a structured environment: Foster a sense of calm and control as they adjust to kindergarten routines.
DATE/TIME Tuesday August 20 6:30pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION Virtual register
Transition to High School Workshop
Is your teen starting high school this September?
This informative virtual workshop equips you with the knowledge to support your teen’s smooth transition into high school!
Learn how to help your teen with:
• Staying organized and managing time: Develop effective study habits and routines.
• Understanding expectations: Learn about appropriate behavior in high school settings.
• Building strong social skills: Encourage positive interactions with peers.
• Navigating the new school environment: Feel confident navigating larger buildings and schedules.
DATE/TIME Wednesday August 21 6:30pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION Virtual
Make and Take: Prepare for Back to School Transition Back-to-School Routine Workshop
Get ready for a smooth transition back to school with this fun and interactive workshop at Bethesda! This session is designed to equip parents and caregivers with the tools and strategies to create a stress-free morning routine for your child.
What you will gain:
• Hands-on experience creating visuals: We’ll provide materials for personalized firstthen boards, morning routine schedules, and choice boards – all tailored to your child’s needs.
• Expert guidance from therapists: Our therapists will offer tips and tricks on effectively using these visual tools to promote independence and reduce meltdowns.
DATE/TIME Tuesday August 27 4:30pm - 6:30pm
LOCATION Drop-In at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6 register
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 before making your selections.
Arts and Crafts
Let your child unleash their inner artist at Arts and Crafts! This camp for children 7-9 years is all about exploring creativity through a variety of fun activities. Ratio of 3 participants to 1 staff.
Get creative by:
• Drawing and painting: Master new techniques and express yourself on canvas!
• Awesome crafts: Get your hands dirty with cool projects you can take home and show off.
• Sculpting adventures: Mold clay into amazing creations! The sky’s the limit!
• Dramatic fun: Bring your crafts to life with a little acting and storytelling!
register
AGES
DATE/TIME 7-9 years
July 15- July 19 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Coding!
LOCATION In person at St. Anthony Catholic Elementary School 81 Rykert Street
St. Catharines, ON L2S 1Z2
Calling all tech-savvy teens 14-18 years! Learn the coolest coding skills to create and customize your own games. Ratio of 3 participants to 1 staff.
In this group, you will:
• Master block-based coding: Use the fun and easy Tynker app to unlock the secrets of coding.
• Build awesome games: Design your own games from scratch or create epic Minecraft mods!
• Test and play: Bring your creations to life and have a blast testing them out!
AGES
DATE/TIME 14-18 years
July 22-July 25 1:00pm - 4:00pm
LOCATION St. Anthony Catholic Elementary School 81 Rykert Street
St. Catharines, ON L2S 1Z2 register
“Such a great opportunity to teach my little one new skills in a safe and supportive space! Thank you Bethesda!”
-Bethesda
Parent
Lego Club
Calling all creative minds! Join our Lego Club and unleash your imagination with everyone’s favorite building blocks. This program is perfect for youth ages 10-13 who love to build, collaborate, and explore their creativity. Ratio of 3 participants to 1 staff. In this club, you will:
• Work together to design and build amazing Lego creations.
• Develop teamwork and problem-solving skills.
• Foster a fun and supportive environment for creative expression.
AGES
DATE/TIME 10-13 years
July 22-July 25 1:00pm - 4:00pm
LOCATION St. Anthony Catholic Elementary School 81 Rykert Street St. Catharines, ON L2S 1Z2 register
Games Galore
Games Galore is the ultimate summer hangout for youth age 4-6 years who love competition, collaboration, and a good brain challenge! Ratio of 3 participants to 1 staff.
Do you love:
• Thinking strategically? We’ll challenge your brain with puzzles, brainteasers, and game nights.
• Working together? Team up with friends for epic scavenger hunts and game creation sessions.
• A little healthy competition? Put your skills to the test in friendly game battles!
Games Galore is the perfect place to make new friends, have a blast, and become a true game whiz!
AGES
DATE/TIME 4-6 years
August 6 - August 9 9:00am - 12:00pm
LOCATION Oakridge Public School 1 Marsdale Drive
St. Catharines, ON L2T 3R7 register
Teen Lounge
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!
AGES
DATE/TIME 13+ years
August 6- 9 1:00pm - 4:00pm
LOCATION Oakridge Public School 1 Marsdale Drive St. Catharines, ON L2T 3R7
Drama Camp
Drama camp is designed for children who want to explore their creative side! In this group, children will practice speaking in front of others and collaborate with their peers to put together a short performance of their own design.
AGES
DATE/TIME 8-13 years
August 12 -15 9:00am - 12:00pm
LOCATION Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6 register register
Act it Out! Drama and Movement Camp
Is your child a budding actor or drama enthusiast? Our experienced staff will guide them every step of the way during this drama and movement group. Ratio of 3 participants to 1 staff.
At Act it Out, you will:
• Move and groove: Explore fun movement exercises that enhance your dramatic skills and stage presence.
• Make new friends: Bond with like-minded peers who share a passion for performance and creativity.
AGES
DATE/TIME 7-9 years August 12 - August 16 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Arts and Crafts
LOCATION Oakridge Public School 1 Marsdale Drive St. Catharines, ON L2T 3R7 register
Unleash your inner artist at Arts and Crafts! This camp for children 7-9 years is all about exploring your creativity through a variety of fun activities. Ratio of 3 participants to 1 staff.
Get creative by:
• Drawing and painting: Master new techniques and express yourself on canvas!
• Awesome crafts: Get your hands dirty with cool projects you can take home and show off.
• Sculpting adventures: Mold clay into amazing creations! The sky’s the limit!
• Dramatic fun: Bring your crafts to life with a little acting and storytelling!
AGES
DATE/TIME 7-9 years August 19 - August 23 9:00am - 12:00pm
Sensory Explorers
LOCATION In person at Forestview Public School
8406 Forestview Blvd Niagara Falls, ON L2H 0B9 register
Get ready to activate your senses by becoming a Sensory Explorer. Ratio of 3 participants to 1 staff. In this group your child will be provided a safe and structured environment to engage and explore various sensory activities.
AGES
DATE/TIME 10-13 years August 19 1:00pm - 4:00pm
LOCATION Forestview Public School
8406 Forestview Blvd
Niagara Falls, ON L2H 0B9 register
Summer Social
Summer Social is a one-stop shop for summer fun and friendship for children and youth! Get ready to :
• Make awesome new friends: Mingle with other kids who love games, crafts, and just hanging out!
• Unleash your creativity: We’ll have tons of cool crafts and activities to spark your imagination.
• Have a blast playing games: Board games, card games, active games - we’ve got it all!
• Enjoy a safe and supportive environment: Our experienced staff is there to make sure everyone has a fun and friendly experience (ratio of 3 participants to 1 staff).
9-12 years
Tuesdays
July 30 - August 20
5:00pm - 7:00pm register
9-12 years
Wednesdays
July 31 - August 21
5:00pm - 7:00pm register
Register for 4 weekly sessions!
Register for a 5-day camp!
4-6 years
July 29 - August 2 1:00pm - 4:00pm register
7-10 years
August 12 - August 16 1:00pm - 4:00pm register
5-8 years
August 19 - August 23 1:00pm - 4:00pm register
Music and Movement
Please join us for an afternoon or morning filled with music, songs and movement. Children will have an opportunity to sing, dance and create a musical instrument to take home with them. Ratio 3 youth 1 staff.
Register for a 4-day camp!
5-8 years
July 22 - July 25 1:00pm - 4:00pm register
4-6 years
August 6 - August 9 1:00pm - 4:00pm register
9-12 years
July 29 - August 2
Register for a 5-day camp!
9:00am - 12:00pm register
Family Events
Make this summer unforgettable with exciting FREE family events happening throughout the community!
Important Note: While many events are perfect for the whole family, some may cater specifically to your child in service.
This event is for the whole family
This event is open to your child in service only
Family Day at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre
Join us for a fun-filled summer celebration for the whole family at Bethesda Niagara Family Centre! Enjoy games, activities, and making memories together!
AGES
DATE/TIME All ages Saturday, August 24 10:00am - 12:00pm or 1:00pm - 3:00pm Wednesday, August 28 4:30pm - 6:30pm
REGISTER for Saturday, August 24
10:00am - 12:00pm
LOCATION Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6
REGISTER for Saturday, August 24 1:00pm - 3:00pm
REGISTER for Wednesday, August 28 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Therapy Tails Drop-In
Come join us to enjoy some therapeutic relief from the dedicated team of volunteers from Therapy Tails. These volunteers include the four legged, well disciplined, gentle, furry coated, wiggly bummed dogs, who accompany their owners to these visits. Take some time to relax and enjoy the frolicking dogs here with us at the Niagara Family Centre. It’s sure to be a fun and relaxing time for the whole family!
AGES
DATE/TIME All ages July 12 2:00pm - 4:00pm
LOCATION Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6
Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm
Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm provides a fun, free animal viewing and park exploration experience for all ages! Come and enjoy opportunities to see a variety of farm animals up close and experience diverse birds and plants, all in a natural, outdoor setting. The park also features a playground, pavilion and walking trails to explore. This event is open to the whole family!
AGES
DATE/TIME All ages July 19 9:30am - 11:30am
LOCATION Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm 650 Read Road St. Catharines, ON L2R 7K6
Yoga
Come find your Zen! Fun for the whole family, whether you are a yoga master or a beginner come and enjoy this relaxing hour. Please wear comfortable clothing, bring your own water bottle and a yoga mat. *There are limited yoga mats available. This event is kid friendly and there will be staff available to support.
AGES
DATE/TIME All ages July 19 2:00pm - 3:00pm
LOCATION Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6
Playground Drop-In
Are you looking for a fun way to spend the summer with your family? Join us for Bethesda’s Playground Drop-In at the Niagara Family Centre! This event is the perfect opportunity for your child to:
• Make new friends and play together on one of our completely enclosed playground areas.
• Get creative with arts and crafts activities.
• Siblings are welcome to join the fun!
AGES
DATE/TIME All ages July 19 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Drum Circle
LOCATION Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6 register
Calling all beat makers! Join us for a fun and interactive drum circle experience for all ages and abilities. This family-friendly event is the perfect opportunity to connect with your children and explore the joy of making music together. This event is open to the whole family!
AGES
DATE/TIME All ages August 9 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Sharky’s Indoor Playground
LOCATION Bethesda Niagara Family Centre 3310 Schmon Parkway Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6 register
Calling all little explorers! Get ready for a day of fun and adventure at Sharky’s Indoor Playground. This exciting event is perfect for children up to 8 years old who love to climb, slide, and explore. Sharky’s offers a clean and safe environment with a variety of play structures that will challenge your child’s imagination and keep them entertained for hours.This event is open to the whole family!
AGES
DATE/TIME Up to 8 years August 16 9:30am - 11:30am
LOCATION Sharky’s Indoor Playground 16 Steel Street Welland, ON L3B 3L9 register
Swimming
Fun for the whole family: Join us at the Port Dalhousie Outdoor Pool for some fun in the sun! To help ensure your children have a safe and enjoyable swimming experience, we use a colourcoded wristband procedure to identify children at risk. This allows us to adequately supervise any children needing extra assistance in the pool area.
Please Note: All children must always be accompanied within arm’s reach by a parent, guardian or designate (caregiver) who is at least 14 years old or can pass the facility swim test.
AGES
DATE/TIME All ages August 16 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm
LOCATION Port Dalhousie Outdoor Pool
205 Main Street St. Catharines, ON L2N 4V9 register
Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm provides a fun, free animal viewing and park exploration experience for all ages! Come and enjoy opportunities to see a variety of farm animals up close and experience diverse birds and plants, all in a natural, outdoor setting. The park also features a playground, pavilion and walking trails to explore. This event is open to the whole family!
AGES
DATE/TIME All ages August 23 9:30am - 11:30pm
LOCATION Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm 650 Read Road St. Catharines, ON L2R 7K6 register
Zap Zone
Join us for an action-packed afternoon at Zap Zone laser tag. This event is perfect for youth age 12+ years who love friendly competition and strategic play. Suit up, grab a laser, and see if you can outlast your friends in this exciting laser tag battle. Youth must be safe in a community location with a ratio of 4 teens per staff.
AGES
DATE/TIME 12+ years August 23 1:00pm - 3:00pm
LOCATION Zap Zone
4605 Victoria Avenue Niagara Falls, ON L2E 4B5
register
Create a Membership
Membership needs to be confirmed before you can begin registering for events.
Create your membership here
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 the 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
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