Bethesda Children and Youth Services | FREE Virtual Workshops
FREE Virtual Workshops
For ANY family in Ontario registered with the Ontario Autism Program (OAP)
Children and Youth Services
Bethesda Children and Youth Services is thrilled to provide a series of FREE virtual workshops designed to empower and support Ontario families with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to live their best lives.
These comprehensive programs cover a wide range of topics tailored to the specific needs of parents, caregivers, and youth.
Parent and Caregiver Workshops equip caregivers with essential tools and strategies to navigate the challenges and joys of raising a child with autism. From understanding the complexities of ASD to managing challenging behaviours, these workshops offer practical guidance and support.
Introduction to Teaching Series provide caregivers with valuable insights into effective teaching techniques and strategies to foster their child’s growth and development. These workshops will cover topics such as creating inclusive learning environments, developing essential life skills, and promoting independence.
Workshops for Youth Ages 12+ focus on building resilience, self-advocacy, and social skills. These sessions will create a supportive space for young people to connect with peers, learn valuable life skills, and develop a strong sense of self.
How do I get started with Bethesda’s Free Foundational Family Services?
If you have any questions about the below steps please reach out to a service coordinator: serviceinfo@bethesdaservices.com
289.686.4157 ext. 170
Step 1
Step 2
Are you registered with the Ontario Autism Program (OAP) or Bethesda Children’s Behaviour Services?
Create your account through Bethesda’s membership portal. See page 4
*Your account will be approved within three (3) business days.
If you already have an account, log in.
Step 3
Step 4
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.
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.
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 change 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
facebook.com/bethesda.niagara
instagram.com/bethesda.niagara
linkedin.com/company/bethesdaservices
Workshops and Caregiver Learning Series
Clarifying Autism Services 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.
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
Caregiver Workshops Understanding the Ontario Autism Program
LOCATION Virtual, phone, or in-person appointments available.
Contact us to register
Bethesda Children and Youth Services is committed to empowering parents and caregivers with knowledge and strategies to support your child’s overall well-being.
Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Do you want to learn more about ASD?
This interactive workshop equips parents and caregivers with the knowledge and resources to navigate an ASD diagnosis.
DATE/TIME Wednesday September 11 6:30pm - 7:30pm
LOCATION Virtual register
Understanding Grief
Guiding children through 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. This workshop is facilitated by a Social Worker.
Plus! After attending the workshop, you will be provided with additional resources on where to find support for grief.
DATE/TIME Monday September 16 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Picky Eating
Does mealtime feel like a battleground?
This interactive workshop equips parents, caregivers, and clinicians with practical strategies to address picky eating in children.
We’ll explore a variety of positive approaches, including:
• Step-by-step guidance for introducing new foods and expanding their repertoire.
• Effective communication techniques to encourage positive mealtime interactions.
• Creative solutions for overcoming common feeding challenges.
DATE/TIME Wednesday September 25 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Planning Ahead: Proactive Strategies for Successful Experiences
Turn everyday outings – from doctor’s appointments to grocery shopping – into positive experiences for you and your child.
This interactive workshop equips caregivers with proactive strategies to:
• Anticipate and address challenges during community outings.
• Develop personalized plans for a smoother experience.
• Boost your child’s confidence in new environments
Plus! Receive two individualized consultations to discuss implementing these strategies at home.
DATE/TIME Wednesday October 2
6:30pm - 7:30pm
Identifying and Coping with Autistic Burnout
Is your child/youth experiencing depression, or could it be “autistic burnout”?
Join us to learn about the signs and symptoms of a concept that has been gaining attention in recent years, “autistic burnout”. We will discuss how you can support your child through certain lifestyle changes to improve their psychological well-being. Discover how to:
• Recognize the signs of autistic burnout in your child or youth.
• Develop supportive strategies to improve their well-being.
• Implement lifestyle changes that promote balance and resilience
DATE/TIME Monday October 7
6:30pm - 7:30pm
Proactive Strategies for Managing Misbehaviour
Does challenging behaviour disrupt your family harmony?
This workshop equips parents with positive, proactive strategies to prevent and manage misbehaviour in children and teens. Join us to explore:
• Understanding the root causes of misbehaviour.
• Effective communication techniques to foster cooperation.
• Positive reinforcement strategies to encourage desired behaviour.
• Proactive techniques to de-escalate situations and prevent outbursts
DATE/TIME Wednesday October 9 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Sexuality and Relationships
Promote healthy social interactions and friendships.
As your teen grows, you may have questions about how to support their development of healthy relationships and sexuality. This informative workshop equips parents and caregivers with the knowledge and tools to:
• Foster open communication about relationships, consent, and boundaries.
• Understand sexual development for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
• Develop strategies to address your teen’s unique needs
DATE/TIME Wednesday October 23 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Internet Safety
Raising Tech-Savvy Teens: A Guide to Online Safety.
The online world is a powerful tool, but it’s important for teens to navigate it safely. This interactive workshop equips parents and caregivers with the knowledge and strategies to:
• Foster responsible digital habits in your teen.
• Empower them to identify and avoid online risks like cyberbullying and inappropriate content.
• Establish clear boundaries for social media use.
• Promote positive online interactions and digital citizenship.
DATE/TIME Wednesday November 6
6:30pm - 7:30pm LOCATION Virtual register
Puberty
Empowering Conversations: A Guide to Puberty for Parents.
Puberty is a journey of exciting changes! This informative workshop equips parents and caregivers with the knowledge and confidence to guide their children (ages 8-15) through this important stage.
Join us to explore:
• Open communication strategies to discuss physical and emotional changes.
• Setting positive hygiene routines that promote self-care and confidence.
• Practical tips for addressing common concerns and questions.
• Resources to support you and your child on this journey.
DATE/TIME Wednesday November 13 6:30pm - 7:30pm LOCATION Virtual
Desensitization: How to Make Difficult Events Easier
Does your child struggle with new experiences like haircuts or loud noises?
This workshop introduces desensitization, a powerful tool used to help children gradually feel more comfortable in challenging situations.
Join us to learn:
• What desensitization is and how it can benefit your child.
• Practical strategies to break down overwhelming experiences into smaller, manageable steps.
• Tips for creating positive associations with previously difficult situations.
• How to celebrate your child’s progress and build confidence.
Kids feel stress too! This interactive workshop equips caregivers with practical strategies to:
• Recognize the signs of stress in your child.
• Promote emotional resilience to navigate challenging situations.
• Develop calming tools that work for everyone in the family.
Learn valuable techniques to help your child:
• Express their emotions in healthy ways.
• Develop coping mechanisms for everyday stress.
• Build emotional intelligence for a calmer, happier home.
DATE/TIME Wednesday November 27 6:30pm - 7:30pm LOCATION Virtual
“Bethesda is an amazing place for our sons to socialize and have a great time.”
-Bethesda Parent
Triple P
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 21- December 16 6:00pm - 8:00pm
LOCATION Virtual register
“Bethesda has been a consistent source of support and information through my child’s youth. Their programs have been my primary gateway to resources, support and programs related to ASD.”
-Bethesda Parent
ACT - Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
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 • Friday, October 18
6:00pm - 9:00pm
• Saturday, October 19
9:00am - 4:00pm
• Friday, October 25
6:00pm - 9:00pm
LOCATION Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6
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 Tuesdays
November 5 - 26
9:30am - 11:30am
LOCATION Bethesda
Niagara Family Centre
3310 Schmon Parkway
Thorold, ON L2V 4Y6 register register
Caregiver Workshops Introduction to Teaching
Teaching Your Child Imitation Skills
Unlocking Learning: How to Teach Your Child Imitation Skills.
Is your child learning and growing through imitation? This interactive workshop, part of our Introduction to Teaching series, equips caregivers with strategies to:
• Spark your child’s interest in imitation through engaging activities.
• Develop foundational imitation skills that are crucial for learning and development.
• Turn everyday moments into learning opportunities for your child.
DATE/TIME Tuesday October 1
6:30pm - 7:30pm
Helping your Child Tolerate Change
Making Change a Breeze: Strategies for a Smooth Transition.
Is your child easily upset by changes in routine? This interactive workshop, part of our Introduction to Teaching series, equips caregivers with practical strategies to:
• Understand why changes can be challenging for your child.
• Develop a toolbox of techniques to make transitions smoother.
• Turn everyday routines into opportunities to build your child’s tolerance for change.
DATE/TIME Tuesday October 8
6:30pm - 7:30pm
Teaching Your Child Receptive Language
Unlock Your Child’s Listening Potential.
Does your child seem to miss instructions or struggle to follow conversations? This interactive workshop, part of our Introduction to Teaching series, equips caregivers with strategies to:
• Boost your child’s understanding of spoken language.
• Develop essential listening skills for communication and learning.
• Turn everyday interactions into opportunities to build receptive language.
DATE/TIME Tuesday October 15
6:30pm - 7:30pm
How to Effectively Use Visual Schedules
Using Visual Schedules for Success.
Keeping track of daily routines can be tricky! This interactive workshop, part of our Introduction to Teaching series, equips caregivers with the knowledge to create and implement visual schedules that:
• Boost your child’s independence and sense of predictability.
• Improve communication and understanding of daily routines.
• Reduce meltdowns and frustrations associated with transitions.
DATE/TIME Tuesday October 22
6:30pm - 7:30pm
Teaching Vocal Requesting
Strategies for Clear Communication.
LOCATION Virtual
Does your child struggle to express their wants and needs? This interactive workshop, part of our Introduction to Teaching series, equips caregivers with playful strategies to:
• Encourage clear communication through vocal requesting.
• Develop essential language skills for confident expression.
• Turn everyday moments into opportunities to build requesting skills.
DATE/TIME Tuesday October 29
6:30pm - 7:30pm
Helping your Child to Tolerate “No”
Teach your child to accept boundaries in a positive way.
Hearing “no” can be frustrating! This interactive workshop, part of our Introduction to Teaching series, equips caregivers with practical strategies to:
• Develop alternative communication methods to express needs and wants.
• Turn meltdowns into teachable moments for emotional regulation.
DATE/TIME Tuesday November 5
6:30pm - 7:30pm
The Power of Play
LOCATION Virtual
Discover the power of play in building essential early skills.
Play is more than just fun – it’s a powerful tool for learning and development! This interactive workshop, part of our Introduction to Teaching series, equips caregivers with playful strategies to:
• Nurture foundational skills like imitation, joint attention, turn-taking, and pretend play.
• Turn everyday moments into opportunities for growth and connection.
DATE/TIME Tuesday November 12
6:30pm - 7:30pm LOCATION Virtual
Communication with Visuals
Building Bridges: Communication Through Visuals.
Does your child struggle to express themselves verbally? This interactive workshop, part of our Introduction to Teaching series, equips caregivers with creative strategies to:
• Unlock alternative communication methods using visuals.
• Empower your child to express their wants and needs effectively.
• Strengthen communication skills for a more connected relationship.
Learn how to:
• Develop engaging visual tools for clear communication.
• Integrate visuals seamlessly into your daily routine.
• Support your child’s unique communication journey.
DATE/TIME Tuesday November 19
6:30pm - 7:30pm LOCATION Virtual
Youth Workshops Youth 12+ years
Strategies for Successful Homework
Feeling overwhelmed by homework?
This interactive workshop is packed with tips and tricks to help you conquer your assignments and ace your classes!
Learn how to:
• Discover effective planning methods to stay on top of deadlines.
• Get tips for tackling different types of assignments and projects.
• Learn techniques to improve information retention and understanding.
DATE/TIME Wednesday October 2 5:15pm - 6:15pm
Organizational Skills
Discover techniques to juggle schoolwork, extracurriculars, and a healthy social life.
Feeling stressed by schoolwork and other priorities? This interactive workshop equips you with powerful organization skills to take control of your schedule and boost your academic success!
Learn how to:
• Develop effective planning methods to prioritize tasks and deadlines.
• Tame the tech beast with strategies for managing files, folders, and online platforms.
• Design an environment that maximizes focus and minimizes distractions.
DATE/TIME Wednesday October 9 5:15pm - 6:15pm
Assertiveness
Develop effective communication skills for all your relationships.
Do you wish you could express yourself clearly and confidently? This interactive workshop equips you with the communication skills you need to be a successful and assertive teen!
Learn how to:
• Gain the confidence to stand up for yourself.
• Learn to express your needs and opinions clearly.
• Feel empowered to navigate tricky situations with ease.
DATE/TIME Wednesday October 16 5:15pm - 6:15pm
Social Night
Join us for a fun-filled virtual social night packed with games, trivia, and laughter!
• Mingle and chat with other teens in a safe and supportive online environment.
• Put your brainpower to the test with exciting trivia challenges.
• Game on!: Play a variety of interactive games.
DATE/TIME Wednesday October 23
5:15pm - 6:15pm
How to Handle Bullying
Discover effective strategies to respond to bullying and protect yourself. Being bullied is no fun. This interactive workshop equips you with the tools and strategies to stand up to bullies and create a positive social environment.
• Develop coping mechanisms to handle hurtful comments and embarrassing feedback.
• Learn how to choose positive friends who will uplift and empower you.
DATE/TIME Wednesday November 6 5:15pm - 6:15pm
Self-Advocacy
Communicate your needs, opinions, and feelings confidently in any situation. This interactive workshop equips you with the essential skills of self-advocacy – the power to speak up for yourself and make your decisions with confidence! Learn how to:
• Develop strong decision-making skills to make the best choices for yourself.
• Understand your rights and responsibilities and learn how to advocate for yourself and others.
• Develop effective strategies to overcome challenges and find solutions.
DATE/TIME Wednesday November 13 5:15pm - 6:15pm
Mindfulness
Discover simple mindfulness techniques to manage stress and anxiety. This interactive workshop introduces you to the amazing power of mindfulness – a skill that helps you stay calm, focused, and present in the moment. You will:
• Improve concentration and boost your ability to learn and achieve.
• Develop a greater awareness of your thoughts and emotions.
• Learn how mindfulness can improve your overall well-being.
DATE/TIME Wednesday November 20
5:15pm - 6:15pm
Personal Care-Being your Best Self
Explore healthy habits that will boost your energy and focus throughout the day. This interactive workshop dives into the world of personal care, giving you the tools to craft a morning routine that works for YOU. This workshop is best suited for high school-aged youth. Learn how to:
• Design a plan that sets you up for success, from sleep hygiene to healthy breakfast choices.
• Discover self-care practices that promote positive mental well-being.
• Build healthy habits that will empower you to achieve your goals!
DATE/TIME Wednesday November 27 5:15pm - 6:15pm
Social Night
Put your brainpower to the test with exciting trivia challenges. Join us for a fun-filled virtual social night packed with games, trivia, and laughter!
• Mingle and chat with other teens in a safe and supportive online environment.
