Issuu

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.

Bethesda Children and Youth Services | Virtual Workshops | Ontario Autism Program (OAP)

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 905.684.6918 ext. 170

Step 1

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

Step 2

*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.

bethesdaservices.com/en/youth/home | 905.684.6918 |

serviceinfo@bethesdaservices.com

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 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

Bethesda Children and Youth Services | Virtual Workshops | Ontario Autism Program (OAP)

Bethesda YouTube Channel

Explore our updated videos to learn more about our mission, our purpose and our commitment to helping people thrive at every stage of life. Visit our YouTube channel and don’t forget to subscribe once you’re there!

Subscribe, Like, and Share / @bethesda.services

Connect with Bethesda Online!

Check out our social media channels for helpful tips, to stay up to date on upcoming events, and view pictures of our Bethesda community in action!

facebook.com/bethesda.niagara

instagram.com/bethesda.services

linkedin.com/company/bethesdaservices

Workshops and Caregiver Learning Series Understanding the Ontario Autism Program 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

LOCATION

Virtual, phone, or in-person appointments available.

Caregiver Development 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.

Emotional Regulation: How to Lend Your Calm Caregivers will learn practical strategies on how to be an emotional support for their child, and teach them calming strategies. DATE/TIME

Wednesday May 20 6:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

All Things Core Clinical Services This virtual information session will provide an overview of core clinical services and the supports they offer, the determination of needs process, and information on how to sign your Funding Agreement. This session is designed for families who have recently been invited or are new to core clinical services. DATE/TIME

Monday May 25 6:30pm - 7:15pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Surviving the Summer This workshop will focus on providing practical strategies to help parents and caregivers survive the summer! Summer can be a challenging time for a lot of kids. This workshop will provide parents, and caregivers practical strategies to make the transition to summer easier. Parents will also be provided an activity guide with 100 free or low cost ideas to keep kids of all ages entertained away from screens. DATE/TIME

Wednesday May 27 6:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Transition to Adulthood Workshop Series A four-part, weekly workshop series designed to support parents, caregivers, and youth as they prepare for life beyond childhood! Each workshop will provide practical tools, expert guidance, and insights into the services and supports available during this important transition. Our goal is to help families plan with confidence. Take the next step toward a successful transition to adulthood! DATE/TIME

Tuesdays June 2- June 23 6:00pm - 8:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

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 June 10 6:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

bethesdaservices.com/en/youth/home | 905.684.6918 |

serviceinfo@bethesdaservices.com

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 June 17 6:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Toilet Training 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 aged 7 and younger. DATE/TIME

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

LOCATION

Virtual

From Differences to Strengths: Supporting Your Youth’s Unique Identity This workshop helps caregivers reframe how they view and support their neurodivergent youth. Rooted in a strengths-based, affirming approach, From Differences to Strengths explores how understanding neurodiversity and identity through a positive lens can build confidence and strengthen family connection. Participants will learn practical strategies to promote resilience, acceptance, and self-expression, while discovering ways to celebrate their youth’s unique strengths and support their evolving identity, including LGBTQ+ identities. The session also addresses common caregiver challenges with compassion and perspective. DATE/TIME

Wednesday July 8 12:00pm - 1:00pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Understanding OCD Does your child struggle with intrusive thoughts or repetitive behaviours? This psychoeducational 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 July 20 6:00pm - 7:00pm

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

Tuesday August 18 12:00pm - 1:00pm

LOCATION

Virtual

Improving Sleep Does your child struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep through the night? Join our virtual workshop to learn proven strategies to help your child achieve a restful night’s sleep. We’ll cover techniques for establishing a calming bedtime routine, addressing common sleep challenges, and promoting healthy sleep habits. DATE/TIME

Wednesday August 19 6:30pm - 7:30pm

LOCATION

Virtual

bethesdaservices.com/en/youth/home | 905.684.6918 |

serviceinfo@bethesdaservices.com