FREE open-registration workshops, groups and activities for our community of children, youth & their families.
Helping children and youth be their best
Your connection to the Centre extends beyond your child’s visits with their therapists. We offer a full catalogue of FREE events for children, youth, and their families to receive information, education, support as well as opportunities to connect with others with shared experiences.
We also offer opportunities for children and youth to engage in inclusive, accessible recreation activities and skill development in group settings.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Let’s get you the information you need!
WHO CAN SIGN UP FOR OUR EVENTS?
All of the events within this guide are open to all children and youth who are past or current clients (18 years & under) with a physical, developmental, and/or communicative delay or disability as well as their parents/caregivers.
CAN I ATTEND IF I’M NOT A CURRENT/PAST CLIENT?
Yes, as long as your child has a physical, developmental, and/or communicative delay or disability. Please contact our Intake Coordinators to join our community: 905-688-1890 ext. 110. We will collect a bit of info from you to enable you to register for events, including medical information regarding your child to ensure a safe experience during our events.
HOW DO I REGISTER IF I’M A CURRENT/PAST CLIENT?
Visit our website or call our Receptionist at least 24 hours in advance.
Reception
Tel: 905-688-3550 ext. 0
JOIN US FOR P.D. DAY PARTIES!
LANDMARK CINEMAS: MINECRAFT
Niagara Children’s Centre takes over Landmark Cinemas at the Pen Centre! Join us for a private viewing of Minecraft with fellow Centre families.
A mysterious portal pulls four misfits into the Overworld, a bizarre, cubic wonderland that thrives on imagination. To get back home, they’ll have to master the terrain while embarking on a magical quest with an unexpected crafter named Steve.
Note: Niagara Children’s Centre will cover the cost of ticket admissions for your child involved with the Centre and any household members who wish to join. Families will be responsible for their own concession purchases if you choose to do so, at a group rate which will be shared with registered families prior to the outing. Parents and Caregivers must stay on site to supervise their children.
DATE:
TIME:
LOCATION: Friday, April 4
10 a.m. to noon Landmark Cinemas Pen Centre, St. Catharines
ST.CATHARINES PUBLIC LIBRARY
Join our Recreation Therapist for a fun-filled morning of discovery at the St. Catharines Public Library! Explore the wide range of activities, equipment, and resources available for borrowing with a library card. Whether you’re getting your first library card, revisiting an old favourite spot, or exploring something new, this is the perfect opportunity to make the most of your PD Day. Come learn, play, and explore—see you there!
DATE: TIME: LOCATION: Friday, June 6 10 to 11:30 a.m. 425 Carlton St, St. Catharines
LEARN MORE & REGISTER ONLINE
Visit our website or call Reception at least 24-hours in advance.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN!
ACCESSIBLE EGG HUNT
Join us for a fun-filled outdoor egg hunt designed for children of all abilities! This unique event offers a sensory-friendly experience with designated time slots to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable environment.
Instead of a race, children will take part in an exciting scavenger hunt, searching for six eggs at their own pace. Once all six are collected, they can exchange them for a special prize!
Register for your preferred timeslot and celebrate the season with this inclusive and engaging adventure made for every child to enjoy.
DATE: TIMESLOTS: LOCATION:
Saturday, April 12 9 a.m. Niagara Children’s Centre 10 a.m. 11 a.m. 12 p.m.
FARM-A-PALOOZA
Hosted by the Young Caregivers Association
At this event, sibling groups of two experience four accessible stations including working with horses, spending time with different farm animals and more with the support of Centre staff and volunteers. As the children experience the program, parents are welcome to stay for a Coffee and Chat and then join their children for the last half hour.
Please note that one-on-one support is not guaranteed for this activity and registration is for one Centre client and one sibling.
DATE: TIME: LOCATION: Saturday, May 31 1 to 3:30 p.m.
Windy Acres Stable 3908 Neff Rd, Stevensville
JOIN US IN THE ZOOM ZONE!
A virtual program that promotes connection and socialization with peers over a common interest. Join us from the comfort of your own home, with different themes each week. Youth will be led through social activities, with videos and conversation.
UPCOMING THEMES:
ULTIMATE CHEF
DATES:
Calling all lovers of food, cooking April 8, May 6 & June 3 or baking, join us for a social hour 4 to 5 p.m. featuring Is It Cake?
SPORTS CRITIC
DATES:
Calling all sports lovers and those April 15, May 13 & June 10 wanting to share their opinions 4 to 5 p.m. about recent sporting events.
SCIENCE FRENZY
DATES:
Calling all science lovers, wanting April 22, May 20 & June 17 to learn more and share their 4 to 5 p.m. knowledge, featuring Bill Nye saves the world.
HISTORY BUFFS
DATES:
Calling all fact lovers who may be April 29, May 27 & June 24 experts on certain subjects, join us 4 to 5 p.m. to learn about historical figures in an engaging way featuring The Who Was? Show
Please note: A Zoom link will be sent the morning of the program to the email used for registration. See you on screen!
JOIN A CLUB
PATCHES CLUB
Children will build new skills and earn patches through fun, themed activities! This monthly program includes a one-hour session where children complete activities related to the theme, followed by optional home activities to earn their patch. We can’t wait to see their collections grow!
Please note: Recommended age is 6-12 but feel free to reach out if you think this is a good fit for your child. Participants must require minimal to moderate support and manage their own care independently (including toileting) or have a support person available when needed.
DATES: TIME: LOCATION:
Saturday, April 5 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Niagara Centre YMCA, Saturday, May 3 Welland Saturday, June 7
ROBOTICS CLUB
Whether your child is new to LEGO robotics or experienced, this club offers something for everyone! In each session, we will build and code a robot, with additional challenges if time permits. This inclusive club allows children to participate in ways that suit them best—whether by directing steps and selecting pieces or through individualized support and adaptations. The focus is on fun, creativity, and problem-solving!
Please note: Recommended age is 6 and up. Participants must manage their own care, or a parent/caregiver must remain on-site for support (including toileting). If you have concerns about potential damage to equipment (e.g., iPads, robots) or your child’s ability to work with partners, please contact our Recreation Therapist at rec@niagarachildrenscentre.com.
DATES: TIME: LOCATION:
Saturday, April 5 11 a.m. to noon Niagara Centre YMCA, Saturday, May 3 Welland Saturday, June 7
Challenger Baseball
When you belong, you believe
SCAN THE QR CODE TO REGISTER
Monday’s at Lancaster Park, St. Catharines
May 26 to July 28
Ages 3-8: 4:45-5:45 p.m.
Ages 9+: 5:45-6:45 p.m.
JUST FOR FOR TWEENS
HANGOUT HUB
Children are invited to come engage and hang out in a social environment with like-minded peers through a program focused on cooperative play, conflict resolution, and positive social interactions. We will enjoy a variety of fun activities, games and play (i.e. movement, table games, crafts, etc.).
Please note: Recommended age is 8-13 but if you think this sounds like a good fit for your child, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Participants must require minimal-moderate support and be able to manage their own care independently (including toileting) or their own support person/parent or caregiver must be available to support when needed.
DATES: TIME: LOCATION:
Tuesday, April 8 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, May 6
Tuesday, June 3
PREPARED PALS
Niagara Children’s Centre
St. Catharines location
Children are invited to engage in activities designed to grow “real world” life skills (e.g. baking, introduction to money management, positive social interactions).
Please note: Recommended age is 8-13 but if you think this sounds like a good fit for your child, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Participants must require minimal-moderate support and be able to manage their own care independently (including toileting) or their own support person/parent or caregiver must be available to support when needed.
DATES: TIME: LOCATION:
Tuesday, April 22 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, May 20
Tuesday, June 17
Niagara Children’s Centre
St. Catharines location
JOIN OUR YOUTH GROUPS
CONNECT CREW
Youth are invited to come hang out and socialize with peers while participating in a variety of activities, including but not limited to, board games, video games, baking and listening to music, all while fostering friendships and navigating social interactions.
Please note: Recommended age is 14-18 but if you think this sounds like a good fit for your child, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Participants must require minimal support and be able to manage their own care independently (including toileting) or their own support person/ parent or caregiver must be available to support when needed.
DATES:
TIME:
Tuesday, April 15 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, May 13
Tuesday, June 10
SKILL SETTERS
LOCATION:
Niagara Children’s Centre
St. Catharines location
Youth are invited to join Skill Setters, which is aimed at fostering independence and growing life skills through opportunities to engage in activities such as baking/cooking, food preparation, money management, peer relationships and time management in a positive social environment.
Please note: Recommended age is 14-18 but if you think this sounds like a good fit for your child, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Participants must require minimal support and be able to manage their own care independently (including toileting) or their own support person/ parent or caregiver must be available to support when needed.
DATES:
TIME: LOCATION:
Tuesday, April 29 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, May 27
Tuesday, June 24
Niagara Children’s Centre
St. Catharines location
EDUCATION
Discover personal stories from Centre families serving as community ambassadors.
AWARENESS
Catch us on local radio and in newspapers raising awareness for the Children’s Centre.
FUNDRAISING
Our biggest fundraiser of the year supporting vital programs and services at the Centre.
MORE RECREATION ACTIVITIES
BIKE SOCIAL
Come pedal with us at our Bike Social, where riders of all skill levels can enjoy cycling in a safe and relaxed environment. Whether you’re new to biking or have plenty of experience, this is a great opportunity to ride at your own pace while connecting with others. Families and siblings are welcome, as long as all participants respect fellow riders.
Please bring your bike and helmet, and enjoy the great outdoors with us. We look forward to riding together!
DATES:
TIMES:
Wednesdays 5 to 5:45 p.m.
April 9 to June 25
Please note:
• Weather permitting (rain, heat, etc.).
LOCATION:
Niagara Children’s Centre
St. Catharines location
• Must bring your bike and helmet unless previously arranged with our Recreation Therapist
EVERYBODY CAN BOOGIE: CAREGIVER & ME
Niagara Children’s Centre has partnered with Everybody Needs to Boogie to offer 45-minute inclusive dance sessions over seven weeks. Caregiver & Me has specifically designed classes to help develop your child’s gross motor skills, co-ordination, balance, strength, musicality and more! With props like the parachute, puppets, shaky eggs, scarves and bubbles to keep your mini boogier entertained, you’ll be sure to have a boogietastic time! This class is slow to moderate paced and is suitable for dancers of all abilities.
This session is designed for any child who has not yet started school and their parent or caregiver. Siblings are welcome!
DATES:
TIME: LOCATION:
Monday’s 10 to 10:45 a.m.
Niagara Children’s Centre May 5 to June 23
St. Catharines location
Hosted
PARENT TALK
by a Centre Social Worker & Peer Support Parent
CHILDCARE AVAILABLE DURING PARENT TALK
Connection builds community. One way we can stay connected is with a monthly meeting to check in and allow you to connect with other parents and caregivers. Parent Talk is based on topics and allows for an informal time to discuss anything on your heart and mind with other parents/caregivers.
A limited number of childcare spots will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please advise when registering if childcare is required.
PARENT TALK: MINUTE TO WIN IT
Speed, skill and counting down the seconds! Join us for a fun night taking part in a series of 60-second challenges, testing caregiver vs caregiver, to see who can come out on top. Whether you are there for the ultimate competition, a good laugh, socializing with fellow caregivers or the snacks, we hope to see you there.
DATE: LOCATION:
Tuesday, April 15 | 6:30 to 8 p.m. Niagara Children’s Centre St. Catharines location
PARENT TALK: PRE-TEENS & TEENS
The pre-teen and teen years are an exciting time of personal growth, new discoveries and opportunities. However, it can also be a time where caregivers may have mixed emotions as it is a new chapter with many physical, emotional and social changes. As caregivers in our teen’s life, we play an important part in navigating this new normal. Join us as we have a conversation about all things pre-teen and teen.
DATE LOCATION:
Tuesday, May 20 | 6:30 to 8 p.m. Join virtually or in-person at our St. Catharines location
PARENT TALK: END OF THE YEAR BOCCE TOURNAMENT
Join us for a evening filled with fun and laughter as we gather to play bocce ball. Meet us at the entrance of the Children’s Centre and don’t forget to bring along your favourite snack to share. Beverages will be provided.
DATE: LOCATION:
Tuesday, June 17 | 6:30 to 8 p.m. Niagara Children’s Centre St. Catharines location
PARENT & CAREGIVER SUPPORT
All events hosted by a Niagara Children’s Centre Social Worker
SELF-CARE WALK & TALK REGISTER IN ADVANCE!
Our group will provide you with the mental, emotional and physical benefits of walking plus the social opportunity to make connections with other Centre Parents and Caregivers. Meet us at the Children’s Centre for a gentle 30-minute walk. We will meet together at the accessible Glenridge Quarry Naturalization Site. Strollers and wheelchairs are welcome. After our walk, join us inside for a warm beverage and visit together.
DATES:
TIME:
Wednesdays 10 to 11:30 a.m.
LOCATIONS:
Niagara Children’s Centre April 2 to June 25 St. Catharines location
PARENT & CAREGIVER EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS
All events hosted by a Niagara Children’s Centre Social Worker
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
Do you have questions about what services and supports are specific to your child’s and family’s needs? Drop into this group to learn more about what Niagara has to offer! We will overview services offered at the Niagara Children’s Centre, along with local health care services, recreation, developmental services, family services, etc.
DATES:
TIMES:
LOCATION:
Wednesday, April 2 1 to 3 p.m. Join virtually or in-person at Wednesday, May 21 10 a.m. to noon our St. Catharines location. Monday, June 23 1 to 3 p.m.
QUESTIONS OR READY TO
REGISTER?
PARENT & CAREGIVER EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS
All events hosted by a Niagara Children’s Centre Social Worker “MONEY
MATTERS” FUNDING OPTIONS
This workshop provides an overview of financial resources that you may be eligible for as a parent or caregiver for a child with disabilities. Applications such as Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities (ACSD), Special Services At Home (SSAH), Disability Tax Credit (DTC), Easter Seals Incontinence Grant (ES-IG) and more will be discussed. This workshop provides an overview of what may be available to eligible families and is not dedicated to completing the applications.
DATES:
TIMES:
LOCATION:
Tuesday, April 8 7 to 8 p.m. Virtual only Friday, May 9 10 to 11 a.m.
Join virtually or in-person at Monday, June 9 2 to 3 p.m. our St. Catharines location
PAPERWORK PARTY!
Putting off paperwork related to your child’s disability? Please join us for a paperwork party! These informal gatherings are designed to offer a comfortable space, a defined time, and the knowledge and support of other Centre parents and caregivers. You are welcome to bring any kind of paperwork, including funding, referrals, program registrations, education, and more. A Centre Social Worker can assist with funding applications. Coffee, tea, and technology will be available. So let’s get it done together!
DATES:
TIMES:
Wednesday, April 23 10 a.m. to noon Tuesday, May 13 1 to 3 p.m.
Thursday, June 19 10 a.m. to noon
LOCATION:
Join virtually or in-person at our St. Catharines location
A DISCUSSION ABOUT THE HIDDEN CHALLENGES OF A CAREGIVER
Join us for the 6th Annual Parent & Caregiver Conference, an empowering event designed to support and uplift parents and caregivers of children with physical, developmental, and communicative delays or disabilities. This year’s conference will feature engaging discussions, and shared experiences to help caregivers navigate their unique journeys with confidence and community.
Enjoy a morning filled with meaningful conversations, complimentary refreshments, and a light lunch as you connect with others who understand the challenges and triumphs of caregiving.
DATES: TIME: LOCATION: Saturday, May 3 9 a.m. to noon Four Points by Sheraton, St. Catharines
Registration is required. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn and build connections through conversation. Watch for details in your inbox!
CHILDCARE AVAILABLE DURING THE CONFERENCE
A limited number of childcare spots will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Care will take place at Niagara Children’s Centre.
FAMILY MENTOR PROGRAM
Receive guidance and support from your peers
Would you benefit from speaking with a parent who shares similar experiences caring for a child with special needs?
Let us connect you to another Centre parent that ‘gets it’!
WHY SHOULD YOU ENROLL?
CONNECTION
Chat with a peer that understands.
CONVENIENCE
Connect from home, on your schedule.
COMMUNITY
Learn more about Centre programs, services and events.
To learn that there’s another parent out there that has gone through everything you are going through right now, and understands your feelings – it means a lot,”
Dyane, Centre Parent
INTERESTED IN ENROLLING?
VOLT HOCKEY
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