SEPT. TO DEC. 2025 WHAT’S INSIDE: FREE open-registration workshops, groups and activities for our community of children, youth & their families.
Trunk or Treat Halloween without limitations returns on Oct. 25!
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
P.D. DAY PARTIES!
HAPPY ROLPH’S: WALK, ROLL & EXPLORE
Join Centre families as we walk and roll around Happy Rolph’s! We can visit the animals, explore the duck pond, play on the accessible playground, and hang out in the park! Parent/Caregiver must stay on-site unless otherwise pre-arranged.
DATES: TIME: LOCATION:
Friday, Sept. 19 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm 650 Read Rd, St. Catharines
APPLE PICKING
Join Centre families and staff in picking your own apples off miniature apple trees at Silmaril Farms. Enjoy fresh apples or bake your favourite apple treat! This farm creates a wheelchair and stroller-friendly experience.
Please note: Families are responsible for covering the cost of their own apples. Approximate cost based on 2024: 10lbs of apples for $10 and 20lbs for $15. Parent/Caregiver must stay on-site unless otherwise pre-arranged.
DATES: TIME: LOCATION: Friday, Oct. 10 10 a.m.
Silmaril Farms 144 Russ Rd, Grismby
BOWLING
Strike up some fun this PD Day with a morning of bowling at Parkway Social! Connect with other Centre families, cheer each other on, and enjoy an activity that’s fun and accessible for everyone.
Please note: Niagara Children’s Centre covers lane and shoe rentals. Families are responsible for food or drinks. A parent/caregiver must stay on-site unless pre-arranged.
DATES: TIME: LOCATION: Friday, Nov. 28 10:30 a.m. to noon
Parkway Social 327 Ontario St, St. Catharines
RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES
EVERYBODY CAN BOOGIE: CAREGIVER AND ME
Join these inclusive dance sessions that build motor skills, coordination, and musicality using fun props like parachutes, puppets, and bubbles. Suitable for children needing caregiver support or working toward independence. Attend as many sessions as you like!
DATES: TIME: LOCATION:
Sept. 10 | Oct. 8 10:15 to 11 a.m. Niagara Children’s Centre Nov. 12 | Dec. 10 St. Catharines location
ROBOTICS CLUB
Whether new to LEGO robotics or experienced, kids will enjoy building and coding a robot each session. This inclusive club encourages participation in any way—directing, selecting pieces, or building with support. The focus is on fun, creativity, and problem-solving!
Please note: Recommended for ages 6+. Participants must manage their own care, or have a parent/caregiver on-site. Unsure if it’s a good fit (e.g., participation needs, equipment concerns)? Contact rec@niagarachildrenscentre.com to discuss options.
DATES: TIME: LOCATION:
Saturday, Sept. 27 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Niagara Centre YMCA Saturday, Nov. 29 310 Woodlawn Rd, Welland
MOVIE MADNESS
Kick off winter break with a cozy viewing of two winter favourites! Join Centre families in your PJs or comfiest outfit for a relaxing December day.
Please note: Bring peanut-free snacks and drinks for your family, plus pillows, blankets, or stuffies for extra comfort. A parent/caregiver must stay on-site unless pre-arranged.
DATES: TIME: LOCATION:
Monday, Dec. 22 10 a.m. (Frozen) Niagara Children’s Centre 1 p.m. (Polar Express) St. Catharines location
JUST 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: The recommended age range 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 not require 1-1 support for behavioural needs. Participants who need help with toileting must have a caregiver on-site as needed.
DATES: TIME: LOCATION:
Thursday, Oct. 2 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Niagara Children’s Centre
Thursday, Nov. 6 St. Catharines location
Thursday, Dec. 4
PREPARED PALS
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: The recommended age range 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 not require 1-1 support for behavioural needs. Participants who need help with toileting must have a caregiver on-site as needed.
DATES: TIME: LOCATION:
Thursday, Oct. 16 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Niagara Children’s Centre
Thursday, Nov. 20 St. Catharines location
Thursday, Dec. 18
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 environments!
Please note: The recommended age range 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 not require 1-1 support for behavioural needs. Participants who need help with toileting must have a caregiver on-site as needed.
DATES: TIME: LOCATION:
Thursday, Oct. 9 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Niagara Children’s Centre
Thursday, Nov. 13 St. Catharines location
Thursday, Dec. 11
LEARN MORE & REGISTER ONLINE
Visit our website or call Reception at least 24-hours in advance.
SERVICE SQUAD New & improved!
The squad where youth have the opportunity to learn about volunteering skills and get hands-on experience in volunteering roles! Our team will be on the lookout for programs and events within the Centre and community that are a good fit with participants. Staff will organize practice sessions (as needed) and support the participants at the program/event.
Please note: The recommended age range is 14-18, but if you think this sounds like a good fit for your child, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Email rec@niagarachildrenscentre.com to express your interest and ask questions. Our staff will contact you to make sure the program is a good fit and to discuss what supports we can offer to ensure success.
Saturday, Oct. 4
Brock University
1K | 2.5K | 5K RUN, WALK or ROLL
Support the Centre!
$30 Adults
$25 Children (Under 18)
FREE Infants (Under 2)
FREE registration(s) for fundraising $500+
Register today!
VOLT HOCKEY
TRY VOLT HOCKEY
Niagara Children’s Centre has partnered with Variety Village to offer VOLT Hockey, an inclusive and adaptive form of hockey, specifically designed for individuals of varied abilities. This unique sport is played in specially designed chairs, providing an accessible platform for children who may not have had the chance to engage in team sports before. If this sounds like something you or your child is interested in trying, reach out to rec@niagarachilddrenscentre.com to set up a try-it session!
Please note: All participants must have the ability to understand basic rules of sport and follow instructions to ensure the safety of all participants.
CHEER US ON AT OUR VOLT HOCKEY TOURNAMENT
Join the excitement as the Niagara Stingrays host their first-ever VOLT Tournament! Niagara Children’s Centre families are invited to be part of this milestone event—discover the fast-paced game of VOLT Hockey, cheer on our incredible Centre athletes, and celebrate their skills and determination. Stay tuned for the full schedule and event details coming soon!
DATES:
LOCATION:
Saturday, Nov. 8 Canada Games Park
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS?
Email rec@niagarachildrenscentre.com or phone at ext. 127
The Centre has its own indoor, accessible, heated, saltwater pool!
To indicate interest in family swims, contact by email: rec@niagarachildrenscentre.com. Ask your therapist about use of the pool as part of individual or group therapy sessions.
SCAN TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR POOL PROGRAM:
Our website has information about pool policies such as supervision requirements and accessibility. If your child/ youth requires the mechanical lift, please let us know in advance.
Just for fathers and male-identifying caregivers*
Join us at the driving range for a laid-back evening of big swings and great company! No clubs? No problem! We’ll have rentals available and patio tables ready for anyone who just wants to kick back and socialize.
*To participate, you must be a father or male-identifying caregiver of a child who are past or current clients (18 years & under) of Niagara Children’s Centre with a physical, developmental, and/or communicative delay or disability.
PARENT TALK
All events hosted by a Niagara Children’s Centre Social Worker & Peer Support Parent
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.
CHILDCARE AVAILABLE DURING PARENT TALK
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: WELCOME BACK SOCIAL
Bring a chair, play some lawn games, or just sit and relax as you get to know other families from the Centre.
DATE:
Tuesday, Sept. 16 | 6:30 to 8 p.m.
LOCATION:
Niagara Children’s Centre
St. Catharines location
PARENT TALK: YOUR CAREGIVING JOURNEY AS A RESUME
Inspired by caregiver and author Donna Thomson, this session invites parents to reflect on who they are beyond caregiving. Together, we’ll explore a simple, empowering tool to recognize the skills, strengths, and passions we’ve gained through caring for our children with disabilities and how these shape our identity and future.
DATE LOCATION:
Tuesday, Oct. 21 | 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Niagara Children’s Centre
St. Catharines location
PARENT TALK: EVERYBODY CAN BOOGIE
We’ve partnered with Everybody Needs to Boogie to offer a fun session for caregivers with the theme of “Dancing through the Decades.” Expect 45 minutes of low cardio and fun suitable for everyone.
DATE: LOCATION:
Tuesday, Nov. 18 | 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Niagara Children’s Centre
St. Catharines location
QUESTIONS OR READY TO REGISTER?
PARENT & CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS
All events hosted by a Niagara Children’s Centre Social Worker
SPICES OF SELF-CARE
Enjoy a morning of self-care to connect with other parents/caregivers over treats and coffee/tea. We will learn about six basic self-care needs called SPICES: Social, Physical, Intellectual, Creative, Emotional and Spiritual. Each of these areas is key to your resiliency and adapting to unexpected challenges. We will create a self-care kit and explore what self-care means for each of you.
DATES: TIME: LOCATION:
Monday, Oct. 6 9:30 to 11:00 a.m.
Niagara Children’s Centre
St. Catharines location
SELF-CARE WALK & TALK
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 main reception for a gentle 30-minute walk at the Glenridge Quarry Naturalization Site or the Brock Campus. Strollers and wheelchairs are welcome. After our walk, join us inside for coffee and a visit.
DATES: TIME: LOCATIONS:
Tuesdays 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Niagara Children’s Centre Sept. 9 to Dec. 16
St. Catharines location
PARENT & CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS
All events hosted by a Niagara Children’s Centre Social Worker
COFFEE, CHAT & COMMUNITY
Looking for a warm, welcoming experience to connect with other parents and caregivers? Join us each month for Coffee, Chat & Community – a relaxed meet-up for parents/caregivers featuring a light walk, great coffee, and meaningful conversations in an inclusive, family-friendly environment. Parents/caregivers may attend with or without children.
DATE:
Thursday, Sept. 25 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Thursday, Oct. 23 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Thursday, Nov. 27 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Please note:
LOCATION: Rice Road Greenhouses
Watering Can Stevensville Garden Gallery
• Registration requires 24-hours notice
ADDRESS: 1361 Rice Rd, Welland, ON
3725 King St, Vineland, ON.
• Note the when coffee will not be provided by Centre staff
2821 Stevensville Rd, Stevensville, ON $ $ $ $
• Parents/caregivers may attend with or without children
RUN, SWEAT & CONNECT WITH CORNERS RUN CREW
Calling all parents and caregivers! Join us with Corners Run Crew — A fun and supportive group where the motto is Moderate Pace – Positive Space. No pressure, no pace goals – it’s about showing up. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking to move and mingle, all are welcome. Each run starts and ends at a local café. Come for the movement, stay for a latte. Come as you are and leave recharged. A Centre staff member will attend each run to welcome you and participate alongside you.
Check our online calendar for additional fall dates as they’re scheduled.
QUESTIONS OR READY TO REGISTER?
PARENT & CAREGIVER EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS
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, Sept. 30 7 to 8 p.m. Virtual only Wednesday, Nov. 5 10 to 11 a.m.
Join virtually or in-person at our St. Catharines location
LEARN MORE & REGISTER ONLINE
Visit our website or call Reception at least 24-hours in advance.
PAPERWORK PARTY: SSAH WORKSHOP
Are you a caregiver applying for the Special Services at Home (SSAH) funding? Join us for a guided workshop designed to help you navigate the SSAH application process with confidence.
This session will walk you through key sections of the application, offer tips for clearly presenting your child’s or family member’s needs, and answer common questions caregivers often face. Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing an existing application, this workshop will provide valuable guidance and support.
DATES: TIMES:
Monday, Oct. 20 10:30 a.m. to noon
LOCATION
Join virtually or in-person at our St. Catharines location
PARENT & CAREGIVER EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS
Hosted by a Niagara Children’s Centre Social Worker
PAPERWORK PARTY: ACSD WORKSHOP
Need help applying for the Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities (ACSD) program? This workshop is designed to guide caregivers step by step through the ACSD application process. We will break down each section of the form, explain what documents to gather, and offer tips for clearly presenting your family’s needs. Whether you are applying for the first time or need help with a renewal, this session will make the process easier to understand.
DATES: TIMES: LOCATION
Tuesday, Nov. 18 10:30 a.m. to noon Join virtually or in-person at our St. Catharines location
BEHAVIOURAL SUPPORT WORKSHOPS
Hosted by Niagara Children’s Centre Behavioural Consultants
TOILET TRAINING TOGETHER: A FAMILY-CENTRED APPROACH
Join us for an educational session to learn what toileting readiness looks like, how to plan and prepare a toileting routine, and learn about different toilet training strategies.
DATES: TIMES: LOCATION:
Tuesday, Sept. 30 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. Join virtually or in-person at Wednesday, Nov. 18 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. our St. Catharines location
FROM CHAOS TO CALM: MAKING MORNINGS AND BEDTIMES EASIER
Learn what might be the cause of the -chaos and how to help your child follow the routine. Parents will be given the tools to understand their child’s behaviour and strategies to help overcome those behaviours.
DATES: TIME: LOCATION: Wednesday, Oct. 8 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. Virtual only
QUESTIONS OR READY TO REGISTER?
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 who ‘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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