Educational Resources for Children with Special Needs, Autism in Durham Region, Ontario
Updated: 3 days ago
As a parent of a child with special needs, navigating the educational landscape can often feel overwhelming. However, the Durham Region offers a variety of resources and support systems designed to help families cope with the educational needs of children with learning disabilities. This article aims to provide an overview of available resources, government assistance, and educational institutions that can help your child thrive.
Educational Resources for Children with Special Needs, Autism in Durham Region, Ontario
Table of Contents
1. Understanding Your Child's Needs
Every child is unique, and understanding their specific learning needs is the first step in accessing the right resources. Children with special needs may face challenges related to communication, behavior, or cognitive development. Identifying these needs can help you seek appropriate support and interventions.
2. Educational Resources in Durham Region
In the Durham Region, there are numerous educational resources available for children with special needs, aimed at providing support, guidance, and inclusive learning environments. Here’s an expanded overview of these resources:
1. Children's Developmental and Behavioural Supports
This organization offers behavior consultation and coaching for both educators and parents of children with special needs. Their team of Behavior Consultants works closely with licensed child care professionals to develop strategies that support children with behavioral challenges. They provide tailored consultations that focus on specific goals to enhance the child's learning experience.
2. Grandview Kids
Grandview Kids is dedicated to supporting children with special needs through various programs and services. They offer general room and child-specific consultation to facilitate successful inclusion in licensed child care programs. Additionally, Grandview Kids is involved in the Ontario Autism Program, providing caregiver-mediated programs that help develop social interaction, communication, and pre-academic skills for children on the autism spectrum.
3. Surrey Place Centre
Surrey Place provides specialized services for children with visual impairments through their Blind-Low Vision Early Intervention Program. This program supports children from birth to six years old, ensuring they receive the necessary early intervention and support to thrive in their developmental journey.
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4. EarlyON Child and Family Centres
These centres offer free programs and services for families with children aged 0-6, including those with special needs. EarlyON centres provide a welcoming environment where parents can access resources, participate in workshops, and connect with professionals who can assist with developmental concerns.
5. Resources for Exceptional Children and Youth Durham Region
This organization provides a range of programs and services for children aged two to twelve with identified needs. They focus on promoting inclusion and supporting families in navigating the educational landscape. Their services include access to trained professionals who can assist with educational planning and resource allocation.
6. Ontario Autism Program (OAP)
The OAP offers funding and resources specifically for families with children diagnosed with autism. This program includes various services aimed at supporting the development of children with autism, ensuring they receive appropriate interventions and support tailored to their needs.
Funding:
The OAP, funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, provides financial support to families of children and youth on the autism spectrum. Funding is needs-based and ranges from $6,600-$65,000 (as of 2025).
Eligibility:
Children and youth who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by a qualified professional are eligible.
Services:
The OAP covers a range of services, including:
Core Clinical Services: These include Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy.
Caregiver-Mediated Early Years Services: These services focus on supporting caregivers in implementing strategies to promote their child's development.
Other Supports: The OAP also covers other services, such as family and caregiver supports, respite services, and transitional supports.
Access:
Families must register with AccessOAP to access the program.
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7. Local School Boards
Durham Region's school boards, including the Durham District School Board (DDSB), have special education programs designed to support students with diverse learning needs. These programs often include individualized education plans (IEPs) and access to specialized staff who can provide additional support in the classroom.
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8. Parent Support Groups
Local support groups for parents of children with special needs can provide a valuable network for sharing experiences, resources, and coping strategies. These groups often host meetings, workshops, and events that foster community and support among families facing similar challenges.
For parent support groups for autism in the Pickering area, consider contacting Autism Ontario's Durham Chapter at (905) 432-5092 or 1-866-495-4680, or exploring resources and services offered by organizations like Kerry's Place and Grandview Kids.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of resources and support options:
Organizations and Support Groups:
Autism Ontario:
Offers various resources and support for families, including online support groups and workshops, and can help with navigating the Ontario Autism Program (OAP).
Contact: Autism Society Ontario-Durham Chapter at (905) 432-5092 (Oshawa) or toll free at 1-866-495-4680.
Website: https://www.autismontario.com/about-us/get-involved
Kerry's Place:
Provides autism support for families and caregivers, including information on various services and programs.
Grandview Kids:
Offers online parent support pages on Facebook for caregivers to Grandview clients, including a general page and a transition adolescent parent support group.
OPS (General Page): Go to facebook.com/groups/Grandview.OPS.
TAPS (Transition Adolescent Parent Support Group): Go to www.facebook.com/groups/grandviewtaps/.
Lake Ridge Community Support Services:
Offers autism caregiver, family, and peer support groups.
Contact: 905-666-9688, lrcss@lrcss.com.
Website: https://www.lrcss.com/peer-support.
Additional Resources:
Holland Bloorview: Provides autism resources for families in the community, including a Family Resource Centre.
MyAutismTeam: A social network specifically for parents of individuals with autism.
Website: https://www.myautismteam.com/
Aspergers/Autism Network (AANE): Provides virtual autism parent support groups.
Website: https://aane.org/
Sibling Support Project: Offers online and local social groups for teenage and adult siblings of autistic individuals.
Website: https://siblingsupport.org/
9. Advocacy Organizations
Various advocacy organizations in the Durham Region focus on promoting the rights and needs of individuals with special needs. These organizations provide educational resources, workshops, and information on navigating the system to ensure families receive the support they need.
Ref: https://www.empoweredkidsontario.ca/memberdirectory/resourcesforexceptionalchildrenandyouthdurham
10. The Geneva Centre
The Geneva Centre for Autism provides a comprehensive range of services designed to support children with learning disabilities, particularly those on the autism spectrum. Their programs include Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) social skills groups, Intensive Behavioural Intervention (IBI), and specialized classrooms that cater to the unique needs of each child. Additionally, the Centre offers caregiver and child groups, social clubs, and employment consultation to help children develop essential life skills and social interactions. With a dedicated team of over 130 staff members, the Centre focuses on evidence-based programming to empower children and their families to achieve their goals and enhance their overall quality of life [1][2].
The Durham Region offers a wealth of educational resources for children with special needs, ranging from specialized programs and consultations to supportive community networks. By leveraging these resources, parents can better navigate the educational landscape and advocate for their children's needs, ensuring they receive the support necessary for their growth and development.
3. Government Assistance
In the Durham Region, several government assistance programs are available to support families with children who have special needs. These programs aim to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with caring for children with disabilities and to provide access to necessary services. Here’s an overview of the key government assistance options:
1. Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities (ACSD)
The ACSD program provides financial support to families caring for children with severe disabilities. Eligible families can receive monthly payments ranging from $25 to $646 (2025), depending on their household income and the severity of their child's disability. This assistance can help cover costs such as travel to medical appointments, special clothing, and respite care for parents.
2. Special Services at Home (SSAH)
The SSAH program offers financial assistance to families to purchase services that help care for children with physical and/or developmental disabilities. This program is designed to provide families with the flexibility to choose the services that best meet their child's needs.
3. Coordinated Service Planning
This service connects families with a dedicated service planning coordinator who can help navigate available resources and create a Coordinated Service Plan tailored to the child's needs. This approach ensures that families receive comprehensive support from various service providers.
4. Ontario Autism Program (OAP)
The OAP provides funding and resources specifically for families with children diagnosed with autism. This program includes various services aimed at supporting the development of children with autism, ensuring they receive appropriate interventions and support tailored to their needs.
5. Health Care Coverage
Children with severe disabilities may also receive coverage for various health-related expenses, including assessments for assistive devices, prescription drugs through OHIP+, dental care through the Healthy Smiles Ontario program, and vision care, including eyeglasses.
6. Additional Support Programs
In addition to the above programs, families may also be eligible for other support services, such as respite care, which provides temporary relief for caregivers, and access to specialized educational resources through local school boards.
Navigating the various government assistance programs available for children with special needs in the Durham Region can be complex, but these resources are designed to provide essential support to families. By understanding the options available, parents can better advocate for their children and access the necessary services to enhance their quality of life.
4. Educational Institutions
In addition to the resources mentioned, local schools and educational institutions in Durham Region are equipped to support children with special needs. Many schools have special education programs and trained staff who can provide individualized support tailored to your child's learning requirements. Engaging with your child's school and advocating for their needs can lead to a more inclusive and supportive educational experience.
While the Durham District School Board (DDSB) doesn't have schools specifically dedicated for autism, it does offer inclusive programs and supports for students with autism within its regular schools, including the Ontario Autism Program Entry to School program.
Inclusive Education: The DDSB, like other school boards in Ontario, operates under the principle of inclusive education, meaning that students with disabilities, including those on the autism spectrum, are educated alongside their peers in regular classrooms.
Ontario Autism Program (OAP): The OAP is a provincial program that supports children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families. The OAP Entry to School program specifically helps children prepare for entering school (kindergarten or Grade 1).
Entry to School Program: This program has two phases: the first six months focuses on building school readiness skills, and the next six months focuses on supporting the transition to school.
Grandview Children's Centre: Grandview Children's Centre is a partner in the OAP and offers the Entry to School program.
School Locator: The DDSB has a school locator tool to help families find schools in their area. Website: https://www.ddsb.ca/en/our-schools/find-a-school.aspx.
Contact Information: For more information about the OAP Entry to School program, you can contact Grandview Children's Centre at APearlyyearsintake@grandviewkids.ca or 905-728-1673 ext. 2468.
Here is a list of private schools with dedicated autism support: https://www.ourkids.net/autism-schools-ontario.php
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5. Coping Strategies for Parents
As a parent, it’s essential to take care of your own well-being while supporting your child. Here are some strategies to help you cope:
Connect with Other Parents: Joining local support groups can provide a sense of community and shared experiences. Connecting with other parents can offer valuable insights and emotional support.
Stay Informed: Educate yourself about your child's condition and the resources available. Knowledge can empower you to make informed decisions regarding your child's education and care.
Advocate for Your Child: Be proactive in communicating with educators and service providers. Advocate for your child's needs and ensure they receive the support necessary for their success.
Seek Professional Help: Don’t hesitate to reach out for professional support, whether through counseling or specialized services. Taking care of your mental health is crucial in navigating the challenges of parenting a child with special needs.
Navigating the educational resources available for children with special needs in Durham Region can be challenging, but you are not alone. With the right support, information, and advocacy, you can help your child thrive in their educational journey. Remember to utilize the resources available, connect with other parents, and prioritize your well-being as you support your child.
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End: Educational Resources for Children with Special Needs, Autism in Durham Region
