Group Program FAQs
Q: Who can attend the programs?
A: Children with a diagnosed or suspected Learning Disability/ADHD as their primary diagnosis without major behaviour or emotional regulation issues. Acceptance is determined through an intake process to ensure a good fit between the needs of the child and what the program can deliver (see below). If you have already completed the intake process, we may ask parents/guardians to submit a new Parent Intake Form if our intake team determines a more current parent perspective is needed.
Q: How does registration for the Psychology Program work if my child has completed the intake process?
A: At times, we may see a high level of interest in our Psychology Programs, so completion of the intake process does not guarantee registration. We form our psychology youth groups based on the best make up of the group (i.e. age, identified needs) and available spots. As we offer programs during the Fall, Winter, and sometimes Spring seasons, we encourage families who have completed the intake process, but were unable to register for a spot, to reach out to our intake coordinator once the following season's program dates have been added to our website if you are still interested in registering.
Q: What is the definition of a Learning Disability?
A: Children with a Learning Disability have average to above average IQ but have a neurological deficit in one or more areas of learning. To see the Learning Disabilities Association of Canada’s official definition of a Learning Disability, click here.
Q: What training do the Facilitators have?
A: The facilitators are post-secondary students who are generally studying in the fields of Education, Social Work, Recreation, Rehabilitation and/or Psychology. Many are members of our psychology team. They are given training prior to the start of the program and supported throughout the course of the program by the Provisional Psychologist facilitator.
Q: Which program is the right one for my child?
A: The Survive & Thrive Junior High program has a social skills component but also has an emphasis on developing skills that are challenging for many children and teens with LD/ADHD, such as time management, organizational skills and study skills.
The Girls Only program focuses on building empowerment through understanding diagnoses, awareness of strengths, and increasing a sense of belonging and connection.
Q: What are the expectations of the parents?
A: While the parents do not stay for the programs, there is weekly communication with parents about what has been learned and activity suggestions to try at home. Participants will get much more from the program if the skills that they are learning on Saturday are talked about and reinforced by parents during the week. Helping your child to attend as many classes as possible is also important. The skills taught build upon one another from week to week, so missing a session can make an impact.
Q: My child takes medication for ADHD during the school week, but we usually don’t use it on the weekends. Is this alright?
A: We require that if your child is normally on medication during the school day, they also take their medication when they attend the Saturday Programs. We find that the participants gain much more from the program this way.
Q: What should my child bring with them?
A: Your child must bring a pair of indoor shoes. They may bring a (nut-free) snack and water if they want. All electronic devices should be left at home. They can interfere with the learning that should be taking place during the sessions and will not be allowed.
Q: Can this program be claimed on my medical benefits?
A: Because these programs are overseen by a Registered Psychologist, many people are able to claim them on their health care benefits. Check your plan to see if you have psychological services as a benefit, the amount that will be covered and whether it requires pre-approval.
Q: Do the Psychology Programs qualify for FSCD funding?
A: Some parents are able to obtain FSCD (Family Support for Children with Disabilities) funding for their child to attend our programs, depending on the determined needs of their child. You can reach out to your FSCD Caseworker to ask if your child would be eligible for funding; however, they will require the child to be registered in the psychology group program in order to add the funding to your FSCD contract. Please note that FSCD funding is not available for our Survive and Thrive in Junior High program.
Q: Do you accept payment plans?
A: Contact us, and we can make arrangements that work for you. The full cost of the camp will need to be paid prior to the end of the program.
Q: Do you offer subsidies/bursaries?
A: Yes, through the generosity of donors, we may be able to offer financial assistance to families who require extra assistance. Bursaries depend on income and the number of people in the household.
Q: What is the intake process?
A: The intake process is designed to ensure that there is a good fit between what the program can offer and what the child/youth needs. We will ask for copies of psychoeducational assessments, IPPs, school report cards, and permission to speak with your child’s teacher. We ask parents questions like: How does your child do socially? What is your biggest concern?
Has the school expressed any concerns? How do you deal with your child’s behaviour?
Q: How do I begin the intake process?
A: You can call 403-270-9400 ext. 252 and ask to speak to the Intake Coordinator.