Survive & Thrive in Jr. High
A group for kids with LD/ADHD who are preparing to move up to junior high/middle school or are already there.
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Middle school and/or junior high school can be especially hard for students with Learning Disabilities (such as Dyslexia) and/or ADHD. With multiple teachers, an increased workload and many more students, middle school and junior high can be an overwhelming experience.
In this program, a Foothills Academy provisional psychologist will facilitate a group for kids with LD/ADHD who are preparing to move up to middle/junior high school or are already there. A variety of topics related to challenges with executive functioning and social skill expectations at these levels are covered, including study skills, time management & organization, peer relationships and bullying, goal setting and dealing with adolescence and self-esteem issues. In a fun and interactive environment, participants will become better prepared to make the middle school and/or junior high experience successful.
Topics include:
- Identifying Personal Learning Strengths, and Goal-Setting
- Identifying Learning Challenges & Self-Advocacy
- Working in Groups, Social Skills, and Engaging in Small Talk
- Friendships and Dating: “How-Tos” and Social Responsibility
- Study Skills, Time Management, Organization & Test-Taking Strategies
- Dealing with Adolescence (self-esteem, body changes & hygiene)
- Being Safe: Dealing with Bullying/Cyberbullying and Internet Safety
Note: Parents should be aware that general discussion about the various diagnoses and their related challenges may arise during the programs.
Cost:
$800 for the program
(Program fees may be claimed as psychological fees on many private benefit packages. Bursaries may be available.) There is a non-refundable $100 dollar deposit for the program.
Intake Process:
If your child/youth has yet to participate in a social skills program through Foothills Academy, a one-time intake process must be completed before registration. Please note: the intake process can sometimes take one to two weeks, as we want to ensure that we can meet the needs of all the children/youth in our program. It is ideal to begin the intake process well before you intend to register for programs to ensure availability.
Registration Overview:
After the intake process is complete, you will be sent the registration form package. If your child/youth has already participated in Camp Amicus or Social Skills programs through Foothills Academy, contact our Intake Coordinator (403.270.9400 ext.252) to register your child.
Jana has a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Calgary, and is registered with the Alberta College of Social Workers. She has a history of working with children, youth, and families, and is passionate about early intervention, prevention, and meeting children’s social, emotional, and developmental needs. Jana is trained in Therapeutic Crisis Intervention, Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, and the Nurturing Parenting Program Curriculum. She utilizes a trauma-informed and strength-based approach in her social work practice, aimed at mitigating the effects of trauma, strengthening family resilience, increasing natural supports, and building on existing strengths.