This page is updated regularly | Last updated: February 3, 2026
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Community Resources
ASK A SLP ABOUT AAC (AUGMENTATIVE and ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATION) – Virtual Workshop
In this information session the Speech-Language Pathologist will be sharing about what augmentative communication is and how it can help with comprehension and as a means of expression, what types of AAC systems are available, the difference in AAC apps and suggestions for getting started with AAC. There will be an opportunity to ask questions about using augmentative communication.
Appropriate for: Parents and Caregivers
Presenter: Tess Farrington, Communicative Disorders Assistant and Lorraine Otto, Speech-Language Pathologist
Date: Monday, April 13, 2026
Time: 6pm to 7pm
Register By: April 10, 2026
Access OAP Virtual Speaker Series Information Session
Upcoming dates:
Speaker: Ellen Wadden
Date: Thursday, March 12, 2026
Time: 12pm to 1:30pm — OR — 6:00pm – 7:30pm
School Refusal – Virtual Workshop
Appropriate for: Parents and caregivers
Upcoming dates:
Presenter: Denise Burke
Date: Monday, March 30, 2026
Time: 6 pm to 7 pm
Register By: March 27, 2026
Some of our clinics are:
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- Ask A Behaviour Consultant Clinic
- Ask A Speech Language Pathologist Clinic
- Ask A Service Coordinator “Let’s Talk School” Clinic
- Intake Financial Clinic
- Speech Language Pathology Clinic
For specific information on each clinic and dates please visit: www.sdrc.ca/clinics. Call Rehana Khanam at 519-741-1121, ext. 2201 to register.
Brightside Sibling Group
Free group for children 11 and under who have a sibling with autism (registered with OAP).
- Supporting, fun, and safe space where you can connect with others who understand your experiences
- Facilitated by our Clinical Therapists
- Increase your understanding of autism
- Opportunity to share concerns about the future
- Problem solving and perspective taking
- Learn how to support your sibling and yourself!
Morning and Afternoon Sessions Available
Thursday, March 19, 2026 (RSVP by March 12, 2026)
Register for one session per child by emailing Rehana at r.khanam@sunbeamcommunity.ca
Sunbeam Community and Developmental Services.
65 Hanson Ave., Kitchener, ON, N2C 2H6
Offered as part of SDRC’s Foundational Family Supports through the OAP.
Groups at SDRC
Autism Social Skills Group
SDRC offers a 6-week Social Skills Group to children/youth with an autism spectrum disorder between the ages of 11 and 17 years. A referral is required as this is not a drop-in group. The Six-Week Group runs on Tuesday evenings from 5:00 pm-6:30 pm.
SDRC offers a Monthly Social Group for youth between the ages of 14 and 17 years with an autism spectrum disorder with no intellectual disability. Individuals must be able to be independent. The purpose of the group is to help individuals develop social skills. A referral is required as this is not a drop-in group.
Please call 519-741-1121 for more information about how to join.
The Weekly Mothers’ Support Group at SDRC
The Mothers’ Support Group is a 6-week group, providing the opportunity for mothers to discuss a range of topics related to parenting a child with an intellectual disability and/or autism. Topics include: understanding and sharing the diagnosis, grief and resilience, community resources, behavioural challenges and self-care. Guest speakers from the community and SDRC also contribute their expertise.
The group is a great way to connect with other mothers who understand your daily experience. It is a small group, for
6 – 10 members, and runs for 6 consecutive weeks.
Two times are offered:
– Wednesday evenings from 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
– Thursday mornings from 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Groups are offered 2 – 3 times per year. Please call 519-741-1121 for more information about how to join.
The Monthly Mothers’ Group
Monthly Mothers’ groups of SDRC are offered at two different times:
Daytime: The last Friday of the month
from 10:00 am to 11:30 am
Evening: The last Tuesday of the month
from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm
The purpose of the group is to connect with other mothers, share ideas, learn more about community resources and get support. Speakers are often invited to share information on topics of interest to group members. Some of the topics discussed in the past year were: anxiety, school issues and grief.
Please call 519-741-1121 for more information about how to join.
The Monthly Fathers’ Support Group
The Fathers’ Support group is open to fathers in Waterloo Region who have a child (of any age) with an intellectual disability and/or autism. The group meets monthly.
It is a great opportunity for dads to discuss a wide range of topics related to parenting a child with an intellectual disability and/or autism. Fathers learn from guest speakers as well as from each other, sharing wisdom, understanding and a chance to talk to other dads who “get it”.
Some of the topics discussed in the past year were: mindfulness, sharing the diagnosis and advocating for your child.
The Fathers Support Group meets on the
3rd Tuesday of the month from 6:30 – 8:00 pm.
Please call 519-741-1121 for more information about how to join.
Who Can Access Services:
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- Children, youth, and families living with or suspected of having FASD
- Ages: Up to 18 years old, or up to 21 if still attending school
- Must reside in the Waterloo Region
Referral Process:
-
- Referrals can be made via Plexus
- Eligible referrers include:
- The individual or their legal guardian
- Extended family members
- Family physicians
- Agencies acting on behalf of the individual/family (with permission)
- Individuals aged 16+ must provide consent if they understand the implications of assessment/treatment
Support Offered:
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- Coordination and guidance from FASD Coordinators
- Resources for caregivers, health professionals, and social service providers
- Information and assistance regarding eligibility and services
Need Help or Have Questions?
Contact the FASD Coordinators at SDRC directly for clarification on eligibility or services for children under 18 at: plexusfasd@sunbeamcommunity.ca
They can also be found on Instagram and Twitter at – @Plexus Fasd Iike, follow, share and connect!
Referrals can be made here: Plexus Referral
sunbeam-centre.ontarionow.ca/self-referral/?aLanguage=
FASD Ontario Webinars
FASD Ontario has a resource page with past webinar recordings that cover a wide variety of topics within FASD including FASD and cannabis, FASD prevention, supporting parents raising children with FASD and more.
www.fasdinfotsaf.ca/webinars.
Recreation and Wellness Programs of SCDS
The team introduces the monthly Recreation and Wellness Calendar of Events, which contains information and details for all group activities at Sunbeam. It can be found on the Sunbeam Community website here:
www.sunbeamcommunity.ca/recreation-wellness-program
These programs are eligible for Passport funding for adults 18 and older, and are also available as fee-for-service options for children aged 12 and up.
For more information and registration, please contact the Recreation & Wellness department via phone: 519-893-6200 (ext. 1211) or email: recreation@sunbeamcommunity.ca
DSO Central West
DSO CWR is funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, is one of nine DSO’s in Ontario and is administered by Sunbeam Community and Developmental Services.
What services can you apply for?
There are many different services offered across the province. Some of the services that may be available in your area include:
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- housing supports
- respite for your caregivers
- supports to help you take part in the community
- specialized and clinical supports
- Adult Protective Service Worker Program
- Passport program
Please check their website, www.dsocwr.ca, for more information.
Community Resources
We want to provide an informative resource that will be a useful guide for you. Sunbeam Developmental Resource Centre does not necessarily endorse the information contained in this Update. The purpose is to provide information to the community. It is up to the reader to decide what is useful for them. We make every effort to ensure that our information is accurate and relevant. We apologize for any errors or omissions that occur.
AccessOAP
Intake Organization to connect you with autism programs and services available to your family through the Ontario Autism Program.
If you have questions about the New Access-OAP, how to create an account or the Ontario Autism Program visit these websites:
Autism Ontario Calendar of Upcoming Events
Autism Ontario helps all individuals with autism and families in their communities have access to meaningful supports, information, and connections so they are equitably and seamlessly supported across their life course.
www.autismontario.com/events
CMHA Suicide Prevention Guide ‘Lean in and Listen’ is available online now
Lean in and Listen: A guide to help prevent suicide can help when someone needs it most. Inside the guide, you’ll find; what to say (and not say) when someone reaches out for help, what it means to be a “trusted person”, step-by-step instructions for creating a safety plan. Please check at this link below:
https://cmha.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/CMHA-Lean-In-and-Listen-Suicide-Prevention-Guide.pdf
9-8-8
9-8-8 is a national helpline in Canada that gives people access to suicide prevention services via call or text. It’s available in all provinces and territories, 24/7 and free of charge. Its goal is to prevent suicide. Calls and texts will be directed to a network of partners in communities across the country. People can call or text 9-8-8 toll-free, anytime for support in English and French.
Groups and Workshops at Camino Wellbeing + Mental Health
Groups are ongoing sessions, typically meeting weekly for about 8 weeks. Workshops are one-time events focused on specific topics.
Please visit their website at www.caminowellbeing.ca/groups-workshops for details.
To register for any group or workshop, please email groups@caminowellbeing.ca or call 519-743-6333.
The BRAND NEW Safe and Secure Website is now live!
Safe & Secure is a seven-step guidebook created by families, for families—filled with practical planning steps, real stories, and worksheets to help families plan for a good life and a secure future for their family member with a disability. First published in 1996, Safe and Secure was created to help families imagine and plan for a good life for their loved one with a disability, while also giving families peace of mind. This edition has been updated with an Ontario focus and the most current information available.
You can now:
- Read the fully accessible online version of the book
- Explore and download each chapter digitally
- Download all of the accompanying worksheets
- Read testimonials and reviews
Visit the website to explore Safe & Secure online at this link: https://www.safeandsecurebook.ca/
Foundational Family Services
Please click on this link below to view and register for any of the sessions:
Navigating life with autism can be a journey of discovery and growth for families. The Foundational Family Services program is designed to empower families with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to navigate the journey confidently.
They offer a wide range of evidence-based supports provided in various formats to help caregivers learn how to best support their child or youth with autism. They include:
- Family and peer mentoring
- Caregiver workshops and follow-up coaching sessions
- Brief targeted consultations
- Transition supports
- Family resource and clinic days
Online registration is quick and easy, with no intakes required. Families can choose to access these services at any point based on their needs, at no cost. There are no limits to the number of times families can register for Foundational Family Services.
If you have any questions about our Foundational Family Services or would like support navigating community resources, please call 416-925-5141 ext. 2590, or contact FoundationalFamilyServices@surreyplace.ca.
Homework Support for Newcomer Students
The YMCA of Three Rivers, in partnership with United for Literacy, offers a homework assistance and small group tutoring program for newcomer students between 5 and 16 years (JK-grade 10). Please note: permanent residence status is required for both parent and child to participate. If you have any questions, please contact Fabio Roquetti at fabio.roquetti@ytr.ymca.ca.
Please check this online form of YMCA to learn more and register.
School Navigation Workshop Series by WRFN
Modified Days and Safety Plan (In person)
Wednesday March 11, 6:30 pm to 8 pm
Learn what your rights as a caregiver/parent are and what must be done before putting a Modified Day in place, including proper approvals and a transition plan according to policy.
In person at 500 Hallmark Drive, Waterloo
For more information and register, email info@wrfn.info.
Hosted by WRFN Family Resource Coach Lisa Cook.
Intro to the RDSP
Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 1pm
Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at 2pm
School-Issue Parent Support Group of WRFN
This peer-led group provides support, advice and a safe environment for parents who have questions or concerns about school issues affecting their children with special needs. The WRFN (Waterloo Region Family Network) School Issues Support Group meets on the last Wednesday of each month during the school year. For more information, please contact Lisa Cook at lisa.cook@wrfn.info.
Special Education Resource Guide of Community Living Ontario (CLO)
Navigating Special Education in Ontario
A Guide for Students, Parents and Caregivers
This guidebook is intended to provide information for parents, caregivers, and community organizations that support students with disabilities. No matter your role, access to information is key when advocating for students throughout their learning journey.
Please check CLO’s website to see the Special Education Resource Guide
Some registration dates to remember:
Summer day camps and power skating clinics – February 24 (resident); February 27 (non-resident)
Active living – March 3 (resident); March 6 (non-resident)
Aquatics/leadership – March 17 (resident); March 20 (non-resident)
Helpful Links to Community Workshops and Activity Guides
City of Waterloo Program and Activities Guide
City of Kitchener Active Kitchener
City of Cambridge Activity Guide
City of Guelph Programs and Activities
Belwood Lodge and Camp Registration
Belwood Lodge and Camp is now advertising registration for its 2026 season. Located in Belwood, Ontario, Belwood Lodge and Camp is an overnight summer camp dedicated to meeting the recreational needs of children, youth, and adults with developmental disabilities.
Since 1946, Belwood Lodge and Camp has provided an engaging, safe holiday experience for people with intellectual disabilities. They offer music, dance, swimming, adaptive sports, science, nature, campfire, group games and many more. One, two, and three-week sessions are available, and the program is passport funding friendly. Registration and additional information are available by visiting www.belwoodlodgeandcamp.com emailing office@belwoodlodgeandcamp.com, or calling 519-843-1211.
March Break Camp and Summer 2026 Camps
KidsAbility has posted all required information about March Break 2026 Camp and Summer 2026 Camps.
Please check these links:
Overnight Camp Directory Summer 2026
Helpful Links to Community Workshops and Activity Guides
City of Waterloo Program and Activities Guide
City of Kitchener Active Kitchener
City of Cambridge Activity Guide
City of Guelph Programs and Activities
Different agencies offer a variety of resources, workshops and educational sessions for parents, caregivers and professionals on various topics of interest. For more information on these visit these links:
www.kidsability.ca/programs-services-directory
www.eafwr.on.ca/events
wrfn.info/category/event
Fee Assistance for Leisure and Recreational Activities
Fee Assistance for Leisure and Recreational Activities are available from different sources in the Region of Waterloo. More information on eligibility criteria and how to apply, online application form can be found at these links:
The City of Waterloo: Fee-assistance-application Waterloo
The City of Kitchener: Fee-assistance Kitchener
The City of Cambridge: Activities for Less Fee Assistance application Cambridge
YMCA KW: Fee-Assistance YMCA
The Hangout Café at the KW Habilitation is an inviting and comfortable place where everyone is welcome.
What to Expect: No purchase necessary, but they’ll have coffee, tea, other drinks, and snacks to buy.
Hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays 8:30 am – 11:00 am
KW Habilitation, 99 Ottawa St S. Kitchener, ON N2G 3S8
Move and Groove!
By Fun Fearless Females
Walk and Dance and even sing along with popular music in this execise class that’s fun.
*Join via Zoom from anywhere*
Wednesdays 4:15 pm to 5:00 pm
Cost to drop in $16.50 plus hst (eligible for SSAH and Passport Funding)
Email: lori@funfearlessfemales.ca to register and more information.
To better serve our community, we have moved to an online format in the fall of 2025.