We are currently building new, inclusive March of Dimes Canada (MODC) children’s programming!
Over the decades of delivering life-changing children’s programs at MODC, including Conductive Education, we have learned that many families experience challenges understanding and navigating the children’s service system and often don’t find the kind of program their child really needs.
Too often, we know that assessments and program criteria focus too heavily on a child’s “deficits”, rather than the child’s and family’s strengths. This may encourage families and service providers to focus on what is “wrong” with the child and perpetuate an ableist view of disability.
We’re working on a new kind of evidence-based early learning program for kids with disabilities. The new program is planned to be an inclusive recreational and education program within an occupational therapy setting that supports the success, growth and development of children with disabilities and prepares them for their future.
The new program will include learning opportunities for children and youth with disabilities to be connected, stay connected and participate in their community. When fully implemented, we’ll deliver this program in both drop-in and scheduled groups, with one-on-one supports and virtual programming available.
We can’t wait to start offering this exciting new program! We expect to offer the program in a pilot phase in Toronto in summer, 2024, expanding to scheduled activities later in this year. We’ll be expanding to Halifax in spring, 2025, with other locations to be announced.
Check back here in late spring, 2024 for more information about pilot phase drop-ins!
If you have any questions, please contact:
Sabrina Pacheco
Director, Community Programs
