Move Learn Grow Parent Workshop Descriptions - Summer 2026
Parent Workshop Series: Ready, Set, School!
Ages: Each workshop is geared to a specific age group from 2-17 years old. Please review the descriptions below to find the ones that are the best fit for you. Feel free to register for as many as you like.
Class Day and Time: Thursdays 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Dates:
July 9
July 16
July 23
July 30
Aug 6
Are you looking to learn skills to help your child transition back into the school year? This virtual workshop series is designed to support you in this goal! Over five weeks, we will be offering a variety of 1-hour sessions dedicated to discussing various skills that can prepare your child for back-to-school. Our parent workshops aim to increase your confidence, competence and comfort in navigating the back-to-school transition with your child. Each session includes a 40–45-minute presentation followed by a 15-minute Q&A. We can’t wait to see you there!
Register
Registration is open until June 5th.
Topics are as follows:
Week 1: Play Skills for School: The Early Years (intended for ages 2-8 years)
July 9, 2026, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Play is a vital skill, particularly in early childhood, serving as a primary way for children to learn, explore, and develop essential competencies. This workshop aims to provide a deeper understanding of how purposeful play forms a strong foundation for future academic success. We will explore the powerful nature of play and its critical role in early development. Grounded in a strengths-based approach,the workshop emphasizes meeting children at their current stage and using play intentionally to support growth in communication, social interaction, problem solving, and confidence. We will also discuss practical strategies that enhance play skills at home.
Week 2: Social Skills for School: The Later Years (intended for ages 9-17 years)
July 16, 2026, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
The later childhood and teen years bring increasingly complex social expectations—friendship dynamics shift, conflict becomes more nuanced, emotions run high, and social pressures grow. This workshop will explore practical, developmentally appropriate strategies for supporting youth in making and maintaining friendships, resolving social conflicts, managing social anxiety, and strengthening self-advocacy skills. We will discuss common social challenges experienced by children with disabilities (including autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, and related differences), and how these challenges may look at home, school, and in the community.
Week 3: Sensory Strategies for School (intended for ages 4-14 years)
July 23, 2026, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
This occupational therapist led workshop helps parents understand how sensory processing affects learning, behaviour, and participation at school. When parents understand their child’s sensory needs, they can better advocate for their child and partner with educators to create environments where their child can thrive.
What Parents Will Learn:
How sensory processing works and why certain environments or tasks may feel overwhelming or under stimulating for children with disabilities.
Common school day challenges—such as transitions, noise, movement demands, and attention—and how sensory needs can influence them.
Practical, school friendly strategies to support regulation, focus, and participation throughout the day.
How to collaborate with teachers and support teams to create sensory aware routines and accommodations.
Week 4: Behaviour and Emotion Strategies for School (intended for ages 4-14 years)
July 30, 2026, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Parents will learn key behavioural and emotional strategies that support children’s success in the school environment. The presentation outlines essential skills for emotional regulation, routine following, positive peer interactions, and effective engagement in learning. It emphasizes understanding the needs behind behaviours and applying developmentally informed, proactive approaches. Parents will gain practical tools to encourage appropriate behaviour, respond constructively to challenges, and foster emotional wellbeing, helping children build a strong foundation for long term school success.
Week 5: Back to School: Supports, Accommodations, and Collaboration (intended for ages 4-15 years)
August 6, 2026, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
This presentation provides parents with key information and strategies to support a smooth transition back to school. It covers essential elements of the school system, including available supports, the IEP process, and effective collaboration with educators. Parents will learn how to prepare their child for school routines, expectations, and new environments, as well as how to advocate for appropriate services. The session offers practical guidance to help families navigate the system confidently and ensure their child is set up for a successful school year.
Register
Registration is open until June 5th.
