Youth Program in Toronto
Rec and Connect is a free youth program in Toronto for teens and young adults looking to build social skills in a supportive group setting. Participants will meet in person once a week and explore a variety of recreational activities, from art and storytelling to games and team challenges. The goal is to make friends, build confidence, and have fun!
Who is Rec and Connect for?
This youth program may be a good fit if you (or the participant):
- are 17–25 years old
- can take part in a 90-minute interactive session once a week
- want to meet other people your age in a relaxed and inclusive environment
- can follow instructions and are willing to try new activities
Program details
Dates: February 4 to March 11, 2026
Time: Wednesdays, 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm
Location: 99 Duncan Mill Road, Toronto, ON M3B 1Z2
Cost: Free
Registration deadline: January 15, 2026
Program schedule
Here is a complete program schedule for the Rec and Connect youth program. Each week brings a new theme with engaging activities.
Week
| Scheduled Activities
|
| Week 1 – Welcome and Connection February 4, 2026
| - Icebreakers (name, fun fact, connection bingo)
- Welcome art wall
- Teambuilding games
- Buddy pairing
- Sensory-friendly social stations
|
| Week 2 – Communication and Confidence | - Story circles
- Roleplay scenarios
- Show-and-tell with a twist
- Communication games (e.g., charades, Pictionary, telephone)
- Confidence wall
- Digital storytelling activities
|
| Week 3 – Creativity and Collaboration | - Group art mural
- Collaborative storytelling
- Music jam session
- Build-it teamwork challenge
- Creative activity stations
- Group vision board
|
Week 4 – Problem Solving and Fun February 25, 2026
| - Adapted escape room challenge
- Puzzle relay
- STEM building challenge
- Mystery bag game
- Scavenger hunt with riddles
- Fix-it teamwork challenge
|
Week 5 – Friendship and Belonging March 4, 2026
| - Friendship bracelet exchange
- “All About Me & Us” collage
- Circle of compliments activity
- Team art project
- Friendship bingo
- Shared storytelling
- Cooperative inclusion-focused games
|
| Week 6 – Celebration and Next Steps | - Reflection circle
- Memory wall/journey board
- Certificate and recognition ceremony
- “Next steps” visioning activity
- Celebration game or dance party
- Group photo and closing ritual
|
The Programs in a Box series has been created by Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital and is being brought to you by March of Dimes Canada and the generosity of our donors and supporters.
