SERVICE GUIDE WINTER 2021 - AUTISM PROGRAM MCMASTER CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL - HAMILTON HEALTH SCIENCES

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SERVICE GUIDE WINTER 2021 - AUTISM PROGRAM MCMASTER CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL - HAMILTON HEALTH SCIENCES
Autism Program
    McMaster
    Children’s Hospital

Service Guide
WINTER 2021

                          FREE
                          Foundational
                             Service
                            Offerings
                             Inside!
SERVICE GUIDE WINTER 2021 - AUTISM PROGRAM MCMASTER CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL - HAMILTON HEALTH SCIENCES
You want the best for your kids.
So do we.
Saying their first word, attending a friend’s birthday party, landing a job…

We’re here to help you realize your hopes and dreams for your child. Our goal is to make your family’s
life less stressful and more enjoyable so everyone can reach their potential. We’ll partner with you to
help you and your child build skills and embrace their unique traits and talents.

We’re excited to offer Foundational Family Services as part of the Ontario Autism Program (OAP).
These services include consultation appointments, clinics, clinical and recreational groups for children
and youth, and parent and caregiver workshops and training. All Foundational family services are
provided at no cost and are included throughout this guide.

Many of our services are also now offered virtually using either the Zoom Healthcare or the Ontario
Health Network (OTN) online platforms. Descriptions indicate whether a service is offered virtually, in
person, or both.

Whether you choose to receive services virtually or in person, you will receive the same level of
service you’ve come to expect from the McMaster Children’s Hospital Autism Program.
Belonging to one of the largest children’s hospitals in Canada, we are in a unique position.

•	Our Autism Program is connected to dozens of other exceptional child and youth services, and
   we’re able to offer a level of integration and expertise that not all centres can provide.
•	As a teaching hospital, we have the latest research at our fingertips, and our patients participated
   in globally-recognized studies.
•	We are nationally accredited, and our staff are held to the highest standard of training and oversight.

If there is a service you would like to see that we’re not offering, please let us know. We welcome
your feedback along the way.

Features of this guide
SERVICE FEATURES
	Keep an eye out for icons listed on Page 10. They will indicate features of different services,
  including which skill areas they target.

LEVELS
     se the chart on Page 11 to determine which level best applies to your child. If you have questions
    U
    about levels, please contact us. These levels are a general guide; your child may not fit neatly into
    a category. If a service is only offered for certain levels, it will be indicated in the description.

PRICING (1:1 ABA Therapy, Psychological Services, and Speech and Language Services)
	Prices include parking at Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre during your visit, as well as any
  materials and supplies needed for the service. There is no tax on these purchases.

2     McMasterChildrensHospital.ca/Autism
SERVICE GUIDE WINTER 2021 - AUTISM PROGRAM MCMASTER CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL - HAMILTON HEALTH SCIENCES
Contents
Expert Speaker Series                                                                        4

Family Nights                                                                                5

Parent and Caregiver Education and Training At-a-Glance                                     6-8

Icon Legend                                                                                  10

Level Descriptions                                                                           11

Preschool and Kindergarten                                                                   12

Grade 1 to 3                                                                                 18

Grade 4 to 8                                                                                24

High School                                                                                 30

                        For more information or to register for a service, please contact
                        (905) 521-2100 ext. 78972 or email at autismprogram@hhsc.ca.          3
SERVICE GUIDE WINTER 2021 - AUTISM PROGRAM MCMASTER CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL - HAMILTON HEALTH SCIENCES
Autism Program
                                                              McMaster
                                                              Children’s Hospital

UNDERSTANDING                   MAKING SENSE                    HOW TO TALK TO
AND SUPPORTING                  OF SENSORY                      YOUR CHILD ABOUT
MENTAL HEALTH                   PROCESSING                      THEIR DIAGNOSIS
IN CHILDREN
                                Presented by                    Presented by
AND YOUTH WITH                  Ali Rawling MSc (OT), OT        Dr. Caroline Roncadin,
AUTISM                          Reg. (Ont.) and Victoria        C. Psych
                                DiGiovanni MSc (OT), OT
Presented by                    Reg. (Ont.)                     Learn practical strategies
Dr. Irene Drmic, Ph.D.,                                         and ask questions about
C. Psych.                       This workshop, provided by      how to tell your child about
                                Occupational Therapists,        their diagnosis of autism.
This presentation will          will review all things
provide an overview of:         sensory processing! We          Wednesday, March 10th from
• Mental health and ASD         will start with an overview     6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
• Understanding and             of our senses, explain how
   supporting mental            your child may react or
   health with a focus on       respond to sensory input
   anxiety in kids with ASD     and provide some general
• Developing social and         strategies on how to
   emotional competence         address sensory needs or
                                preferences. Questions are
Thursday, January 28th from     welcome and encouraged.
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
                                Tuesday, February 9 from
                                6:30 - 8:00 p.m.

4    McMasterChildrensHospital.ca/Autism
SERVICE GUIDE WINTER 2021 - AUTISM PROGRAM MCMASTER CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL - HAMILTON HEALTH SCIENCES
FAMILY NIGHTS HAVE
                        GONE VIRTUAL!
                        The McMaster Children’s Hospital Autism Program, Autism Ontario, and the Young
                        Caregivers Association have teamed up to offer activities for the whole family.
                        Participate in a parent support group, sibling support group, or a recreational
                        group for children with autism. Register to attend any or all of the groups!

PARENT SUPPORT GROUP                                   NEW! TEEN SIBLING SUPPORT
Meet with other parents, share information and         GROUP
experiences, ask, and answer questions, and make
                                                       This virtual program runs once a month and
connections. We have 2 groups that happen on
                                                       is designed to bring siblings together that are
alternate months including a new diagnosis group
                                                       ages 13 and older who support a sibling who
and a coffee and a chat group. Join Liz Mitchell and
                                                       has autism at home. Together we will share our
Liz Boyd, Service Navigators from Autism Ontario.
                                                       experiences and explore themes like stress,
                                                       emotions, communication, and self-care. This
When:		Please contact for upcoming
                                                       group allows older teens to connect once a
        dates and times available.
                                                       month with others who have similar experiences
                                                       caring for a sibling with Autism.
To register:	Please visit autismontario.com/
              events or contact Liz Mitchell,
                                                       When:		Runs virtually once a month on
              Service Navigator by email at
                                                               Thursdays from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
              liz.m@autismontario.com for more
                                                               on January 21st, February 25th
              information.
                                                               and March 25th.

SIBLING SUPPORT GROUP                                  To register:	Please contact Cayleigh Sexton at
                                                                     905-708-4347 or email csexton@
This 4-week virtual program is designed to                           powerhouseproject.ca.
bring siblings together! Led by Cayleigh Sexton,
Program Manager with the Young Caregivers
Association, this group is for children ages 7-12      RECREATIONAL GROUPS FOR
years old who support a sibling who has autism         CHILDREN WITH AUTISM
at home. Together we will explore themes
that can help siblings in their daily life such as     Children are invited to participate virtually in
dealing with emotions and how to take time             fun theme-based recreational groups offered
for themselves. The group provides children            throughout the winter months.
with an opportunity to connect with peers who
understand the experience of having a sibling          To register:	To learn more or to register:
who needs some extra help.                                           Please contact a Family Service
                                                                     Coordinator at 905-521-2100 ext.
When:		Runs virtually every Thursday                                78972 or email autismprogram@
        from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. starting                               hhsc.ca.
        Thursday, January 28th until
        Thursday, February 18th.

To register:	Please contact Cayleigh Sexton at
              905-708-4347 or email csexton@
              powerhouseproject.ca.

                            Autism Program
                            McMaster
                            Children’s Hospital
                                                                                                          5
SERVICE GUIDE WINTER 2021 - AUTISM PROGRAM MCMASTER CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL - HAMILTON HEALTH SCIENCES
PARENT AND CAREGIVER EDUCATION AND TRAINING AT-A-GLANCE

January
    TUESDAY     Coffee and Connecting
    JAN 12      DATE Tuesday, January 12 from 6:00 - 6:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY       Toilet Training
    JAN 13      DATE Wednesday, January 13 from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

     FRIDAY     Understanding Challenging Behaviour, Part 1
    JAN 15      DATE Friday, January 15 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

                Coffee and Connecting
                DATE Friday, January 15 from 9:30 - 10:00 a.m.

    TUESDAY     Managing Funds
    JAN 19      DATE Tuesday, January 19 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

                Virtual Learning
                DATE Tuesday, January 19 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

                Coffee and Connecting
                DATE Tuesday, January 19 from 6:00 - 6:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY       Triple P Stepping Stones
    JAN 20      DATE Wednesday, January 20 from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

    THURSDAY    Assistance with Funding Applications
    JAN 21      DATE Thursday, January 21 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

     FRIDAY     Understanding Challenging Behaviour, Part 2
    JAN 22      DATE Friday, January 22 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

                Coffee and Connecting
                DATE Friday, January 22 from 9:30-10:00 a.m.
    TUESDAY     Next Steps
    JAN 26      DATE Tuesday, January 26 from 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.

                Coffee and Connecting
                DATE Tuesday, January 26 from 6:00 - 6:30 p.m.

    THURSDAY    Expert Speaker Series: Understanding & Supporting Mental
    JAN 28      Health in Children & Youth with Autism
                DATE Thursday, January 28 from 10:00 - 12:00 pm
     FRIDAY     Coffee and Connecting
    JAN 29      DATE Friday, January 29 from 9:30-10:00 a.m.

6      McMasterChildrensHospital.ca/Autism
SERVICE GUIDE WINTER 2021 - AUTISM PROGRAM MCMASTER CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL - HAMILTON HEALTH SCIENCES
PARENT AND CAREGIVER EDUCATION AND TRAINING AT-A-GLANCE

February
 TUESDAY    Coffee and Connecting
 FEB 2      DATE Tuesday, February 2 from 6:00 - 6:30 p.m.

THRUSDAY    Anxiety and Autism
 FEB 4      DATE Thursday, Februrary 4 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

 FRIDAY     Coffee and Connecting
 FEB 5      DATE Friday, February 5 from 9:30-10:00 a.m.

 TUESDAY    Expert Speaker Series: Making Sense of Sensory Processing
 FEB 9      DATE Tuesday, February 9 from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.

            Coffee and Connecting
            DATE Tuesday, February 9 from 6:00 - 6:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY   Desensitization: How to Make Difficult Events Easier
 FEB 10     DATE Wednesday, February 10 from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.

THURSDAY    Teaching a New Skill
 FEB 11     DATE Thursday, February 11 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

 FRIDAY     Coffee and Connecting
 FEB 12     DATE Friday, February 12 from 9:30-10:00 a.m.

 TUESDAY    Virtual Learning
 FEB 16     DATE Tuesday, February 16 from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.

            Coffee and Connecting
            DATE Tuesday, February 16 from 6:00 - 6:30 p.m.

 FRIDAY     Understanding Challenging Behaviour, Part 1
 FEB 19     DATE Friday, February 19 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

            Coffee and Connecting
            DATE Friday, February 19 from 9:30-10:00 a.m.

 TUESDAY    Structured Independent Learning at Home
 FEB 23     DATE Tuesday, February 23 from 12:00 - 2:00 p.m.

            Coffee and Connecting
            DATE Tuesday, February 23 from 6:00 - 6:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY   Toilet Training
 FEB 24     DATE Wednesday, February 24 from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

 FRIDAY     Understanding Challenging Behaviour, Part 2
 FEB 26     DATE Friday, February 26 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

            Coffee and Connecting
            DATE Friday, February 26 from 9:30-10:00 a.m.
                                                                        7
SERVICE GUIDE WINTER 2021 - AUTISM PROGRAM MCMASTER CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL - HAMILTON HEALTH SCIENCES
PARENT AND CAREGIVER EDUCATION AND TRAINING AT-A-GLANCE

March
 TUESDAY   Coffee and Connecting
 MAR 2     DATE Tuesday, March 2 from 6:00 - 6:30 p.m.

THURSDAY   Managing Funds
 MAR 4     DATE Thursday, March 4 from 6:00 - 6:30 p.m.

 FRIDAY    Coffee and Connecting
 MAR 5     DATE Friday, March 5 from 9:30-10:00 a.m.

 TUESDAY   Coffee and Connecting
 MAR 9     DATE Tuesday, March 9 from 6:00 - 6:30 p.m.

THURSDAY   Assistance with Funding Applications
 MAR 11    DATE Thursday, March 11 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

           Sexuality and Puberty
           DATE Thursday, March 11 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

 FRIDAY    Coffee and Connecting
 MAR 12    DATE Friday, March 12 from 9:30-10:00 a.m.

 TUESDAY   Coffee and Connecting
 MAR 16    DATE Tuesday, March 16 from 6:00 - 6:30 p.m.

 FRIDAY    Understanding Challenging Behaviour, Part 1
 MAR 19    DATE Friday, March 19 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

           Coffee and Connecting
           DATE Friday, March 19 from 9:30-10:00 a.m.

 TUESDAY   Next Steps
 MAR 23    DATE Tuesday, March 23 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

           Coffee and Connecting
           DATE Tuesday, March 23 from 6:00 - 6:30 p.m.

 FRIDAY    Understanding Challenging Behaviour, Part 2
 MAR 26    DATE Friday, March 26 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

           Coffee and Connecting
           DATE Friday, March 26 from 9:30-10:00 a.m.

 TUESDAY   Virtual Learning
 MAR 30    DATE Tuesday, March 30 from 10:00 - 12:00 p.m.

           Coffee and Connecting
           DATE Tuesday, March 30 from 6:00-6:30 p.m.
SERVICE GUIDE WINTER 2021 - AUTISM PROGRAM MCMASTER CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL - HAMILTON HEALTH SCIENCES
SERVICE GUIDE WINTER 2021 - AUTISM PROGRAM MCMASTER CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL - HAMILTON HEALTH SCIENCES
Icon Legend
The following icons are listed underneath service descriptions to highlight specific skill areas
targeted in the program for quick reference.

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                   nication                                            Leisure
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10   McMasterChildrensHospital.ca/Autism
Level Descriptions
To help parents and caregivers choose the most appropriate services, we have recommended
each service according to both age and group level. If no age or level is specified, the service
is open to all. These levels have been developed by our program for this specific purpose. If
you have any questions about what level best matches your child, please do not hesitate to
contact us at 905-521-2100, ext. 78972.

 AREA                 LEVEL A                            LEVEL B                            LEVEL C
                      •	Does not play with toys as      •	Plays with toys as they were    •	Participates in interactive and
                         they were designed                 designed and enjoys pretend        cooperative play with little to
                      • Enjoys solitary play                play                               no assistance
                      • May not respond to adult or     •	Aware of adults and peers in    •	Understands the rules of play
                         peer attempts to interact          close proximity                    including turn-taking, sharing,
                      • Enjoys cause and effect toys     •	May participate in some            winning and losing
      SOCIAL

                                                            interactive or cooperative      •	Participates in verbal
                                                            play with assistance               exchanges with self and peers
                                                         •	Does not initiate peer             during play
                                                            interaction but will follow     •	Plays board games and
                                                            along in simple interactive        video games with minimal
                                                            games                              assistance

                      •	May not have a                  •	Can request needs and wants     •	Advanced communication
                          communication system in           with 1-4 word sentences or         skills using verbal requests,
      COMMUNICATION

                          place                             by using an augmentative           comments and questions
                      • Primarily non-verbal                communication system            •	Can participate in both
                      • Uses visuals or augmentative    •	Minimal back and forth             verbal and non-verbal
                         communication device with          conversation skills                communication
                         prompting                                                          •	Can initiate, maintain and end
                      • Difficulty following simple                                           conversations with assistance
                         instructions                                                       •	May become fixated or have
                                                                                               trouble moving away from a
                                                                                               preferred topic of discussion

                      •	Needs help to complete daily    •	Can follow daily routines with •	Can follow daily routines with
                         routines such as washing,          minimal assistance                  little to no assistance
                         toileting or eating             •	Does not like to deviate from    •	Adapts to transitions and
   BEHAVIOUR &
   DAILY LIVING

                      • Engages in repetitive              daily routine and has difficulty    changes to routine
                         behaviours                         with unexpected changes          •	Can follow complex individual
                      • Difficulty transitioning from   •	May engage in repetitive            and group instructions
                         one activity to the next           behaviours but is easily            independently
                                                            redirected
                                                         •	Can follow one/two step
                                                            directions independently

                                              For more information or to register for a service, please contact
                                              (905) 521-2100 ext. 78972 or email at autismprogram@hhsc.ca.                      11
Preschool and
Kindergarten

Consultation                                                        Psychological Services
Service Planning Consultation                                       All Psychological Services are with a Ph.D. level Psychologist.
                                                                    Psychological Services may be eligible for billing to private
Not sure where to begin? During your consultation with one          insurance providers.
of our expert program staff, we will help identify your child’s
needs and strengths, and discuss your goals as a family. Service
recommendations will be made to help you achieve success.           Psychological Consultation
LEVEL           A, B, C                                             All psychological services begin with a psychological
INCLUDES       • 1-hour appointment                                 consultation appointment. These consultations provide
               • Available in-person or virtually                   the opportunity to discuss concerns related to your child’s
                                                                    development, learning, behaviour, or social-emotional
DATE            Flexible                                            functioning. The psychologist will provide strategies and/
COST            No cost                                             or make service recommendations, including whether a
                                                                    psychological assessment or treatment is recommended.
                                                                    LEVEL           A, B, C
Resource Consultation                                               INCLUDES        • 1-hour appointment
                                                                                    • Available in-person or virtually
Our expert program staff will discuss resources and supports
available in the community and/or help you complete funding         DATE             Flexible
forms.                                                              COST             No cost
LEVEL           A, B, C
INCLUDES       • 1-hour appointment
               • Available in-person or virtually                   Psychological Assessment
DATE            Flexible                                            We offer different types of psychological assessments,
COST            No cost                                             depending upon the needs of your child. They include:
                                                                    Psychoeducational, Developmental, Diagnostic, and Cognitive
                                                                    & Adaptive. Various areas of functioning are evaluated and the
                                                                    assessment may result in a diagnosis, such as an intellectual
Clinic Appointment                                                  disability, learning disability, or anxiety disorder. The assessment
                                                                    will identify areas of strength and need and the report can be
Meet with a clinician to discuss a specific skill you’d like your   used to help inform educational and treatment planning, as well
child to develop or address a concern about your child’s            as help you access funding and resources in your community.
behaviour. You will receive individualized tips and strategies
                                                                    LEVEL           A, B, C
for building skills and reducing challenging behaviours.
LEVEL                                                               INCLUDES        •	Clinical interview
                A, B, C
                                                                                    •	Observation
INCLUDES       • 1-hour appointment                                                 •	Completion of standardized testing and
               • Available in-person or virtually                                      questionnaires
                                                                                    • Feedback session
DATE            Flexible
                                                                                    •	Written report
COST            No cost                                                             •	Available in-person or virtually
                                                                    DATE             Flexible
                                                                    COST            Varies depending upon type of assessment
                                                                                    completed, starting at $1,500

12      McMasterChildrensHospital.ca/Autism
Speech and Language Services                                      Applied Behaviour Analysis
All Speech & Language Services are with a regulated Speech        (ABA)
and Language Pathologist (SLP). Speech & Language services
may be eligible for billing to private insurance providers.
                                                                  1:1 ABA Therapy
Speech and Language Assessment                                    All 1:1 ABA therapy begins with a comprehensive assessment
                                                                  and individualized behaviour plan to meet your child’s
This assessment is used to evaluate a child’s speech, language    needs. Program plans can focus on building skills, like
and social communication needs and strengths. The speech-         communication, toileting and play, or reducing challenging
language pathologist will provide strategies and/or make          behaviours, like yelling, aggression, and self-injury. Skill
recommendations regarding treatment and provide a written         building programs are provided by Autism Therapists and
report for parents/caregivers that can inform educational and     behaviour reduction programs are provided by Behaviour
treatment planning.                                               Therapists who are Board Certified Behaviour Analysts. All
                                                                  programming is overseen by a Clinical Supervisor.
LEVEL          A, B, C
                                                                  LEVEL          A, B, C
INCLUDES      •	Clinical interview
              • Observation                                       INCLUDES      •	Assessment (during weeks 1 & 2)
              •	Completion of standardized testing and                         •	Behaviour plan
                 questionnaires as appropriate                                  •	1:1 therapy with child (during weeks 3-12)
              •	Feedback session                                               •	1:1 parent/caregiver training
              • Written report                                                  •	Summary report
              •	Available in-person or virtually                               •	Available in-person or virtually
DATE           Flexible                                           DATE           Flexible
COST           $380                                               COST           1:1 Building Skills ($2700 for 2 hours/week
                                                                                 for 12 weeks) or 1:1 Reducing Challenging
                                                                                 Behaviours ($4500 for 4 hours/week for 12
                                                                                 weeks). Assessment and observation are
1:1 Speech Therapy                                                               included in the Service Package. Additional
                                                                                 treatment hours are available (cost varies
Following an assessment with a speech-language pathologist,                      depending upon service goal).
this in-clinic therapy session offers practical strategies to
promote your child’s speech and language development
and social interactions. You will learn to engage your child in
motivating, enjoyable activities while using these strategies.
Resources and materials will be provided to support practice
                                                                  Group Clinical Programs
at home.
LEVEL          B, C
                                                                  Pivotal Response Training
INCLUDES      •	1 hour 1:1 speech therapy session with child     Pivotal Response Training (PRT) is an evidence-based
                  and caregiver                                   behavioural treatment for children with autism. This program
              •	Resources and materials to support practice      involves child and parent participation. You will learn
                  at home                                         strategies that increase your child’s social communication
              * 	Assessment to be completed with a               skills using one of the pivotal areas including motivation,
                  Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre SLP          responsivity to mulitiple cues, self-management, or self-
                  prior to treatment session                      initiations. A screening will be completed to determine
              • Available in-person or virtually                  which area of PRT is appropriate for your child, or to provide
                                                                  recommendations for other services. PRT for preschoolers is
DATE           Flexible
                                                                  being offered as part of the Ministry of Children, Community
COST           $165                                               and Social Services’ Early Intervention initiative.
                                                                  LEVEL          Motivation to Talk with Others: Levels A and B
                                                                                 Responding to a Variety of Cues: Levels A and B
                                                                                 Self-Managing Behaviour: Levels B and C
                                                                                 Initiating Conversations with Others: Levels B
                                                                                 and C
                                                                  INCLUDES      •	2 2-hour group sessions for parents/
                                                                                    caregivers
                                                                                •	4 individualized virtual consultations
                                                                  DATE           Start dates and times are individualized.
                                                                  COST           No cost

                                          For more information or to register for a service, please contact
                                          (905) 521-2100 ext. 78972 or email at autismprogram@hhsc.ca.                           13
Beginning Social Skills                                              Sensory Make ‘N Take
                                                                     During this 30 minute virtual group your child will create new
This group will help your child build social communication
                                                                     sensory play items such as rainsticks, maracas, I spy bottles,
skills with peers, such as initiating and responding to
                                                                     and much more! Parent/caregiver assistance may be required.
conversation, interactive play, and making verbal requests.
Parents will participate along with their child to help them         LEVEL           B, C
respond and engage with their peers. Facilitated by Autism
Therapists with supervision from a Clinical Supervisor.              INCLUDES       • Weekly 30-minute virtual sessions at an 8:1 ratio
                                                                                    • Sign up for one, several, or all sessions
LEVEL           B, C
                                                                     DATE           Saturdays from 11:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. starting
INCLUDES       •	8 45-minute virtual sessions at a 4:1 ratio                      January 16
               •	Available virtually
                                                                     COST            No cost
DATE           Thursdays from 9:30 - 10:15 a.m. starting
               January 14
               Saturdays from 9:00 - 9:45 a.m starting
               January 16                                            Playdough Play-time
               Saturdays from 10:15 - 11:00 a.m. starting
               January 16                                            This group will help your child build fine motor skills and
                                                                     develop social communication skills with peers. The children
COST            No cost                                              will begin by following instructions to make a kid-friendly
                                                                     playdough recipe. Within each group children will work on
                                                                     different playdough creations and be encouraged to share
                                                                     with their peers.
Group Recreational Programs		                                        LEVEL          A, B, C
Circle Time                                                          INCLUDES       •	Weekly 45-minute virtual sessions at
                                                                                        a 4:1 ratio
Join us for songs and stories that will help children practice                      •	Sign up for one, several, or all sessions
a variety of skills necessary for successful participation in
                                                                     DATE           Saturdays from 11:00-11:45 a.m. starting
school virtually or in person. Parent/caregiver assistance will
                                                                                    January 16
be required.
                                                                     COST            No cost
LEVEL           A, B, C
INCLUDES       • Weekly 30-minute virtual sessions at an 8:1 ratio
               • Sign up for one, several, or all sessions
                                                                     Virtual March Break Travels
DATE           Mondays from 9:30-10:00 a.m. starting
               January 11                                            Let’s travel the world! Jump aboard our virtual airplane and
               Saturdays from 9:00-9:30 a.m. starting                discover the wonders of the world. Have you ever wanted
               January 16                                            to see the pyramids? Or swim in the deep blue sea? Fly to
COST            No cost                                              outerspace? Maybe you’re missing seeing the animals at
                                                                     the zoo? Together with Autism Therapists, your child will
                                                                     participate in virtual field trips and activities that celebrate
                                                                     locations all around the globe. Let us take you on your March
Move and Groove                                                      Break vacation while safe at home.
                                                                     LEVEL          A, B, C
Let’s move our bodies! This gross motor group has different
themes for each week. Children participate in physical               INCLUDES       •	Daily 1 hour virtual sessions
movement such as balancing, stretching, and exercising in a                         • Sign up for one, several, or all sessions
fun way to get active. Imitation skills are required or parent/                     • Daily themes and times to be determined
caregiver assistance may be needed.
                                                                     DATE           Monday, March 15 to Friday, March 19
LEVEL           A, B, C                                                             Times to be determined
INCLUDES       •	Weekly 30-minute virtual session at an            COST            No cost
                   8:1 ratio
               •	Sign up for one, several, or all sessions.
DATE           Wednesdays from 1:00-1:30 p.m. starting
               January 13
COST            No cost

14      McMasterChildrensHospital.ca/Autism
Parent and Caregiver                                            Overview of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Education and Training                                          This workshop provides an overview of the characteristics of
                                                                Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) including how children/youth
                                                                with autism often perceive the world around them differently.
Triple P Stepping Stones                                        Participants are provided with information about what can
This 9-week program for parents and caregivers of children      be challenging for children with ASD, as well as some helpful
with autism teaches positive, proactive strategies to           strategies and resources.
manage behaviours in a constructive way, encourage your         LEVEL           A, B, C
child’s development, and cope with difficult situations.
Recommended for parents and caregivers new to their child’s     INCLUDES       • 2-hour virtual workshop
diagnosis.                                                      DATE           Thursday, February 25 from 12:00-2:00 p.m.
LEVEL          A, B, C                                          COST            No cost
INCLUDES       •	6 2-hour group sessions for parents/
                  caregivers
               •	3 follow-up individualized consultations
                                                                Managing Funds
               •	Available in person or virtually, dependent   Join us for information about managing funds received and
                  upon COVID-19 health restrictions at that     the reconciliation process for the Direct Funding Option
                  time.                                         (DFO), Childhood Budget, and Interim One Time Funding. This
                                                                workshop is facilitated by a Service Navigator from Autism
DATE           Mondays from 6:00-8:00 p.m. starting
                                                                Ontario and a Direct Funding Accounts Coordinator from the
               January 18
                                                                McMaster Children’s Hospital Autism Program. We will share
               Wednesdays from 1:00-3:00 p.m. starting
                                                                helpful templates for tracking funds received and invoices.
               January 20
                                                                Questions related to eligible and ineligible expenses and the
COST           No cost                                          reconciliation process will be answered. The workshop is
                                                                designed for new funding recipients as well as families already
                                                                receiving funding. Bring any questions and if we are not able
Coffee and Connecting                                           to answer them, we will find the answer for you.
Take a break for yourself to connect with other parents and     LEVEL           A, B, C
caregivers who also have a child with autism. This informal
social time provides an opportunity to meet others, learn,      INCLUDES       • 2-hour virtual workshop
and exchange information. Facilitated by a Family Service       DATE           Tuesday, January 19 from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Coordinator.                                                                   Thursday, March 4 from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
LEVEL          A, B, C                                          COST            No cost
INCLUDES       •	30 min. virtual get-together
               •	Sign up for one, several, or all sessions
                                                                Assistance with Funding Applications
DATE           Tuesdays from 6:00-6:30pm starting on
                                                                Filling out funding applications can be difficult. This workshop
               January 12
                                                                provides a step-by-step review of completing a variety
               Fridays from 9:30-10:00am starting
                                                                of funding applications. Examples of applications to be
               January 15
                                                                reviewed are Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities,
COST           No cost                                          Special Services at Home, Disability Tax Credit, Easter Seals
                                                                Incontinience Grant, Access to Entertainment Card, and
                                                                Accessible Parking Pass.
Next Steps                                                      LEVEL           A, B, C
The days and months after a diagnosis of autism can be          INCLUDES       • 2-hour virtual workshop
overwhelming. This workshop provides a step-by-step                            • 1 follow-up individualized consultation
checklist for parents, an overview of community services and
funding options, and an opportunity to ask specific questions   DATE           Thursday, January 21 from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
about supports for your child.                                                 Thursday, March 11 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

LEVEL          A, B, C                                          COST            No cost

INCLUDES       • 2-hour virtual workshop
               • 1 follow-up individualized consultation
DATE           Tuesday, January 26 from 12:30-2:30 p.m.
               Tuesday, March 23 from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
COST           No cost

                                            For more information or to register for a service, please contact
                                            (905) 521-2100 ext. 78972 or email at autismprogram@hhsc.ca.                       15
Toilet Training                                                      Understanding Challenging Behaviour
During this workshop, you will learn to recognize when               This two-part workshop provides parents and caregivers
children are ready to begin toilet training and identify             with the skills to begin developing an intervention plan for
patterns in current toileting behaviours. Various toilet             challenging behaviour. In part one, you will learn to identify
training strategies based on Applied Behaviour Analysis              and collect data to better understand a behaviour. In part
(ABA) principles will be covered. After participating in             two, we will review your data and discuss strategies to reduce
this workshop, you will be offered up to three 1:1 virtual           challenging behaviour. This workshop will be facilitated by
appointments to individualize the information for you and            a Behaviour Therapist who is a Board Certified Behaviour
your family.                                                         Analyst. Following participation in Part 2 of the workshop, you
                                                                     will be offered a 1:1 virtual appointment to individualize the
LEVEL        A, B, C
                                                                     information for you and your family.
INCLUDES • 2-hour virtual workshop
                                                                     LEVEL          A, B, C
         • Follow-up individualized consultation
                                                                     INCLUDES       • 2 2-hour virtual workshop
DATE         Wednesday, January 13 from 9:30-11:30 a.m.
                                                                                    • 1 follow-up individualized consultation
             Wednesday, February 24 from 9:30-11:30 a.m.
                                                                     DATE           Part 1: Friday, January 15 from 10:00 a.m.-
COST         No cost
                                                                                    12:00 p.m.;
                                                                                    Part 2: Friday, January 22 from 10:00 a.m.-
Teaching a New Skill                                                                12:00 p.m.;
                                                                                    Part 1: Friday, February 19 from 10:00 a.m.-
This workshop helps caregivers learn Applied Behaviour                              12:00 p.m.;
Analysis (ABA) strategies for teaching a new skill. Examples                        Part 2: Friday, February 26 from 10:00 a.m.-
of skills include: organization and homework, daily chores,                         12:00 p.m.;
hygiene, or dressing. After participating in this workshop, you                     Part 1: Friday, March 19 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00
will be offered a 1:1 virtual appointment to individualize the                      p.m.;
information for you and your family.                                                Part 2: Friday, March 26 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00
LEVEL           A, B, C                                                             p.m.

INCLUDES       • 2-hour virtual workshop                             COST            No cost
               • 1 follow-up individualized consultation
DATE            Thursday, February 11 from                           Virtual Learning
                10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m
                                                                     Due to the pandemic, many students are currently
COST            No cost                                              receiving their education through virtual learning
                                                                     classrooms. For children/youth with autism, this method of
                                                                     instruction can be particularly challenging. This workshop
Desensitization: How to Make Difficult
                                                                     provides an overview of the possible components of
Events Easier                                                        remote learning and how to set your child/youth up for
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a lot of changes for           success for each one, using the principles of Applied
parents and their children. This workshop focuses on making          Behaviour Analysis.
activities, like wearing a mask, getting a haircut, washing hands,   LEVEL          A, B, C
or going to the store, more seamless for the entire family. You
will learn strategies to help reduce your child’s challenging        INCLUDES       • 2-hour virtual workshop
behaviour during these activities, such as understanding                            • 1 follow-up individualized consultation
how to develop a gradual approach to increase your child’s           DATE           Tuesday, January 19 from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
tolerance of these activities and situations. This workshop is                      Tuesday, February 16 from 2:00-4:00 p.m.
facilitated by a Behaviour Therapist who is a Board Certified                       Tuesday, March 30 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Behaviour Analyst. After participating in this workshop, you
will be offered a 1:1 virtual appointment to individualize the       COST            No cost
information for you and your family.
LEVEL           A, B, C
INCLUDES       • 2-hour virtual workshop
                                                                     Structured Independent Learning at Home
               • 1 follow-up individualized consultation             Structured teaching is a set of teaching techniques that
                                                                     enhances your child’s learning and independence. This
DATE            Wednesday, February 10 from 6:30-8:00 p.m.
                                                                     workshop will introduce ways that you can arrange your home
COST            No cost                                              environment and use familiar toys and materials to encourage
                                                                     play skills and daily routines, such as getting ready for school
                                                                     and completing homework. Structured teaching sets your
                                                                     child up for success by creating a learning environment that
                                                                     promotes greater independence.

                                                                     LEVEL       A, B, C
                                                                     INCLUDES • 2-hour virtual workshop
                                                                              • 1 follow-up individualized consultation
                                                                     DATE        Tuesday, February 23 from 12:00-2:00 p.m.
                                                                     COST         No cost

16      McMasterChildrensHospital.ca/Autism
POSITIVE FEEDBACK
“It takes time, effort, consistence, resilience and
 patience. They help us a lot and seeing his progress
 shows hard work truly does pays off and it is mind
 blowing. But I do believe we all work together as a
team to get him where he needs to be and continuing
to become better. I thank Ron Joyce Children’s Health
Centre and the staff for everything they have done and
their advice.” – Nuria
Grade 1 to 3

Consultation                                                        Psychological Services
Service Planning Consultation                                       All Psychological Services are with a Ph.D. level Psychologist.
                                                                    Psychological Services may be eligible for billing to private
Not sure where to begin? During your consultation with one          insurance providers.
of our expert program staff, we will help identify your child’s
needs and strengths, and discuss your goals as a family. Service    Psychological Consultation
recommendations will be made to help you achieve success.
                                                                    All psychological services begin with a psychological
LEVEL           A, B, C                                             consultation appointment. These consultations provide
INCLUDES       • 1-hour appointment                                 the opportunity to discuss concerns related to your child’s
               • Available in-person or virtually                   development, learning, behaviour, or social-emotional
                                                                    functioning. The psychologist will provide strategies and/
DATE            Flexible                                            or make service recommendations, including whether a
COST            No cost                                             psychological assessment or treatment is recommended.
                                                                    LEVEL           A, B, C
                                                                    INCLUDES        • 1-hour appointment
Resource Consultation                                                               • Available in-person or virtually

Our expert program staff will discuss resources and supports        DATE             Flexible
available in the community and/or help you complete funding         COST             No cost
forms.
LEVEL           A, B, C
INCLUDES       • 1-hour appointment                                 Psychological Assessment
               • Available in-person or virtually
                                                                    We offer different types of psychological assessments,
DATE            Flexible                                            depending upon the needs of your child. They include:
COST            No cost                                             Psychoeducational, Developmental, Diagnostic, and Cognitive
                                                                    & Adaptive. Various areas of functioning are evaluated and the
                                                                    assessment may result in a diagnosis, such as an intellectual
                                                                    disability, learning disability, or anxiety disorder. The assessment
Clinic Appointment                                                  will identify areas of strength and need and the report can be
                                                                    used to help inform educational and treatment planning, as well
Meet with a clinician to discuss a specific skill you’d like your   as help you access funding and resources in your community.
child to develop or address a concern about your child’s
behaviour. You will receive individualized tips and strategies      LEVEL           A, B, C
for building skills and reducing challenging behaviours.            INCLUDES        •	Clinical interview
LEVEL           A, B, C                                                             •	Observation
                                                                                    •	Completion of standardized testing and
INCLUDES       • 1-hour appointment                                                    questionnaires
               • Available in-person or virtually                                   • Feedback session
DATE            Flexible                                                            •	Written report
                                                                                    •	Available in-person or virtually
COST            No cost
                                                                    DATE             Flexible
                                                                    COST            Varies depending upon type of assessment
                                                                                    completed, starting at $1,500

18      McMasterChildrensHospital.ca/Autism
1:1 Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
(CBT)
                                                                  Applied Behaviour Analysis
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-               (ABA)
based psychological intervention that is goal-oriented and
short-term. The focus of CBT is to challenge and change
unhelpful thoughts, behaviours, and feelings, and to develop      1:1 ABA Therapy
coping skills and strategies in order to help improve overall
functioning and quality of life.                                  All 1:1 ABA therapy begins with a comprehensive assessment
                                                                  and individualized behaviour plan to meet your child’s
LEVEL          C                                                  needs. Program plans can focus on building skills, like
INCLUDES      •	1-hour therapy session                           communication, toileting and play, or reducing challenging
                 *10-14 sessions are typically recommended        behaviours, like yelling, aggression, and self-injury. Skill
              • Available in-person or virtually                  building programs are provided by Autism Therapists and
                                                                  behaviour reduction programs are provided by Behaviour
DATE           Flexible                                           Therapists who are Board Certified Behaviour Analysts. All
COST           $225                                               programming is overseen by a Clinical Supervisor.
                                                                  LEVEL          A, B, C
                                                                  INCLUDES      •	Assessment (during weeks 1 & 2)
Speech and Language Services                                                    •	Behaviour plan
                                                                                •	1:1 therapy with child (during weeks 3-12)
All Speech & Language Services are with a regulated Speech                      •	1:1 parent/caregiver training
and Language Pathologist (SLP). Speech & Language services                      •	Summary report
may be eligible for billing to private insurance providers.                     •	Available in-person or virtually
                                                                  DATE           Flexible
Speech and Language Assessment                                    COST           1:1 Building Skills ($2700 for 2 hours/week
                                                                                 for 12 weeks) or 1:1 Reducing Challenging
This assessment is used to evaluate a child’s speech, language                   Behaviours ($4500 for 4 hours/week for 12
and social communication needs and strengths. The speech-                        weeks). Assessment and observation are
language pathologist will provide strategies and/or make                         included in the Service Package. Additional
recommendations regarding treatment and provide a written                        treatment hours are available (cost varies
report for parents/caregivers that can inform educational and                    depending upon service goal).
treatment planning.
LEVEL          A, B, C
INCLUDES      •	Clinical interview                               Group Clinical Programs
              • Observation
              •	Completion of standardized testing and
                 questionnaires as appropriate
                                                                  Pivotal Response Training
              •	Feedback session
                                                                  Pivotal Response Training (PRT) is an evidence-based
              • Written report
                                                                  behavioural treatment for children with autism. This program
              •	Available in-person or virtually
                                                                  involves child and parent participation. You will learn
DATE           Flexible                                           strategies that increase your child’s social communication
                                                                  skills using one of the pivotal areas including motivation,
COST           $380
                                                                  responsivity to mulitiple cues, self-management, or self-
                                                                  initiations. A screening will be completed to determine
                                                                  which area of PRT is appropriate for your child, or to provide
1:1 Speech Therapy                                                recommendations for other services.
                                                                  LEVEL          Motivation to Talk with Others: Levels A and B
Following an assessment with a speech-language pathologist,                      Responding to a Variety of Cues: Levels A and B
this in-clinic therapy session offers practical strategies to                    Self-Managing Behaviour: Levels B and C
promote your child’s speech and language development                             Initiating Conversations with Others: Levels B
and social interactions. You will learn to engage your child in                  and C
motivating, enjoyable activities while using these strategies.
Resources and materials will be provided to support practice      INCLUDES      •	2 2-hour group sessions for parents/
at home.                                                                            caregivers
                                                                                •	4 individualized virtual consultations
LEVEL          B, C
                                                                  DATE           Start dates and times are individualize
INCLUDES      •	1 hour 1:1 speech therapy session with child
                  and caregiver                                   COST           No cost
              •	Resources and materials to support practice
                  at home
              * 	Assessment to be completed with a
                  Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre SLP
                  prior to treatment session
              • Available in-person or virtually
DATE           Flexible
COST           $165
                                                                                                                                 19
Play Date Fun                                                      P.A. Day Pizza Party
Let’s play! Play is a vital skill for all children and provides    Make your own pizza at home and join our virtual pizza party.
opportunities for socializing and exploring imagination.           Parent/caregiver assistance will be required.
After modeling play skills and encouraging children to
                                                                   LEVEL           A, B, C
play together, therapists will lead and encourage parents
to facilitate play between peers. By the end of the group          INCLUDES       • 1 hour virtual session
families will be encouraged to set up a virtual play date with
                                                                   DATE            Friday, January 29 from 12:00 -1:00 p.m.
a peer in the group. Facilitated by Autism Therapists with
supervision from a Clinical Supervisor.                            COST            No cost
LEVEL          A, B, C
INCLUDES       •	6 45-minute virtual sessions at a 4:1 ratio     Virtual March Break Travels
               •	Available virtually
DATE           Tuesdays from 6:00-6:45 p.m. starting on            Let’s travel the world! Jump aboard our virtual airplane and
               January 12                                          discover the wonders of the world. Have you ever wanted
                                                                   to see the pyramids? Or swim in the deep blue sea? Fly to
COST            No cost                                            outerspace? Maybe you’re missing seeing the animals at
                                                                   the zoo? Together with Autism Therapists, your child will
                                                                   participate in virtual field trips and activities that celebrate
Try Something New                                                  locations all around the globe. Let us take you on your March
                                                                   Break vacation while safe at home.
A weekly group to provide your child with an opportunity to
                                                                   LEVEL           A, B, C
participate in a variety of different activities. Each week will
focus on a different hobby. Activities will be led by Autism       INCLUDES       • Daily 1 hour virtual sessions
Therapists using step by step instructions to practice fine                       •	Sign up for one, several or all sessions.
motor skills, following instructions and getting creative in a                    • Daily themes and times to be determined
casual environment. Activities may include drawing, painting,
                                                                   DATE            Monday, March 15 to Friday, March 19
cooking, science, baking, and exercise. Facilitated by Autism
Therapists with supervision from a Clinical Supervisor.                            Times to be determined

LEVEL                                                              COST            No cost
                B, C
INCLUDES       •	8 45-minute virtual sessions at a 4:1 ratio
               •	Available virtually
DATE           Wednesdays from 4:30-5:15 p.m. starting
               January 20
COST            No cost

Group Recreational Programs
Let’s Get Movin’!
Let’s move our bodies! This gross motor group has different
themes for each week. Children participate in physical
movement such as balancing, stretching, and exercising in a
fun way to get active. Imitation skills are required or parent/
caregiver assistance may be needed.
LEVEL          A, B, C
INCLUDES       • Weekly 45-minute virtual sessions at an
                 8:1 ratio
               • Sign up for one, several or all sessions.
DATE           Mondays from 1:00-1:45 p.m. starting
               January 11
COST            No cost

20      McMasterChildrensHospital.ca/Autism
Parent and Caregiver                                            Overview of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Education and Training                                          This workshop provides an overview of the characteristics of
                                                                Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) including how children/youth
                                                                with autism often perceive the world around them differently.
Triple P Stepping Stones                                        Participants are provided with information about what can
This 9-week program for parents and caregivers of children      be challenging for children with ASD, as well as some helpful
with autism teaches positive, proactive strategies to           strategies and resources.
manage behaviours in a constructive way, encourage your         LEVEL           A, B, C
child’s development, and cope with difficult situations.
Recommended for parents and caregivers new to their child’s     INCLUDES       • 2-hour virtual workshop
diagnosis.                                                      DATE           Thursday, February 25 from 12:00-2:00 p.m.
LEVEL          A, B, C                                          COST            No cost
INCLUDES       •	6 2-hour group sessions for parents/
                  caregivers
               •	3 follow-up individualized consultations
                                                                Managing Funds
               •	Available in person or virtually, dependent   Join us for information about managing funds received and
                  upon COVID-19 health restrictions at that     the reconciliation process for the Direct Funding Option
                  time.                                         (DFO), Childhood Budget, and Interim One Time Funding. This
                                                                workshop is facilitated by a Service Navigator from Autism
DATE           Mondays from 6:00-8:00 p.m. starting
                                                                Ontario and a Direct Funding Accounts Coordinator from the
               January 18
                                                                McMaster Children’s Hospital Autism Program. We will share
               Wednesdays from 1:00-3:00 p.m. starting
                                                                helpful templates for tracking funds received and invoices.
               January 20
                                                                Questions related to eligible and ineligible expenses and the
COST           No cost                                          reconciliation process will be answered. The workshop is
                                                                designed for new funding recipients as well as families already
                                                                receiving funding. Bring any questions and if we are not able
Coffee and Connecting                                           to answer them, we will find the answer for you.
Take a break for yourself to connect with other parents and     LEVEL           A, B, C
caregivers who also have a child with autism. This informal
social time provides an opportunity to meet others, learn,      INCLUDES       • 2-hour virtual workshop
and exchange information. Facilitated by a Family Service       DATE           Tuesday, January 19 from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Coordinator.                                                                   Thursday, March 4 from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
LEVEL          A, B, C                                          COST            No cost
INCLUDES       •	30 min. virtual get-together
               •	Sign up for one, several, or all sessions
                                                                Assistance with Funding Applications
DATE           Tuesdays from 6:00-6:30pm starting on
                                                                Filling out funding applications can be difficult. This workshop
               January 12
                                                                provides a step-by-step review of completing a variety
               Fridays from 9:30-10:00am starting
                                                                of funding applications. Examples of applications to be
               January 15
                                                                reviewed are Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities,
COST           No cost                                          Special Services at Home, Disability Tax Credit, Easter Seals
                                                                Incontinience Grant, Access to Entertainment Card, and
                                                                Accessible Parking Pass.
Next Steps                                                      LEVEL           A, B, C
The days and months after a diagnosis of autism can be          INCLUDES       • 2-hour virtual workshop
overwhelming. This workshop provides a step-by-step                            • 1 follow-up individualized consultation
checklist for parents, an overview of community services and
funding options, and an opportunity to ask specific questions   DATE           Thursday, January 21 from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
about supports for your child.                                                 Thursday, March 11 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

LEVEL          A, B, C                                          COST            No cost

INCLUDES       • 2-hour virtual workshop
               • 1 follow-up individualized consultation
DATE           Tuesday, January 26 from 12:30-2:30 p.m.
               Tuesday, March 23 from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
COST           No cost

                                            For more information or to register for a service, please contact
                                            (905) 521-2100 ext. 78972 or email at autismprogram@hhsc.ca.                       21
22   McMasterChildrensHospital.ca/Autism
Toilet Training                                                      Understanding Challenging Behaviour
During this workshop, you will learn to recognize when               This two-part workshop provides parents and caregivers
children are ready to begin toilet training and identify             with the skills to begin developing an intervention plan for
patterns in current toileting behaviours. Various toilet             challenging behaviour. In part one, you will learn to identify
training strategies based on Applied Behaviour Analysis              and collect data to better understand a behaviour. In part
(ABA) principles will be covered. After participating in             two, we will review your data and discuss strategies to reduce
this workshop, you will be offered up to three 1:1 virtual           challenging behaviour. This workshop will be facilitated by
appointments to individualize the information for you and            a Behaviour Therapist who is a Board Certified Behaviour
your family.                                                         Analyst. Following participation in Part 2 of the workshop, you
                                                                     will be offered a 1:1 virtual appointment to individualize the
LEVEL        A, B, C
                                                                     information for you and your family.
INCLUDES • 2-hour virtual workshop
                                                                     LEVEL          A, B, C
         • Follow-up individualized consultation
                                                                     INCLUDES       • 2 2-hour virtual workshop
DATE         Wednesday, January 13 from 9:30-11:30 a.m.
                                                                                    • 1 follow-up individualized consultation
             Wednesday, February 24 from 9:30-11:30 a.m.
                                                                     DATE           Part 1: Friday, January 15 from 10:00 a.m.-
COST         No cost
                                                                                    12:00 p.m.;
                                                                                    Part 2: Friday, January 22 from 10:00 a.m.-
Teaching a New Skill                                                                12:00 p.m.;
                                                                                    Part 1: Friday, February 19 from 10:00 a.m.-
This workshop helps caregivers learn Applied Behaviour                              12:00 p.m.;
Analysis (ABA) strategies for teaching a new skill. Examples                        Part 2: Friday, February 26 from 10:00 a.m.-
of skills include: organization and homework, daily chores,                         12:00 p.m.;
hygiene, or dressing. After participating in this workshop, you                     Part 1: Friday, March 19 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00
will be offered a 1:1 virtual appointment to individualize the                      p.m.;
information for you and your family.                                                Part 2: Friday, March 26 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00
LEVEL           A, B, C                                                             p.m.

INCLUDES       • 2-hour virtual workshop                             COST            No cost
               • 1 follow-up individualized consultation
DATE            Thursday, February 11 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m      Virtual Learning
COST            No cost                                              Due to the pandemic, many students are currently
                                                                     receiving their education through virtual learning
                                                                     classrooms. For children/youth with autism, this method of
Desensitization: How to Make Difficult
                                                                     instruction can be particularly challenging. This workshop
Events Easier                                                        provides an overview of the possible components of
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a lot of changes for           remote learning and how to set your child/youth up for
parents and their children. This workshop focuses on making          success for each one, using the principles of Applied
activities, like wearing a mask, getting a haircut, washing hands,   Behaviour Analysis.
or going to the store, more seamless for the entire family. You      LEVEL          A, B, C
will learn strategies to help reduce your child’s challenging
behaviour during these activities, such as understanding             INCLUDES       • 2-hour virtual workshop
how to develop a gradual approach to increase your child’s                          • 1 follow-up individualized consultation
tolerance of these activities and situations. This workshop is       DATE           Tuesday, January 19 from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
facilitated by a Behaviour Therapist who is a Board Certified                       Tuesday, February 16 from 2:00-4:00 p.m.
Behaviour Analyst. After participating in this workshop, you                        Tuesday, March 30 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
will be offered a 1:1 virtual appointment to individualize the
information for you and your family.                                 COST            No cost
LEVEL           A, B, C
INCLUDES       • 2-hour virtual workshop
                                                                     Structured Independent Learning at Home
               • 1 follow-up individualized consultation             Structured teaching is a set of teaching techniques that
DATE                                                                 enhances your child’s learning and independence. This
                Wednesday, February 10 from 6:30-8:00 p.m.
                                                                     workshop will introduce ways that you can arrange your home
COST            No cost                                              environment and use familiar toys and materials to encourage
                                                                     play skills and daily routines, such as getting ready for school
                                                                     and completing homework. Structured teaching sets your
                                                                     child up for success by creating a learning environment that
                                                                     promotes greater independence.

                                                                     LEVEL       A, B, C
                                                                     INCLUDES • 2-hour virtual workshop
                                                                              • 1 follow-up individualized consultation
                                                                     DATE        Tuesday, February 23 from 12:00-2:00 p.m.
                                                                     COST         No cost

                                            For more information or to register for a service, please contact
                                            (905) 521-2100 ext. 78972 or email at autismprogram@hhsc.ca.                           23
Grade 4 to 8

Consultation                                                        Psychological Services
Service Planning Consultation                                       All Psychological Services are with a Ph.D. level Psychologist.
                                                                    Psychological Services may be eligible for billing to private
Not sure where to begin? During your consultation with one          insurance providers.
of our expert program staff, we will help identify your child’s
needs and strengths, and discuss your goals as a family. Service    Psychological Consultation
recommendations will be made to help you achieve success.
                                                                    All psychological services begin with a psychological
LEVEL           A, B, C                                             consultation appointment. These consultations provide
INCLUDES       • 1-hour appointment                                 the opportunity to discuss concerns related to your child’s
               • Available in-person or virtually                   development, learning, behaviour, or social-emotional
                                                                    functioning. The psychologist will provide strategies and/
DATE            Flexible                                            or make service recommendations, including whether a
COST            No cost                                             psychological assessment or treatment is recommended.
                                                                    LEVEL           A, B, C
                                                                    INCLUDES        • 1-hour appointment
Resource Consultation                                                               • Available in-person or virtually

Our expert program staff will discuss resources and supports        DATE             Flexible
available in the community and/or help you complete funding         COST             No cost
forms.
LEVEL           A, B, C
INCLUDES       • 1-hour appointment                                 Psychological Assessment
               • Available in-person or virtually
                                                                    We offer different types of psychological assessments,
DATE            Flexible                                            depending upon the needs of your child. They include:
COST            No cost                                             Psychoeducational, Developmental, Diagnostic, and Cognitive
                                                                    & Adaptive. Various areas of functioning are evaluated and the
                                                                    assessment may result in a diagnosis, such as an intellectual
                                                                    disability, learning disability, or anxiety disorder. The assessment
Clinic Appointment                                                  will identify areas of strength and need and the report can be
                                                                    used to help inform educational and treatment planning, as well
Meet with a clinician to discuss a specific skill you’d like your   as help you access funding and resources in your community.
child to develop or address a concern about your child’s
behaviour. You will receive individualized tips and strategies      LEVEL           A, B, C
for building skills and reducing challenging behaviours.            INCLUDES        •	Clinical interview
LEVEL           A, B, C                                                             •	Observation
                                                                                    •	Completion of standardized testing and
INCLUDES       • 1-hour appointment                                                    questionnaires
               • Available in-person or virtually                                   • Feedback session
DATE            Flexible                                                            •	Written report
                                                                                    •	Available in-person or virtually
COST            No cost
                                                                    DATE             Flexible
                                                                    COST            Varies depending upon type of assessment
                                                                                    completed, starting at $1,500

24      McMasterChildrensHospital.ca/Autism
1:1 Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
(CBT)
                                                                Group Clinical Programs
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-
based psychological intervention that is goal-oriented and
                                                                Pivotal Response Training
short-term. The focus of CBT is to challenge and change
                                                                Pivotal Response Training (PRT) is an evidence-based
unhelpful thoughts, behaviours, and feelings, and to develop
                                                                behavioural treatment for children with autism. This program
coping skills and strategies in order to help improve overall
                                                                involves child and parent participation. You will learn
functioning and quality of life.
                                                                strategies that increase your child’s social communication
LEVEL          C                                                skills using one of the pivotal areas including motivation,
                                                                responsivity to mulitiple cues, self-management, or self-
INCLUDES      •	1-hour therapy session
                                                                initiations. A screening will be completed to determine
                 *10-14 sessions are typically recommended
                                                                which area of PRT is appropriate for your child, or to provide
              • Available in-person or virtually
                                                                recommendations for other services.
DATE           Flexible
                                                                LEVEL           Motivation to Talk with Others: Levels A and B
COST           $225                                                             Responding to a Variety of Cues: Levels A and B
                                                                                Self-Managing Behaviour: Levels B and C
                                                                                Initiating Conversations with Others: Levels B
                                                                                and C
Applied Behaviour Analysis                                      INCLUDES       •	2 2-hour group sessions for parents/
(ABA)                                                                              caregivers
                                                                               •	4 individualized virtual consultations
                                                                DATE            Start dates and times are individualized.
1:1 ABA Therapy                                                 COST            No cost
All 1:1 ABA therapy begins with a comprehensive assessment
and individualized behaviour plan to meet your child’s
needs. Program plans can focus on building skills, like         Let’s Hang Out!
communication, toileting and play, or reducing challenging
behaviours, like yelling, aggression, and self-injury. Skill    Let’s Hang Out is designed to build everyday skills such as:
building programs are provided by Autism Therapists and         social skills (initiating and responding to greetings, basic
behaviour reduction programs are provided by Behaviour          conversations, interactive play, and sharing), communication
Therapists who are Board Certified Behaviour Analysts. All      skills (requesting, following instructions in a group setting,
programming is overseen by a Clinical Supervisor.               using full sentences), and daily living skills (washing hands
                                                                and preparing a snack). The program curriculum incorporates
LEVEL          A, B, C                                          the use of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) principles and
INCLUDES      •	Assessment (during weeks 1 & 2)                teaches social skills using Behavioural Skills Training (i.e.
              •	Behaviour plan                                 instruction, modeling, rehearsal, and feedback). Facilitated by
              •	1:1 therapy with child (during weeks 3-12)     Autism Therapists with supervision from a Clinical Supervisor.
              •	1:1 parent/caregiver training                  LEVEL           B, C
              •	Summary report
              •	Available in-person or virtually               INCLUDES       •	8 1.5-hour virtual sessions at a 4:1 ratio
                                                                               •	Available virtually
DATE           Flexible
                                                                DATE           Thursdays from 3:30-5:00 p.m. starting
COST           1:1 Building Skills ($2700 for 2 hours/week                     February 4
               for 12 weeks) or 1:1 Reducing Challenging
               Behaviours ($4500 for 4 hours/week for 12        COST            No cost
               weeks). Assessment and observation are
               included in the Service Package. Additional
               treatment hours are available (cost varies       Children’s Friendship Training
               depending upon service goal).
                                                                Children’s Friendship Training (CFT) is a group-based
                                                                program for kids 8-12 years old. Participants learn and
                                                                develop the skills needed to make and keep friends through
                                                                role playing and activities. Parents/caregivers learn strategies
                                                                to support their children as they develop these skills.
                                                                Facilitated by Autism Therapists with supervision from a
                                                                Clinical Supervisor.
                                                                LEVEL          C
                                                                INCLUDES       •	12 1.5-hour child group sessions at a 6:1
                                                                                   ratio; run concurrently with 12 1.5-hour
                                                                                   parent group sessions
                                                                               •	Available in person or virtually, dependent
                                                                                   upon COVID-19 health restrictions at the time.
                                                                DATE           Tuesdays from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. starting
                                                                               January 12
                                                                COST            No cost

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