You are visiting Durham

Find your Chapter by Map



Printer Friendly Version Printer version



Activities in and around Durham Region
for Individuals with Autism

Print a list of tips for recreation staff from Natural Learning Concepts that may contribute toward making your child's recreation experience a success:
● Top Ten Things You Need to Know About My Child with ASD

Click on the links for detailed information in the following recreation categories:

● art & music therapy:
· Participation House Project (Durham Region)
● camps - day:
· Exceptional Learning Centre (eXL)
· Grandview Children's Centre
· Nova's Ark
· Precious Minds Resource & Learning Centre
· Tutorwiz

● camps - overnight
● entertainment:
· discount movie theatre passes for support workers
● horseback riding (therapeutic)
● sports:
· cheerleading squad, sports leagues, school recess programs, skating, Special Olympics
● travel
● other recreation:
· Grandview Children's Centre
· Inspirational Steps: Durham's Non-competitive Dance & Creative Arts Centre
· Kerry's Place Autism Services
· Sunrise Youth Group
· Tania's Place Activity Centre for Teens & Adults with Special Needs
· Variety Village


Art & Music Therapy

● Participation House Project (Durham Region) – Oshawa
A not for profit organization supporting adult individuals (age 18 -65) with physical and developmental disabilities to lead independent lives and be active members in their community. Offers various programs including Youth-the-Future.

Participation House Programs for ages 18-65:

Art Therapy:
East Durham - Bowmanville
West Durham - Ajax
Central Durham - Whitby
North Durham - Port Perry
Art Therapy Program Application

Music Therapy:
East Durham - Bowmanville
West Durham - Ajax
Central Durham - Oshawa
North Durham - Port Perry
Music Therapy Program Application


Camps - Day

● Exceptional Learning Centre (eXL) – Ajax
Offers summer camp for kids with various academic needs.

● Grandview Children's Centre – Oshawa
Summer Camp 2010 for Children and Youth with Special Needs ages 3 -21. Qualified counsellors, low camper:counsellor ratio, indoor and outdoor activities, social interaction, art, music, sports, games and much, much more. For more information click here

● Inspirational Steps – Whitby
Offers themed half day summer camps starting July 5. Cost is $75 a week, price is for early registrations. Subject to change June 1. For more information or to register call
905-556-0226 or email anamaria@inspirationalsteps.com

● Nova's Ark - Brooklin
Provides specialized camps for children with disabilities that involve outdoor experiences and interaction with a wide range of animals.

● Precious Minds Resource and Learning Centre – North Durham
Hosts day camps throughout the year at various locations in north Durham (Beaverton, Cannington, Sunderland, Port Perry, Uxbridge) for children in Grades 1-6 who need an academic boost, as well as for children ages 5 to 15 with developmental disabilities. Prices vary.
Blaze Summer Camp - Precious Minds' full day support camps focus on your child and their individual needs. Each structured camp features creative theme-based activities including music, art, table tasks, cooking, outdoor time for exercise, games and lots of fresh air. Designed for kids (ages 5-12) and youth (ages 13-18+) with developmental disabilities. Blaze Camp Goals for 2010: To provide a FUN, unique summer camp adventure for kids and youth with developmental disabilities. To support ongoing growth of each camper's full potential with a particular focus on social skills, life skills, personal responsibility to healthy nutrition & fitness and play skill as well as summer respite care. For more information click here


● Tania’s Place Activity Centre for Teens & Adults with Special Needs – Ajax & Oshawa
Hosts several ongoing programs including Summer Day Camp, school holiday, Super Saturday and Saturday Night Dance Socials (for Youth 13-17 years) and programs for Adults 18 years and older who live with a developmental and/or physical disability. Note: Tania's Place activities are high-energy with a minimum of 15-20 participants and may not be suitable for some individuals with autism. Tania's Place requests full disclosure of developmental disabilities and special needs with registration. A personal interview/assessment is conducted for all new clients prior to acceptance of registration. A completed Questionnaire must accompany all registrations

● TRACE(Tyndale Research in Autism and Community Education) Autism Summer Camp for children with ASD, PDD-NOS and Aspergers - Toronto
TRACE is a non-for-profit organization which has been formed to provide seminar and training programs to parents and professionals, conduct research, and offer autism intervention services such as our upcoming social skills summer camps. This August, Tyndale University College will be running a Social Skills Summer Camp for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Undergraduate students and volunteers will participate as staff members in a camp program that promotes social skills and interaction. The camp will run for 4 weeks during August with space for approximately 20 children, ages 5-10 years, per week. The summer is a fantastic time for the children to be learning basic social skills in a fun and engaging day camp environment which will allow them to put their learned skills to practice.

The goals of the program include:
1) Promoting a positive learning environment, through the use of ABA techniques, that caters to the needs of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
2) Learning about and practicing social skills applicable to daily life
3)Giving the children a positive summer camp experience

For more information or to register, click here

● Tutorwiz Education Centre - Ajax and Newmarket location
Tutorwiz Education Centre operates Computer Day Camps during March Break and throughout the months of July (Ajax only) and August (Ajax and Newmarket) for children 6 to 14 years of age, especially suited for those with special needs - LD, ADHD, and Aspergers. Each camp runs from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily. Campers will learn the functions and features of many educational computer programs including: Inspiration/Smart Ideas, WordQ, Kurzweil 3000, WORD and POWERPOINT. They will also learn to operate a computer by voice, create and design computer games and learn the basics of website design. Four new activites for this year include: Creating sophisticated computer games using Game Maker Pro, creating and composing computer music, capturing video and creating a Jeopardy style computer game. For more information or to register, click here, call 905-683-6341 or email don@tutorwiz.com




Camps - Overnight

● Camp Kennebec - Arden
Offers a summer residence program for youth with Learning Disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorders and other behavioural concerns.
Some highlights of Kennebec include:
- 2:1 camper to staff ratio
- over 50 different activities that campers choose from, their days at camp are scheduled by their choices
- mature, highly-skilled and motivated staff
- family budget-planning to offset expenses
- in-home visits
and many more unique aspects of Kennebec.
Click here for more details
Contact:
Tim French, Camp Manager
Camp Kennebec
905-436-3376
905-243-5116 cell
tjccfrench@sympatico.ca

● Camp Kirk - Kirkfield
A residential (overnight) camp for boys and girls 6 to 13 years of age who have Learning Disabilities and/or AD(H)D Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), including those with incontinence or enuresis (bedwetting) difficulties. Our mission is to provide a nurturing, non-competitive and structured environment that allows these children the opportunity to enjoy a residential camping experience and to develop social, emotional and physical skills, thereby raising their self esteem. Camp Kirk is unique in that each and every camper has some form of learning disability. Together, they learn that they are not alone, and that it is possible to focus and build on their strengths and abilities in order to help them become the best that they can be.

● Camp Kodiak - Perry Sound
A unique, integrated, non-competitive program for campers aged 6-18 and include children & teens with and without learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder & Asperger Syndrome. All camp activities are planned with a view to teaching skills, building confidence and improving self-esteem. Teaching is done by skilled instructors who break tasks down into manageable chunks and present them in a logical sequence ensuring success for all campers. Some highlights of Camp Kodiak include academic tutoring, social skills program, professional staff, 2 to 1 camper:staff ratio, small cabin groups, over 50 activities and a leader in training program for campers aged 16 and over.

● Camp Winston – Muskoka
A 5-acre facility located in Kilworthy, Ontario on Sparrow Lake in the beautiful Muskoka Region (a 2 hour drive north of Toronto) operating a residential recreational summer programme for campers with complex neurological disorders, such as Tourette Syndrome, and Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder. Children and teenagers with Autism come to Camp Winston in August. Camp Winston also provides Behaviour Management and Skills Workshops and various weekend retreats.
Staff at Camp Winston believe in creating physically and emotionally safe environments in which campers and workshop participants are nurtured, respected and challenged. Through recreational programmes, staff members attempt to foster self-esteem, age-appropriate independence, decision-making and negotiation skills. Workshops provide a supportive and understanding learning atmosphere in which practical strategies and skills in the area of behaviour management are taught.
The Camp Winston Head Office is located in Richmond Hill.

● Kinark Outdoor Education Centre – Autism Quest Program
Supported residential recreational experiences on weekends and in the summer for children and youth ages 9-15 with high-functioning autism and Asperger's Syndrome.
A number of respite/leisure programs for teens and adults with disabilities/special needs are also available at the Kinark Outdoor Education Centre. Click here for more information.
Click on these links to download detailed information about free programs at the Kinark Outdoor Centre:
- 2010 Autism Quest Program Booklet & Registration Form re: Individual Weekend Respite and Five Day Summer Camp Program
Note: all applications must be received by 5:00pm February 26, 2010 applicants will be notified of their status by mail or email on March 12, 2010
- 2010 Autism Family Weekend Respite Program Booklet & Registration Form
Note: all applications must be received by 5:00pm February 26, 2010 applicants will be notified of their status by mail or email on March 12, 2010

● Kinark Outdoor Education Centre - Haliburton
Leisure programs available.

● Ontario Pioneer Camp - Muskoka
The camp has developed an integrated special needs program that runs at Adventure Camp, Boys’ Camp, and Girls’ Camp all summer long. Camp staff recognize that people with intellectual and physical challenges are just like everyone else—they have the capacity to love, to have fun, to have friends and to know when they are missing out or being treated differently. A 1:1 staff to camper ratio exists and staff will modify the program in whatever way is necessary to allow for inclusion. Each site has an inclusion coordinator who is there to ensure that any child with special needs is having their challenges addressed and to provide support and information for the 1:1 leaders. One of the camp’s core commitments is to pursue authentic relationships where everyone is included.




Entertainment

● Access 2 Entertainment
Acces 2 Entertainment provides free admission (or a significant discount) for support workers accompanying a person with a disability at participating movie theatres across Canada. The person affected by a disability pays regular admission.


Horseback Riding

● Therapeutic Horseback Riding – Ashburn
The Stables at Windreach Farm were developed by paralympian rider Alexander (Sandy) J. Mitchell and designed to be fully accessible to meet the needs of both elite equestrian competitors and pleasure riders with disabilities and/or special needs.

● Wake Robin Farm – Uxbridge
"A small, private riding facility offering personalized riding instruction for children and adults with special needs focussing on individuals with intellectual and cognitive disabilites. The goal of the program is to provide a safe and positive environment for students to experience the joys of horses and horsemanship at a pace that is comfortable for them. The benefits of riding include increased attention span, improved self-esteem and confidence, as well as many physical benefits. Students work 1:1 with an experienced instructor and well-schooled horses to learn about: safety rules, grooming, tacking up, mounting and dismounting, riding skills."
Program includes 8 one hour lessons.
Fee: $40 per lesson. Free 1/2 hour introductory lesson.
Call for more information: 416-526-1298


Sports

● Basketball Program - Pickering
Durham West Special Olympics has launched a Junior Special Olympic Basketball Program to focus on fun, skill development and the opportunity for more social interaction with peers. Begins Tuesday, February 17 to April 7, 2009 at Pineridge High School on Liverpool Road in Pickering from 6:00pm to 7:30pm. Registration fee: $10.00. Equipment required: indoor running shoes, shorts, track pants and t-shirt. For more information, contact Debbie May at 905-686-2538 or risingstarmom@hotmail.com

● Challenge League Sports – Oshawa
Special Sports for Unique Players in Durham Region. Challenge League Sports is a registered charitable organization for children ages 5 and older whose special needs can’t be met by existing sports leagues – all skill levels are welcome. Games in the Challenge League are modified to promote maximum participation, individual development and fun. Season begins at the end of May; fees apply.
Contact: Theresa and Eugene Grabowski 905-571-3379


● Durham Rowing Club - 2010 Adaptive Rowing Program - Port Perry
The Durham Rowing Club is seeking members to join its 2010 adaptive rowing program.
The goal of the program is to make the sport of rowing accessible to people with a broad range of disabilities and special needs.

What is adaptive rowing?
Adaptive rowing is sweep rowing (one oar per rower) or sculling (two oars) for people with physical or intellectual limitations. The basic techniques of adaptive rowing are the same as rowing for the able-bodied. Participants learn the elements of the stroke: drive, recovery, catch angle, oar handling, etc. The general learning curve is comparable to any novice rower and participants experience the same thrill at discovering our sport. For safety reasons adaptive rowers must be able to swim and be able to follow instructions. Registration forms and additional information on the club are available on the club web site www.durhamrowing.com or by contacting John Godden at 905 665-6522 or john.godden@rogers.com. Enrolment is limited so an early registration is advised.

● Durham Dragons Special Hockey - Ajax
A program designed for developmentally challenged individuals of all ages (male and female) that would otherwise not be able to play hockey. Each weekend they experience the thrill and camaraderie that is part of a hockey team: "It's not just hockey ... It's so much more!"

● Fitness Friends
Fitness Friends is a great way to encourage the participation of students with special needs in fitness and sports programs. You may be able to encourage staff at your child's school to implement this program.

● Hockey for Individuals with Special Needs - Newmarket
The Newmarket Night Hawks hockey team play every Saturday throughout the year at 2:00 pm and also participate in tournaments. Teams are divided by ability, not age. New players are always welcome; your child doesn't even need to know how to skate, but full equipment is required.

● Oshawa Skating Club - Oshawa
For a second season, the club is once again offering Come Skate With Us a recreational and instructional skating program for children with special needs ages 5 and over. 50-minute sessions on Wednesday evenings begin at 6:15 pm on September 3, 2008 and run until the end of March, 2009. As long as there is space available, registration will be accepted throughout the season. Fees apply and will be pro-rated accordingly. Contact Debbie Ireland at debbiejireland@sympatico.ca or 905-571-2146 for more details or to register.

● Rising Stars Special Olympics Skating Club - Ajax
Offers a learn-to-skate program, speed skating and competitive figure skating for individuals with special needs. Click here for more details about their Fall/Winter 2007-2008 programs.
Contact:
Cathy Furiano 905-686-2775
Margaret Camposeo 905-723-3579

● Special Olympics Ontario - Durham Region
Pickering Soccer Club Special Olympics Summer Soccer Program for Local Youth with Special Needs. Tuesdays starting May 25 to August 24, 2010. Click here for more details.
Contact: Franco Taverna at 647-284-8872 or girlsrep@pickeringsoccer.ca
List of Special Olympics Programs in Durham Region as of May 1, 2007

● Ultimate Canadian Cheer - Durham Region
Offers a unique opportunity for individuals with special needs of all ages (children, youth & adults): a competitive, traveling cheerleading squad. The practices are held in Pickering with competitions throughout the GTA. The squad is co-ed, and individuals on the autism spectrum are welcome to participate. Contact UCC for more information: 905-839-8822 or info@ultimatecheer.ca


Travel

● Autism on the Seas
Group and individual travel for families and adults with autism. All activities are structured to match each individual's abilities and accommodate people with autism of all ages.

● Disability Travel Card from Easter Seals
Reduced fare tickets allowing individuals with permanent disabilities to travel with an attendant on the lines of Motor Coach Companies that participate in the reduced fare plan, and Via Rail.





Other Recreation

● Grandview Children's Centre - various locations in Durham Region
Recreation Services include programs for children and youth with special needs of all ages (ranging from age 1 1/2 to 21) including Art, Music, Dance, Martial Arts, Swimming Lessons, Sports Night, Digital Photography Club, and much more.
For more information, contact Grandview's Registration Hotline at 905-728-1673 or toll free 1-800-304-6180 x 2247

● Inspirational Steps – Whitby
Durham's non-competitive dance and creative arts centre. From dance to boys’ sports clubs, Inspirational Steps offers a variety of modified as well as integrated recreational programs for students with special needs. Ages infant to adult, classes are small and modified for each child's individuals needs; experience with communication boards, sign language, sensory integration; incorporates the ABA method of teaching.

● Sunrise Youth Group - Whitby
A variety of recreational programs throughout the year for individuals with developmental disabilities age 15 and over, including Wilderness Weekend Camping Trips, Cabin Retreat Weekends, Dances and Special Events, Residential Camping, New Year's Eve Party, day trips, Club Nights and more.

● Tania’s Place Activity Centre for Teens & Adults with Special Needs – Ajax & Oshawa
Hosts several ongoing programs including summer day camp, school holiday, Super Saturday and Saturday Night Dance Socials (for Youth 13-17 years) and programs for Adults 18 years and older who live with a developmental and/or physical disability. Note: Tania's Place activities are high-energy with a minimum of 15-20 participants and may not be suitable for some individuals with autism. Tania's Place requests full disclosure of developmental disabilities and special needs with registration. A personal interview/assessment is conducted for all new clients prior to acceptance of registration. A completed Questionnaire must accompany all registrations.

● Variety – The Children’s Charity & Variety Village - Scarborough
Variety Village, a unique Sports Training and Fitness Centre and the flagship project of Variety – The Children’s Charity, has been recognized as a world leader in offering progressive state-of-the-art programming and services for children and adults of all abilities. The Village has been providing both a facility to enjoy and a place of hope and encouragement for individuals with special needs for close to 25 years.
Approximately 3,000 children and youth with special needs depend on Variety Village for safe, healthy sports programming each week. Variety Village provides essential sport and fitness programs using a proven integrated model that helps individuals of all abilities develop a greater sense of independence, self-worth, confidence and well-being.
With its focus on ability, rather than disability, Variety Village has a reputation among peers and the public as making a real difference in the lives of its members.
Variety Village allows its members to see that they have the ability to do things they thought they could never do. By seeking solutions, rather than focusing on problems, Variety sends everyone a strong message: there is always a way – it simply takes imagination and determination.



Back to top













Disclaimer | Contact Us | Privacy Policy
© 2010 Autism Ontario Autism Society Ontario Charitable #119248789RR0001