Canadian Report on Autism Spectrum Disorder among Children & Youth

Canada.ca released a new report published March 2018 regarding the National Autism Spectrum Disorder Surveillance System. Download the alternative format (PDF format, 837 KB, 42 pages) Organization: Public Health Agency of Canada Published: March 2018 Read it here: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/diseases-conditions/autism-spectrum-disorder-children-youth-canada-2018.html  

Behaviour Management

Behaviour Management DDA

Aggressive, inappropriate, and anti-social behaviours are some of the biggest barriers to inclusion for people with developmental disabilities in school, community, and the workforce. Such behaviours are also very hard on families. All people who demonstrate extreme behaviours, whether they have developmental disabilities or not, challenge inclusion and community acceptance. There are some behaviours that …

Full of Wonder

One year ago, Creekside Child Development Centre was approached by the Development Team at Science World asking if they could have the help of the children to develop a gallery full of wonder and excitement. Of course, we took up the challenge. The gallery was to be designed for children from birth to five years …

Childcare at a Crossroads

When DDA first started providing childcare, children with special needs were rarely welcomed into typical child care programs in the community. In recognition of the importance of enriched services during the early years, DDA filled the void with specially-trained child care workers who worked exclusively with children with special needs. Soon after, we recognized the …

An End of an Era for Waterside CDC

We have all been given the unfortunate news that Waterside will be closing it’s doors for service on May 31 this year.  For many this place is a stepping stone, but for myself it has been my career for over 15 years and so I wanted to share some of it’s history with you. The …

Seven ways to help your nonverbal child speak

This week, researchers published the hopeful findings that, even after age 4, many nonverbal children with autism eventually develop language. For good reason, families, teachers and others want to know how they can promote language development in nonverbal children or teenagers with autism. The good news is that research has produced a number of effective …

Back To School: Anti-Bullying Tips

September is near, which can only mean one thing: BACK TO SCHOOL. For some parents, it may be a big relief as the days of juggling child care, late bedtimes, and busy summer events would finally come to an end, but for others, it can be a sore spot. Bullying is prevalent wherever you go, …

Picky Eaters in Kids with Autism

Eating is a multi-sensory activity. It doesn’t just involve taste, but textures, consistencies, temperature, and the list goes on. Most individuals with autism have sensory problems, making them prone to being a “picky eater”. Studies show that kids with autism are five times more likely to have issues when it comes to mealtime. The good …

Toxic Baby Mats

Play mats are common in homes with young children, but ever wonder how safe it is for your children? Global News investigates further into what gives the play mats its bounce and how it can affect your child. The segment ran a while ago but since play mats are still being sold in Canada, we …

15 Things to Never Say to a Special Needs Parent

We love this article because it reminds us to treat everyone with respect, dignity and equally regardless of where they are from and who they are. Stay informed and educated. Parents with special needs children are the same as parents with typical children, they all strive to provide their children a life filled with endless …