EN 
FR We offer numerous supportive resources for families.
Caregivers Connecting
Virtual Family Support for Caregivers
York Support Services, Family Peer Mentor Program is hosting virtual family support drop-ins for family caregivers who are caring for an adult or child with a developmental disability. A new topic will be covered at each session.
Join us for an opportunity to share your story and connect with others going through the same experiences in a safe and non-judgmental space.
The virtual family support drop-ins offer encouragement for you to:
- share your experience.
- increase your capacity for resiliency.
- learn to manage your stress.
- build a more meaningful life.
These sessions are for parents and caregivers of an adult or child with a developmental disability or autism.
Wednesday, September 15, 2021
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Wednesday, October, 15, 2021
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
This workshop is free and will be offered virtually. Details provided upon registration.
For questions or more information contact Sherry Summers at 905-898-6455 ext. 2213 or via email ssummers@yssn.ca
Caregiver Workshops
Fireside Chat with Graeme Treeby
Join us for a fireside conversation with Graeme Treeby. As a parent of a child with a disability and member of the Bright Futures team with over 30 years of experience we will be speaking with Graeme on his personal experience. Graeme will discuss what he has recommend for families and what he himself has done. You will have the ability to ask your own questions to Graeme and the Bright Futures Team!
Details:
Wednesday, September 22, 2021
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
This workshop is free and will be offered virtually. Details provided upon registration.
Healthy Hints for Improved Sleep 
No matter your age, sleep is a vital, often neglected, component of every person’s overall health and well-being. Did you know that when you sleep your body repairs, detoxes, makes hormones and more? Learn healthy hints for improved sleep.
Details:
Wednesday, October 6, 2021
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
This workshop is free and will be offered virtually. Details provided upon registration.
Caregiver Mindfulness Sessions
Join us for virtual mindfulness sessions that will teach you how to reduce stress, increase resiliency, improve relationships and regulate emotions. Core concepts of mindfulness will be explored through meditation and mindful exercises. Everyone is welcome.
Details
This workshop is free and will be offered virtually. Details provided upon registration.
Stay tuned for upcoming dates
Ontario Autism Program Workshops
These workshops are for families with children up to age 17 with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder and are registered with the Ontario Autism Program.
If you have a child with autism and need help to register with the Ontario Autism Program (OAP) please call YSSN at 905-898-6455 ext. 2574 to request an appointment with an OAP support worker.
Successful Strategies for Back to School
Starting a new school year can be daunting for the whole family. Learn tips/tricks to reduce stress and manage anxiety.
Details:
Wednesday, September 15, 2021
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
For more information, email sbonerath@yssn.ca and nmcclinton@yssn.ca.
Autism 101 for Grandparents 
Grandparents are an important part of the family support system. Learn more about autism and how you can provide support to your family.
Details:
Thursday, September 16, 2021
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
For more information, email aiqbal@hotmail.ca and nkreplin@yssn.ca
or
Monday, September 20, 2021
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
For more information, email, sbonerath@yssn.ca and nmcclinton@yssn.ca
How to Create a Strong Support Team 
Your child’s team includes, educators, therapists, consultants etc. Learn how to create a strong team to suit your families’ unique needs for now and into the future.
Details:
Thursday, September 23, 2021
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
For more information, email aiqbal@hotmail.ca and nkreplin@yssn.ca
or
Monday, September 27, 2021
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
For more information, email sbonerath@yssn.ca and nmcclinton@yssn.ca.
First 100 Days after Diagnosis 
Where to start? Learn how to prioritize and reduce stress as you learn what to do and anticipate after receiving a diagnosis of Autism (ASD).
Details:
Wednesday, October, 7, 2021
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Essentials for Independence (Connexmatch) 
Learn how develop independent skills based on your child’s unique learning style and needs.
Details:
Wednesday, October, 13, 2021
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Transition & Funding Supports 
Learn about different funding options available to families with children with ASD and other DD.
Details:
Thursday, October, 14, 2021
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Monday, October 18, 2021
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Caregiver Burnout and Respite
Learn about how you can recognize and support burnout and access respite support.
Details
This workshop is free and will be offered virtually. Details provided upon registration.
Stay tuned for upcoming dates