Additional autism services and supports for Durham children

OSHAWA, ON. - Hundreds of children and youth with autism in Durham Region will now have access to additional services and supports.

Grandview Children's Centre has been selected as the lead agency for the Durham Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)-based Services and has partnered with Lake Ridge Community Support Services and Resources for Exceptional Children and Youth – Durham Region for the delivery of these services and supports, and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) for evaluation purposes.

“This is an exciting time for Grandview Children’s Centre, as we are able to play an integral role in children and youth with autism now having access to additional services in the region. We anticipate that we will commence service with the first group within a couple of weeks,” said Lorraine Sunstrum-Mann, executive director Grandview Children’s Centre.

Launched August 4, the program has already seen close to 400 families making enquiries with more than 320 initiating the process to access service.

This initiative funded through the Ministry of Children and Youth Services is available to all children and youth from birth to 17 years of age (up to their 18^th birthday) with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and their families.

ABA is based on scientific principles of learning and behaviour. It reinforces positive behaviours, reduces problematic ones and helps kids with ASD build the skills they need to learn and be more independent. It will focus on areas such as communication – for example- understanding language, using gestures and starting conversations; social/interpersonal and daily living skills; as well as behaviour management - addressing behaviour that may interfere with a child’s learning thus helping them to manage better in school.

“We are thrilled to be a partner on this very worthwhile project,” said Dr. Meghann Lloyd, assistant professor, UOIT and research associate, Grandview Children’s Centre. “This funding will enable us to conduct innovative research and evaluation to inform clinical practice, support our community and offer our students a unique opportunity to gain valuable hands-on research experience.”

The ABA program will be offered to target a child’s highest area of priority over a two to six month period, typically two to four hours per week.

In Durham Region, Grandview Children’s Centre will accept referrals from parents/caregivers as well as a health professional. Persons interested in applying for this program, are invited to contact the ABA Intake line at Grandview Children’s Centre: 905.728.1673 ext. 2248 or 1.800.304.6180 ext. 2248. 

Programs include a licensed child care centre, consultation/case management services, Enhanced Staffing to support inclusion in child care centres, service planning for complex clients through co-ordination services for children and youth, mental health funding and supports, a resource library, multi-sensory room, family networking opportunities, and community development activities. The focus of all programs is to support the inclusion of children and youth into their community, to help children and youth reach their full potential, and to build community capacity. Programs are funded through the Ministry of Children and Youth Services and the Regional Municipality of Durham. 

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Media contacts:

Melissa Levy
Communications and Marketing
University of Ontario Institute of Technology
905.721.8668 ext. 2513
289.928.0268 (cell)
melissa.levy@uoit.ca 

Shernette Muccuth Henry
Grandview Children’s Foundation
Marketing and Communications
905.728.1673 ext. 2274
shernette.muccuth-henry@grtc.ca 

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