With school on the horizon, Five Counties Children’s Centre wants to support families who have kids with disabilities or exceptionalities starting class for the first time.
The Centre is hosting Ready for School Family Info Fairs at its sites in Peterborough (Aug. 20), Cobourg (Aug. 21) and Lindsay (Aug. 22).
The aim is to ease the transition to school for kids starting JK, SK or Grade 1, making it less worrisome for families whose children may face greater challenges due to physical, developmental or communication needs.
“Any time a child starts school is a big deal for families, but it can be even more nerve-wracking for parents and caregivers whose child has a disability or exceptionality,” says event organizer Hayley Hodges, the Client and Family Engagement Lead at Five Counties. “We want to help reduce that anxiety for kids and parents by inviting families to attend our Ready for School events.”
Each of the Ready for School events run from 4-6:30 pm. Advance registration is required, and child care will be available. Attendees will be able to:
Gain knowledge and experience about going to school for the first time.
Hear from other parents whose kids with disabilities or exceptionalities have successfully made the transition to school.
Ask questions of Five Counties clinicians and other professionals who support students.
Learn how to advocate for their child, while learning about school-based resources to support them.
Access resources, including the 6F’s of Child Development that can help introduce a child with unique needs to their new school setting.
Get on board a school bus to see what the ride entails.
Enjoy snack and welcome packages, including tools, toys and tips.
Hodges says the Ready for School events organized by Five Counties are not meant to duplicate other school-preparation events. “Our focus at Five Counties is to help kids and youth with disabilities and exceptionalities build their abilities for life,” she notes. “One of the biggest life-changing events a child goes through is starting school, so it makes sense for Five Counties to be there for families who may need extra help and reassurance at this time. We hope families will see value in this and join us!”
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