FAQ
Q: Does my child need to have a diagnosis of autism to attend the programs?
A: Absolutely not! Many of the children at Kids CAN do have a diagnosis of autism, PDD or Asperger’s Syndrome, however we also serve children with other related disorders and disabilities such as Global Learning Delays, ADHD, Dyslexia and Cerebral Palsy.
Q: What if my child does not have any diagnosis at all, but could still benefit from the programs?
A: Many children can benefit from social skills learning opportunities or additional academic support. No diagnosis is required to receive services from Kids CAN and we encourage you to inquire about how we can help your child reach their fullest potential!
Q: Are there any funding options available for parents?
A: There are a variety of funding programs that can be used towards the programs at Kids CAN. The following is a list of the funding that is accepted. Links to application forms can be found on our links page. If you receive an alternative type of funding please inquire with us.
- Special Services At Home (SSAH)
- Community Living Summer & March Break Camp funding
- Jennifer Ashleigh Foundation
- President’s Choice Children’s Charity
- IBI Direct Funding Option (DFO)- approved on a case by case basis.
Q: Do you offer year-round programs?
A: Yes! Kids CAN offers programs throughout the school year from September – June and Summer Camp during July and August.
Q: My child needs a full-time program to meet the requirements of his government funded IBI. Which program should I register for?
A: Our Full time Transition Program is based on 26 hrs/week of therapy. Please see “Transition Program” under our “Programs” page for details.
Q: Does Kids CAN offer full time school?
A: Kids CAN is a member of the Ontario Federation of Independent Schools and expanded in 2009 to offer full time school from Preschool – Grade 6. Our separate school program is known as Oakwood Academy. If you are interested in more information about our school program, please contact us to arrange an appointment to visit and learn more about the program that is right of your child.
Q: Is taking my child out of mainstream school a good idea?
A: We understand that leaving your current school might seem like a big change and we work to ensure that the transition between settings is smooth for both students and parents. Kids CAN & Oakwood Academy strive to maintain open lines of communication between all teachers and therapists in a child’s life and we are ready to build an educational plan that will build on the skills your child has already achieved in their current educational setting. You will be surprised at how quickly your child settles in and soon enough you will be seeing the positive gains your child is making in the tailored environment.
Q: What about if I want to send my child back to a mainstream school?
A: Every child’s journey at Kids CAN & Oakwood Academy is different. Some children come to school for a year or two to boost their academic and social skills and prepare them for entry into a mainstream classroom. Other students flourish in the specialized environment and will stay with us until grade 6, at which point we will work with parents to find a suitable educational setting to transition to.