Ontario Autism Program, Caregiver-Mediated Early Years Programs available in Durham Region

June 25, 2021

Eligible families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) will begin receiving invitations to the Ontario Autism Program (OAP) Caregiver-Mediated Early Years Programs on June 28, 2021.

Today, the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) unveiled the agencies offering caregiver-mediated programs in Ontario. In Durham Region, the successful agencies include Grandview Kids, Lake Ridge Community Support Services and The Regional Municipality of Durham. Along with Resources for Exceptional Children and Youth, these agencies make up the Ontario Autism Program, Durham (OAP-D) Partnership.

The OAP-D Partnership will deliver three caregiver-mediated Programs: Social ABCs, Project ImPACT, and The PLAY Project.

Caregiver-mediated early years programs are play-based and child-led. These programs help young children (12 to 48 months of age) learn new skills and meet individualized goals in their natural environments. Programs are delivered by trained professionals who support parents to learn and apply play-based strategies that foster their child’s skill development. Programs are offered for up to six months, with virtual options available during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Programs are offered as part of a needs-based, sustainable and family-centred OAP led by the MCCSS. The MCCSS will directly invite families to participate via written letter. Grandview Kids will oversee the referral and intake process, and families will select their preferred program. Families may only participate in one program at a time at no cost. 

“We are thrilled to partner with Lake Ridge Community Support Services and The Regional Municipality of Durham to support families of young children with Autism. The addition of caregiver-mediated programs means parents will have improved access and support to help their child reach their full potential.”

Lorraine Sunstrum-Mann, CEO, Grandview Kids

For more information on the Ontario Autism Program, Caregiver-Mediated Early Years Programs, visit the Province of Ontario website and our dedicated Caregiver-Mediated Programs page.