CHILDREN SERVICES

Autism & Asperger’s Kids’ Groups
Through structured play, physical activity, music and art we support children in an engaging social environment. By feeling safe and understood, children of all ages are allowed to experience the value of positive social interaction.

As children are allowed to investigate what it means to be “on the spectrum”, they are provided the tools and coping skills to deal with the frustrations presented by their differences and celebrate their unique strengths.

All groups follow a structured curriculum and incorporate stimulating and calming movements breaks.



Personal Program Plans
Each individual will be assessed through a home visit and a personal, one-on-one interview with a Program Coordinator. By completing a thorough functional analysis of strengths and weaknesses in daily living, careful and beneficial placement of aides, support workers, services and programs can be completed. Services are provided to build skills and support the entire family.






Triple P - Positive Parenting Program

What is Stepping Stones Triple P?
The Stepping Stones Triple Program has been developed for parents with a child with a developmental disability.  It helps parents manage misbehaviour and prevent problems from occuring in the first place.

How will Stepping Stones Triple P benefit my family?
Stepping Stones works by giving parents the skills to raise confident, healthy children and to build stronger family relationships.

Stepping Stones Triple P Courses offered at Next Step:
Courses will be offered in Medicine Hat and Brooks for families who have a child with a disability.  We offer Standard Stepping Stones, which is completed over a 10 week period in private with your Program Coordinator. We also offer Group Stepping Stones, which is completed over 9 weeks with your Program Coordinator and a small group of parents.  Funding options are available.

For more information please contact Jennifer Booth in Brooks at 403-501-5199 or Marina Lynch in Medicine Hat at 403-527-4999

 

Workshops Available 2011
Next Step is offering workshops to provide valuable information about disabilites, motivation and reinforcement for employees and families in Medicine Hat and Brooks. For more information contact Next Step Office.



Kids on Adventure
Kids on Adventure is a fun and exciting social skills groups offered at Next Step. The goal is to increase functional social skills that your child can use in everday social settings, as well as an environment where they can feel safe and accepted.  Our group focuses on reinforcing positive behaviors and introducing your child to new activities and environments.  Each session is about an hour long and is supervised by our trained and caring Team Leaders.  They focus on teaching your child new skills, as well as helping generalize already learned and mastered skills.  Currently, every child has a 1:1 aide who ensures that your child has support and guidance through each adventure.  Our social skills group currently has children from age 5 to 9 years old. If you are interested in joining our adventure, please contact the office. You do not need to be a Next Step client to join.  Please call Marina for details at  403- 527-4999 ext 108.



Support Home
If needed to achieve program goals, an individual with a developmental disability may be placed in a supported home shared by a family.



Community Supports
To build on program goals and achievements, community support workers may be assigned to assist a child in developing community and life skills. Work will be completed and monitored according to the individual’s unique program plan.



Behavioral & Developmental Support
Consideration of sibling issues, family dynamics, sensory issues and health concerns will be incorporated through ongoing work to improve negative behaviors and strengthen positive behaviors.
 


Respite Support
Supports that provide a break for primary caregivers on a temporary basis. Respite will be provided in addition to other supports already in place.



Natural Supports
Through candid conversation and laughter, families / caregivers are supported and encouraged to create their own ‘natural supports.’



ASD Parent Advocacy Group
Empowering parents through knowledge, awareness and connection, helps ensure the most supportive environment is provided for our children and encourages their full growth potential.



For more information:
Phone: (403) 527-4999
Fax: (403) 529-5970
E-mail: admin@nextstepltd.ca