Group-based Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) Services

Group-based ABA Services

Summer programs are now open for registration until May 22, 2023! Applications submitted after this date will be considered for our fall programs.

Kinark Autism Services offers group programs for children and teens with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families. These groups support skill development in areas such as social skills, play skills, emotional regulation, communication, and more!

All of our groups:

Are eligible for purchase through Ontario Autism Program (OAP) Core Clinical services funding, Interim One Time Funding (IOTF), and some private insurance providers
Provide engaging activities in a supportive environment, where children and teens can learn and practice skills
Include a parent orientation and/or continued parent training sessions to support the practice of skills at home and in the community
Use evidence-based strategies based on Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)
Are supervised by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Include a summary report of your child/teen’s progress

Participants for our groups are matched based on age, interests, and skills to make the group as fun and successful as possible for everyone.

When you complete the interest form, you will be invited to a free sample group session/meet and greet with our team to see where your child/teen may fit best!

Learn more about our groups by scrolling down or clicking on the links below! Groups are listed by order of recommended ages from young children to teens.

Ready, Set, Play!
First Words
Kids Klub – Conversations
Friendship Boot Camp
PEERS® for Teens Boot Camps (Friendship, Dating, Bully Proofing)

To get started, please complete the interest form.

Complete the Interest Form

Ready, Set, Play! – Social Skills Group

Recommended ages: 2 to 4

Help your child enhance their social and play skills through fun activities with Ready, Set, Play! This program offers:

Interactive, play-based learning with parent and child in a small group format
Opportunity to practice play and social skills with other children
Specific coaching and strategies for parents
Exposure to new toys and ways to play
Fun and interactive circle and story times

Markham

7271 Warden Ave,
Markham ON L3R 5X5

August 8 – 29, 2023
Tuesdays from 10 – 11 am
4 sessions x 1 hours each

Cost: This group is a FREE Foundational Family Services for eligible families registered in the Ontario Autism Program. Additional times, schedules and locations may be available. Please complete the interest form and specify your preferences.

First Words

Recommended ages: 2 to 6

Support the development of your child’s early communication skills using individualized methods with First Words! This group offers:

Interactive, play-based teaching strategies
Opportunities for your child to expand their requesting skills
Teaching ways to communicate without challenging behaviours
Exposure to new toys, people and activities
An assessment of your child’s strengths and needs
Two parent coaching sessions to learn strategies to help your child communicate (one in-person and one virtual group session)

Additional times, schedules and locations may be available. Please complete the First Words interest form and specify your preferences.

Complete the First Words Interest Form

Kids Klub – Conversations

Recommended ages: 4 to 8

Help your child enhance their communication and social skills with Kids Klub! In this group, engaging games and activities will be used to help children learn important social skills to help them when:

Meeting and greeting friends (e.g., being a social detective, finding common interests)
Following instructions from a friend during play
Taking turns with friends during play or activities
Conversation skills (e.g., asking a peer a question, making on-topic comments)

Barrie

10 Murray Street,
Barrie, ON, L4N 2X2

July 17 – July 21, 2023
Monday to Friday from 10 am – 12 pm
5 sessions x 2 hours each
Cost: $750

Oshawa

1521 Simcoe Street North,
Oshawa, ON, L1G 4X8

July 17 – July 21, 2023
Monday to Friday from 10 am – 12 pm
5 sessions x 2 hours each
Cost: $750

Richmond Hill

12960 Yonge Street, Until 10 & 11,
Richmond Hill, ON, L4E 1A8

July 31 – August 4, 2023
Monday to Friday from 10 am – 12 pm
5 sessions x 2 hours each
Cost: $750

Virtual and in-person options available. Fill out an interest form for our groups today!

Friendship Boot Camp

Recommended ages: 7 to 12

Help increase your child’s social and friendship skills with Friendship Boot Camp! In this group, the topics covered will include:

Starting and entering conversations
Maintaining reciprocal conversations
Choosing appropriate friends
Good sportsmanship
Handling disagreements

Virtual

Delivered via secure video conferencing platform

August 14 – August 18, 2023
Monday to Friday from 10 am – 12 pm
5 sessions x 2 hours each
Cost: $600

Barrie

10 Murray Street,
Barrie, ON, L4N 2X2

July 24 – July 28, 2023
Monday to Friday from 10 am – 12 pm
5 sessions x 2 hours each
Cost: $750