NOTE: Major Funding Update - We are an approved FSCD agency and can now direct bill (starting Feb 2024). More information below (scroll down).
If you are interested in 'saving the dates', we plan to run the teen (13-17) group from August 12-16 inclusive from 10am to noon and the Ages 9-12 group from August 19-23 inclusive from 10am-11:30am. Location is still TBD depending on the availability of Harry Balfour School. Posters to be shared after April 22nd when location is finalized. Email now to hold a spot or fill out the intake form below...
This is very exciting! We have added a new, highly specialized skill training for those that want something more formal and ongoing. We are currently running a teen cycle, and we will offer another series in Fall 2024 (Sept 17/24 start - details below). Details into that PEERS program on the poster button directly below. Scroll down for all the information needed. Inquire/register now - begin the FSCD approval process early!
Social Building/Fun Group for Ages 6-8, Ages 9-12 and Ages 13-17
We are continuing to run 6 session cycles and are open to both new and returning participants. Details below - if you are new to our programming, fill out an intake form (below) or if returning, email us to see about a potential spot!
NOTE: These teen social/fun group sessions are NOT the PEERS sessions.
*NEW!! REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR SPRING 2024 SESSIONS!
DETAILS FOR TEEN, 9-12 and NEW 6-8 GROUPS:
Teen (ages 13-17) Spring Session: FULL
Dates: April 30, May 7, 14, 21, 28 and June 4/2024
Location: Harry Balfour School (GP, AB)
Time: Tuesdays from 7:00-8:30 pm
Cost: $480
Ages 9 - 12 Spring Session: FULL
Dates: April 9, 16, 23, 30, May 7, 14th/2024
Location: Harry Balfour School (GP, AB)
Time: Tuesdays from 5:30-7:00 pm
Cost: $480
NEW!! Ages 6-8 Spring Session:
Dates: April 29, May 6, 13, 27, June 3 and 10th/2024
Location: Harry Balfour School (GP, AB)
Time: Mondays from 5:30-6:30 pm
Cost: $320
If you are interested and have not yet filled out an intake form (scroll down to find it), please do so. If you are a returning participant, simply email us at cmooreineducation@gmail.com to express your interest. Make a payment to hold that spot for your child or if you have an active FSCD contract, and have the program added to your contract, share that confirmation with us and we will direct bill for that cycle.
My teen has been attending the social skills group for awhile now and it has been amazing!!! First off, rarely does he ever want to join group activities/clubs and definitely never signs up to do a session another time. No matter what it is. It has given him a sense of belonging and his social skills are improving all the time. I highly recommend looking into it for your kiddos, they are even looking to start a group for younger kiddos as well as ADHD group. We have been able to get the full session cost covered by FSCD which has been very helpful as well."
NEW: As of February 1, 2024, CMoore in Education can now DIRECT BILL FSCD and that can be a huge help for families. The process would be for the family to ask the caseworker if the program can be added to their family contract (aligning with the child's goals). If that is approved, you simply let us know via verbally or through email and CMoore in Education will send you an invoice to sign/approve and we will send it to FSCD for direct billing. You do NOT have to pay out of pocket and be reimbursed as per previous arrangements.
As of May 8th, 2023, moving forward, families can approach their FSCD Caseworkers to determine if the family meets the criteria through Behavioral Developmental Supports (BDS). Guardians are encouraged to contact their FSCD caseworker to determine if the child meets criteria for additional funding supports through the FSCD Program.
NOTE: This only applies if your child has a contract through FSCD. If you do not have a current contract and would like to apply, here is the link to find out more: FSCD - How to apply | Alberta.ca
Age 6-8 Social Skill Fun Group
Sign your child up for our social skill/fun groups running (see dates above) for ages 6-8. Ensure you have submitted the online intake form before ordering or paying. Ensure your child also meets the criteria listed on the website before ordering or submitting payment. We will be in contact with you asap!
PEERS Course
This is a 14 week course that specifically supports teens to grow their social skills in a supportive and structured environment. Details above for dates, times, location.
Age 9-12 Social Skill Fun Group
Sign your child up social skill/fun groups (see dates above) for ages 9-12. Ensure you have submitted the online intake form before ordering or paying. Ensure your child also meets the criteria listed on the website before ordering or submitting payment. We will be in contact with you asap. (Price includes GST)
Teen Social Skill Fun Group
Sign up for Teen Social/Fun Group for ages 13-17. See dates above. Ensure you have filled out the intake form on the website before purchasing this. Please also ensure your child meets the specific criteria required for participation before making payment. We will be in contact with you asap. Thank you!
PEERS Program: Formal Social Skill Program for Teens
(Autism focused but open to any participant wanting these skills)
*NOTE: This group is different from our Social Skill/fun groups
SEPTEMBER 17, 24, OCTOBER 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, NOVEMBER 5, 12, 19, 26, DECEMBER 3, 10, 17/2024
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Who is this for? Teens aged 13-17 (autism focused but open to any participant wanting to improve social skills and unlock these skills)
OVERALL FOCUS: Learn How to Make and Keep Friends: Making and keeping friends can be hard for everyone, but it can be a special challenge for autistic teens.
What is PEERS? PEERS is a world-renowned, evidence-based social skills program for autistic teens. Developed by UCLA researchers, it is delivered by certified trainers in over 80 countries around the world and now including Grande Prairie, AB.
In this 14-week program, young adults with autism, with the help of their social coaches*, will learn how to:
-Use appropriate conversational skills
-Choose appropriate friends
-Appropriately/Safely use electronic forms of communication
-Use humor and assess humor feedback
-Start, enter, and exit conversations between peers
-Organize successful get-togethers with friends
-Develop romantic relationships and use appropriate dating etiquette
-Handle arguments and disagreements with friends and in relationships
-Handle rejection, teasing, bullying, and rumors/gossip
*Social coaches (a parent, a support worker, an adult sibling, a friend, etc.) will learn effective coaching techniques to reinforce the weekly learning. Note: Parent/social coaches are not required to attend the sessions with the teen but can provide support at home for the weekly practicing of skills.
Is PEERS for You?
-Participants must be 13-17 years old
-Must have academic skills at grade 6 or higher
-Verbal abilities to handle fast-paced instruction
-Motivation to attend
-Must have at least one parent, legal guardian or 'social coach' consistently available to actively support the follow up/practice suggested each week
DATES
Winter Session 2023-2024 | 14 Weeks
Starting Tuesday evenings January 9
Jan 9, 16, 23, 30, Feb 6, 13, 20, 27, March 5, 12, 19, 26, April 9, 16/ 2024 (NOTE: No session during Spring Break (April 2))
NOTE: April 16, 2024 will be the 'PEERs Graduation Celebration' - parents invited to attend! (Location: Harry Balfour catered by St. Louis Bar & Grill)
NEW!!! FALL DATES ANNOUNCED!! Please consider contacting your FSCD caseworker if you are interested or pay privately (no contract) and secure your spot now!
SEPTEMBER 17, 24, OCTOBER 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, NOVEMBER 5, 12, 19, 26, DECEMBER 3, 10, 17/2024
LOCATION
Harry Balfour School (Grande Prairie, AB) (FALL PEERS location TBD)
REGISTRATION: Recruitment for the winter program is now closed as it has begun. FALL PEERS PROGRAM REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!
NOTE: An initial screening assessment will be conducted to ensure the appropriateness of the program application. Please fill in an intake form on this page to inquire and to apply. We will conduct a follow up phone interview with you and your teen.
COST
A $1680 registration fee is due upon acceptance to the program (unless you have it preapproved in your FSCD contract and we will direct bill FSCD the entirity of the fee). Please contact C.Moore in Education through email initially to discuss the full program cost. If cost is a barrier, we will work with you to find a suitable solution. The full program cost may be covered by health benefits or FSCD. **We are looking to form meaningful community support/connections to help support financially as well.
The value these facilitators bring is not quantifiable, however directly impacts our child's quality of life. (Parent Quote)
My boy, 9, went this summer and LOVED it! He had so much fun. Got in the car and was non stop laughing about the games they played and the kids he met. We are planning to do another session!" |
My son has went to two cycles run by CMoore in Education and enjoyed them both. I noticed improvements in his abilities to carry on a conversation with his family and peers. Carmen and Rochelle are wonderful with our kiddos!" |
I have noticed my child's confidence increase for the first time in a long time. We will definitely register for the next session. Thank you!" |
I think their groups are the best ones out there!" |
Its been life changing for my son's desire for connection with his peers!"
Our son said he had fun and wants to go back there tomorrow. This is huge for him. Are you having more sessions?
This group has helped him immensely. It allowed him to try something new, that gently challenged him in an inclusive environment, and supported him where he's at in his social development. (Parent Quote)
Our kiddo had such a great time today, he came out with a huge smile on his face. Thankyou! |
This is literally the first thing that my son did not want to quit! I couldn't believe it! |
Are you looking for a place for your 6-8, 9-12 or 13-17 year old with autism to go and have fun with friends in a safe and supportive environment? Would you feel more comfortable and confident knowing that two adults with education and experience with autism will be there to help with social skill building while your child has a great time in a social setting making new friends/connections? If yes, please consider signing your child up for our 6 week social group!
As parents and community members, we saw a lack of social skill supports and groups that are specifically for pre-teens/teens with autism in Grande Prairie. Having the knowledge and passion to provide such a group, we began offering sessions in February of 2023. We run the groups for six weeks with parents having a chance to sign up again for the next six or have a group of new kids join us. We will have a few peer models join the group that have also had training and are wanting to have fun with us. We will see how much interest there is and expand to other evenings/ages if needed.
Please fill out the intake form below so we can contact you and answer any other questions. We will be informing the parents of the children chosen to participate so that you can make plans for your child to attend (including transportation) and payment. Since we only have 8-10 paid spots (plus peer models), you may be put on a waitlist.
Please note your child must meet the following criteria to attend:
-have an official autism diagnosis
-be between the ages of 13-17 (inclusive) or 9-12 or 6-8 years old
-have verbal abilities to keep up with some conversation and direction
-must be a willing participant (being nervous or uncertain is completely understandable especially at the beginning)
-must not exhibit any behaviours that may harm self or others (for safety of all participants) *including offensive/inappropriate verbal harassment
The participants will need transportation to and from the chosen venue each week. You are not required to stay for the session but will need to pick your child up promptly at the end of the session. The sessions will run on Monday and Tuesday evenings (see above information and/or posters for ages/dates/times/location).
Location for Winter/Spring 2024 Sessions: We will run out of Harry Balfour School (details listed above). This is an excellent location with many benefits to our participants. Please be prompt for drop off and pick up (doors will open right at start time listed).
Since we are just starting out, we will be trialing the format and community interest but will commit to continuing and/or expanding if there is sufficient community/parent support. We will gauge interest and possibly add in another group for non-verbal children for those wanting to participate to accommodate those interested.
How to pay for these sessions to hold your spot after getting confirmation on acceptance:
The cost of the winter group is to be paid in advance to hold your child's spot and must be paid at time of registration/acceptance: $80 per each1.5 hour session for 6 sessions=$480.00 paid to CMoore in Education (EFT) to cmooreineducation@gmail.com. If your child misses any sessions for any reason, there will not be a refund.
*If you prefer to pay with a credit card, please let us know to provide that option.
Note: Let us know in advance if you need financial assistance to help with some of the fee as there are options for local support.
UPDATE on financial assistance: If you would like to seek financial assistance for your child to participate, please fill out the application form for Kev's kids at this link: www.977rock.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/38/2020/12/KEVS-KIDS-APPLICAITON-FORM.pdf I have spoke with the administrators of this group and they have been supportive in the past. Thank you to all agencies that support our families!
IMPORTANT: Our social group is a safe and caring environment where participants are to build friendships and feel joy. To ensure this, moderate to severe behaviors will not be tolerated and will be removed without a refund if we have safety concerns for your child or any other participant. Please review group criteria for reference.
A HUGE thank you to the Peace Autism Society and Kev's Kids for some funding provided! We are so grateful. Thank you as well to Costco, Save-on Foods, Superstore, Co-op and Northside/Southside Safeway for a donation to snacks/drinks as well. We would also like to thank Arcadium for their reduced rate and incredible hospitality/generosity for our week 6 'field trip'. It was SO FUN!!! Grande Prairie is such a supportive community!!
CMoore in Education is a registered and insured business. You will, however, need to fill out a liability form prior to participating. We are officially approved by and supervised by a local registered psychologist and occupational therapist who have approved our materials, procedures and format.
I noticed him using the conversation skills from the sessions so I would like him to re-register and build on it!" |
First when I came here, I was nervous even though I looked like I wasn't. Now that I got to know this place, I got used to it and got more sociable and opened up which I found to be really good and helpful! (Participant quote) |
This place is so fun. You make such good friendships and connections! I really recommend it! (Participant quote)