Summer Camp and Fall 2010 Registration is now full for ages 4-13. We are currently accepting registration for our 2011 social skills programs.

What are Social Skills groups?
Children and youth with Autism Spectrum Disorders face unique challenges with social interactions in all kinds of settings. To help them develop the necessary skills and understanding to integrate more successfully, Geneva Centre for Autism offers a wide range of groups for children and youth ages 3-18.

How will my child benefit?
With support from our trained group leaders, the groups provide children with opportunities to learn specific social skills, including turn-taking, initiating social play, sharing, dealing with teasing and bullying, self regulation, and understanding emotions. All groups capitalize on the strengths and interests of the participants.  The ultimate goal of all groups is to teach the participants skills that can be used at home, school, in recreational programs, and in other social environments.

How are parents informed of and involved in the groups?
Parent orientation meetings are held before the start of a semester. Parents are welcome to connect with their group leaders in person after each group session.  Parents are also given the opportunity to observe the group or view video footage of the children in the group and are provided with regular updates as to the progress being made.

How often are groups offered?
Social Skills groups run during two semesters every year, in the Fall and the Spring. Groups run weekly for 14 weeks for children 13 years of age and under, and bi-weekly for those individuals 14 to 18 years of age.  In the summer, a Social Skills summer camp is offered.  The camp runs in one- and two-week sessions during July and August.

What is the fee for the groups?
Social Skills groups cost $600 per semester. The Social Skills summer camp costs $600.00 for a one-week session and $1000.00 for the two-week session.

What do other parents and teachers say about these groups?
Parents and teachers consistently report very positive gains in social interaction by children who participate in our groups.  Some parent comments include:
•    He has improved his ability to perform in a group setting markedly.  His teachers and relatives have also noted improvements in his tone when speaking and story-telling.
•    We are very pleased to hear from school that (he) shows great improvement in social skills after he attended a social skills group.  Thanks very much for your support.
•    He is excited to come every week. This is one of the only programs that he looks forward to attending.

How can I register my child for a screening?
Please note that we are no longer accepting registration for ages 4-13 for the Fall 2010 semester, however we continue to accept registration for the under 4 and 14-18 age categories.

If you would like your child considered for screening for the 2011 social skills summer camp or for the 2011 Spring or Fall semesters of the social skills program, please call (416) 322-7877 ext. 245, to have their name added to the appropriate registration list.

Please also see Asperger Program (including Asperger-specific social skills groups)