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We collect basic website visitor information on this website and store it in cookies. We also utilize Google Analytics to track page view information to assist us in improving our website.
WRFN often hosts workshops that include slide presentations, recordings, and helpful notes from presenters. We post them here, under Resources, for your easy access. From time to time, WRFN creates its own resources which you will also find here.
ASD Employment Resource List (click here)
In Winter 2023, WRFN co-hosted a Virtual Camp Fair with KidsAbility. Together we showcased summer camps, programs and/or getaways for children, youth and adults with exceptionalities. All camps and programs presented are those that are specialized for campers with exceptionalities, or they are welcoming, inclusive, and supportive for all children.
For recordings of each session, please see the following links:
*Links will be updated as recordings become available
On March 11, 2021, WRFN co-hosted an informative virtual workshop – Supporting Children and Teens Through the Impacts of the Changing Landscape of the COVID and post-COVID World – in partnership with Waterloo Catholic District School Board and Waterloo Region District School Board. Led by Registered Social Worker Lisa Robinson, of Andrea Warnick Consulting, this session explored the pandemic through the lens of grief and loss. Additionally, practical ways that you and those you care about can actively address and process this grief were shared.
In late May of 2021, Moving On Up! – a Parent and Student Information Evening: Transition to High School for Students with an Individual Education Plan – was hosted in partnership with Waterloo Catholic District School Board, Waterloo Region District School Board and the High School Working Group of the ASD Collaborative. This informative virtual panel discussion involved experienced parents, students, and school board personnel sharing helpful tips on how to successfully transition your grade 8 student into high school.
On September 28, Waterloo Region Family Network in partnership with the Waterloo Region District School Board and the Waterloo Catholic District School Board, hosted an in-person Individual Education Plan (IEP) Workshop. The purpose of the workshop was to share with parents and caregivers all they need to know about IEPs to help their child have a successful school year. They learned about: the purpose of the IEP (What it is and what it isn't), the development & implemtation of the IEP, on-going assessment/feedback opportunities, and had an overview of the IPRC Process. The session was followed by a questions period.
On September 27, WRFN once again partnered with the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) and the Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) for an in-person Individual Education Plan (IEP) Workshop. The presentation went over the key components of the IEP, the role of the student and family in IEP development, the IEP across the year (transitions and family involvement), and an overview of other school board supports. Participants were encouraged to send questions in advance of the workshop, so key concerns could be addressed within the presentation itself. There was also an opportunity for parents and caregivers to ask more questions after the session. The purpose of the IEP workshop was to empower families with the knowledge needed to help prepare their child for another successful school year!
On June 20, 2023, Waterloo Region Family Network, Developmental Services Ontario (DSO), Region of Waterloo, and Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region (EAFWR) came together to host a special Housing Forum for individuals with exceptionalities and their families and caregivers. Presentations from DSO and Region of Waterloo Affordable Housing explored Affordable Housing & Developmental Services supports in Waterloo Region and how to access the two systems: Developmental Services (provincial) and Affordable Housing (municipal).
Information tables from Developmental Services providers and other housing providers in the region were available for guests to visit at the beginning and end of the event. Guests had the opportunity to ask questions to the various service providers throughout the event.
The team at EarlyON has created a set of mental health tip sheets for parents, caregivers, and early learning and child care providers. There are currently five tip sheets available for your use:
