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Autism Services – Date Smart
September 12 @ 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Teens will learn information on how to engage in safe dating practices and how to minimize potential risks to dating. In addition, how to set boundaries and have healthy relationships. It focuses on safety and those behaviours most likely to keep them from making impulsive and risky choices. Activities will include introducing weekly date smart topics, watching videos that highlight these situations and clearly demonstrating strategies for avoiding them. There will be lots of group discussions and opportunities to practice responding to these situations through role playing. The following topics will be covered:
- How to understand boundaries
- How to set boundaries
- How to protect boundaries
- How to be DateSmart
- How to make Smarter Choices
- Listen for (and Respect) “No”
A Behaviour Plan will be created for each participant that will outline their learning goals for the group as well as a progress review to summarize outcomes. Content will be adjusted based on the age range of participants.
*Snacks, Drinks and Transportation will not be provided. Participants will be provided with opportunities to have snacks and drinks during group time for those interested in sending on with their teen. Please note, we have a tree nut and peanut free environment.
Who is Eligible for the Group?
This group is currently being offered to teenagers 14-17 years of age, with an ASD diagnosis. Participants must be able to communicate in full sentences and not engage in elopement or aggressive behaviour. Participants must be interested and willing to participate and learn the outlined skills.
Commitment to the Group?
Participants will attend 9 separate 1.5 hour in-person sessions. Weekly challenges are required to be completed at home with caregiver support.
Caregiver handouts will be provided describing the skills learned and tips to practice at home.
Group Dates:
Virtual Caregiver Orientation: Tuesday September 5 from 5:00pm to 6:00pm (via teams)
Teen Sessions: Tuesdays from September 12 to November 14 from 3:30pm to 5:00pm (in person at the Maltby Centre). Pizza and refreshments will be provided on the final session.
Registration: Please email [email protected]. Intake applications will be distributed to all interested parties at a later date, to help determine eligibility and appropriateness for this group. If this group is not the best fit for you and your teen, you will be contacted further with a rationale, and other possible options.
Cost: $750.00
Location: Maltby Centre, Suite 100-31 Hyperion Court, Kingston, ON K7K 7G3
Requirements: To access this group, your child/youth requires an ASD diagnosis and must be within the identified age range.
Please note this group is only offered in English.