Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is one of a group of 5 disorders that fall under the label of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PPD).

These 5 disorders are Autism
• Autism
• Asperger’s Syndrome
• Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PPD NOS)
• Rett’s Disorder
• Childhood Disintegrative Disorder

Autism typically appears during the first three years of life, although with Asperger’s Syndrome and High Functioning Autism, a diagnosis may not be made until the child is in the education system.

There is no known medical test for ASD. The diagnosis is made by a pediatrician or psychologist and is based on observations of the child’s communication, social skills and general behaviour.

Although some signs and symptoms of children with ASD might be similar, no single learning approach or therapy can be applied to every child.

Our programs are individualized to meet specific learning needs to enable each child to reach his or her full potential.


Download .pdf information sheet

We help educate the community about Autism through these programs:
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Autism Intervention Program

  • The Autism Intervention Program uses an Intensive Behavioral Intervention (IBI) approach to improve key learning skills in the key areas of cognitive, language and social development for children or youth with moderate to severe Autism. IBI is based on the scientific principals of Applied Behavior Analysis.
  • The program individualizes a comprehensive range of clinically appropriate goals targeting a broad range of developmental areas. Intervention is ordinarily provided intensely and requires between 20 and 40 hours of therapy per week. Children or youth who experience significant benefit will show increased readiness for participation in the educational and other community programs.
  • The program will support children or youth in their integration and generalization of gains from IBI into the school setting. Up to one year of transition support is available to assist this process.  

Youth Transition Program

  • The Youth Transition Program works collaboratively with the schools to teach the adolescent with ASD the skill required to successfully transition to secondary school.
  • Hands facilitates the exchange of information between the elementary school, the secondary school and the family through meetings and case conferences.
  • By observing the student in the present and future school environments, recommendations can be made to suit the specific needs of the student.
  • Hands works directly with youth in preparation for the transition and sensitivity training is provided to peer groups.

School Support Program – Autism Spectrum Disorder

  • The School Support Program provides consultations with school board staff to develop effective behavioural teaching methods to support individual students with ASD.
  • Training through conferences, workshops, and other resource materials are provided to school board staff to enhance knowledge of ASD and evidence-based practices.
  • The School Support program works collaboratively with school staff to ensure the most effective interventions and supports are implemented for children and youth with ASD in the classroom and larger school setting.
Enhanced Respite – Special Activities – support expanding existing activities or creating new activities in the community that allows full participation of children/youth with ASD