Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital is a global leader in pediatric health with the vision that all children and youth live healthy and meaningful lives. For children and youth with autism and their families, Holland Bloorview has played a central role in autism diagnosis as a hub for Toronto.
We have a program of select services designed to begin to meet the diverse needs of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families.
The Ontario Autism Program (OAP) offers support to families of children and youth on the autism spectrum. Children and youth who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by a qualified professional are eligible for the program. Children can receive services and supports until the age of 18.
Holland Bloorview is one of the multiple service providers in Ontario, providing services to children and youth registered with the OAP. This includes two options for Caregiver Meditated Early Years (CMEY) Programs. Holland Bloorview is also a partner agency providing Urgent Response Service (URS) for eligible families living in Toronto.
If your child has a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), you can register for the Ontario Autism Program online or by mail. Visit the Ontario Autism Program for registration information or call 1-833-425-2445.
Current OAP funded program offerings:
Caregiver-Mediated Early Years Programs are part of the OAP and support families with young children ages 12-48 months, who have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Please note: Families must be directly invited to participate in a CMEY program. Only eligible families registered for the OAP will receive a written invitation to register for a CMEY program.
You can learn more about the caregiver-mediated early years programs from the OAP website.
Please note that there is no cost to participate in these programs, but you must be registered for the OAP and have received an invitation letter.
How to Register to the CMEY Programs:
CMEY programs are available for registration following the receipt of an Ontario Autism Program invitation letter ONLY. If you have received an invitation letter via email, please follow instructions on your personal letter to access these services.
ABA Supported Summer Robotics Program
This program is designed for children and youth with disabilities, including those with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), to support skill development and equip caregivers with strategies to extend learning at home. Participants will engage in exciting robotics and coding activities while cultivating essential life skills in a supportive environment. These programs are eligible for Ontario Autism Program (OAP) funding.
What Your Child Will Gain:
- Individualized Planning: A Registered Behaviour Analyst (RBA) will conduct assessments and create personalized plans to guide skill development.
- Caregiver Guidance: Caregivers receive information on progress, strategies, and practical tips to support learning at home.
- Skill Building: Participants can choose to work on skills like participation, peer interaction, communication and self-management.
- Collaborative Approach: A team, including a Robotics instructor, Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (TRS) and Behavioral Analyst will collaborate to support an inclusive, evidence-based program.
- Inclusive Environment: Sessions foster confidence and growth in a supportive setting tailored to children’s needs.
- Consultative Support: The RBA will provide consultative support including assessment, progress updates, and a discharge summary.
Holland Bloorview is offering social work services for the Urgent Response Service as part of the Toronto Autism Services Network (please link to TASN website). This service is a time-limited service with a focus on:
- Reducing risk of harm to the child/youth, others and/or property
- Stabilizing behaviours and prevent crisis
- Targeting a single issue that can be addressed within a time-limited approach
How to Register to the URS:
Please note that Holland Bloorview does not accept any requests for OAP Urgent Response Services directly. All requests for Urgent Response Services are coordinated by Surrey Place. If you would like to determine eligibility for URS, please contact childrens.registration@surreyplace.ca or call 1-833-575-KIDS (5437). For more information visit Toronto Autism Services Network.
Toronto Autism Services Network
Our OAP funded programs are delivered in partnership with the seven agencies that make up the Toronto Autism Services Network. This network was born out of a shared vision to support children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and consists of Holland Bloorview, Geneva Centre for Autism, Kerry’s Place Autism Services, Lumenus Community Services, South Asian Autism Awareness Centre (SAAAC), Strides Toronto, and Surrey Place.
Integrated Recreation and Respite Groups for Children and Youth
Holland Bloorview also offers a range of non-OAP funded inclusive and integrated programs. Children and youth on the autism spectrum are welcome to attend any of these programs provided they meet the eligibility criteria. Please visit our Services Page for more information.