Overview
The FIRST® Robotics Program at Holland Bloorview is a hands-on, inclusive program designed to engage children and youth in the exciting world of robotics. By combining teamwork, problem-solving, and technology, the program fosters essential developmental skills such as communication, independence, and life skills. This recreational program provides a supportive environment where participants can build confidence and connect with peers while learning to design, build, and program robots.
Social Skills and Communication
The program emphasizes collaboration and teamwork through group-based challenges and activities. Participants work together to solve problems, share ideas, and achieve goals, fostering communication and social interaction. Guided discussions, project presentations, and peer feedback help participants enhance their public speaking and listening skills.
Independence and Decision-Making
FIRST® Robotics encourages participants to think critically and make independent decisions throughout the program. From choosing design elements to troubleshooting coding challenges, children and youth gain experience in self-directed learning and problem-solving. Each session is structured to allow creativity and autonomy, empowering participants to take ownership of their projects.
Life Skills Development
The program teaches practical skills that extend beyond robotics, including time management, organization, and planning. Participants learn to manage project timelines, maintain their robotics kits, and connect the concepts they explore to real-world applications such as automation and technology in daily life. These lessons provide valuable tools for fostering independence and long-term success.
Recreational Enrichment
As a recreational program, FIRST® Robotics engages participants in meaningful activities that support their well-being. Themed robotics projects encourage creativity. Each class participants showcase their work to celebrate their achievements with family and friends, creating a sense of community and accomplishment.
Who should apply?
Participants must be able to safely engage in a structured large-group program for up to 2 hours.
Participants must demonstrate an interest in the selected robotics program. Participants must be motivated to actively work toward their selected goal throughout the session.
Children must be of the appropriate age to participate or be turning the required age during the program. The program is open to children ages 6–14. Please note that exception do apply on an individual basis and must be agreed upon as a good fit for the participant.
Science Club: Ages 6–14
Junior Robotics: Ages 6–10
Coding 101: Age 8-14
Intermediate Robotics: Ages 10–14
A formal diagnosis must be provided prior to the program start date to ensure alignment with OAP funding requirements for children claiming OAP funding reimbursement. Children with a formal diagnosis but not claiming OAP are also welcome to apply.
Families may be required to provide their own 1:1 support if additional assistance is needed for successful participation. Confirmation of registration will depend on the availability of this support.
If a child uses assistive technology to engage in communication, they will be required to bring it to each class.
This program qualifies under the Ontario Autism Program (OAP) funding for Respite and Community Programs. Invoices will be issued at the conclusion of the program. Please note that any missed classes may result in part of the program cost being ineligible for reimbursement under OAP guidelines.
Cancellation policy:
To receive a refund, program cancellations must be submitted at least one week prior to the program start date. Cancellations received less than one week before the start date will be subject to the full program fee, and no refunds will be issued.
