Support for Children and Families
Every child develops differently. If your child needs extra support with learning, development, communication, behaviour, or participating in child care, there are programs and services available to help.
Children’s Services works with families, licensed child care programs and community partners across Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton County.
Support for Children with Additional Needs
Children who need extra support may be able to receive help while attending licensed child care.
Support may be available for children with needs related to:
- Communication
- Physical development
- Learning and development
- Social and emotional development
- Behaviour
- Other developmental needs
The goal is to help every child participate fully in their child care program.
Every Child Belongs
Children’s Services works with local agencies and licensed child care providers to create inclusive child care programs.
Inclusive child care means children can:
- Take part in early learning and child care with other children
- Receive support based on their individual needs
- Learn and play in a welcoming and respectful environment
Additional supports may be available to help licensed child care programs meet a child’s needs.
How do I request support?
If your child needs additional support, talk to your child care provider or contact Children’s Services.
In some cases, a community professional who is already involved with your family may need to complete a Special Needs Referral Form.
This could include a doctor, therapist, agency worker or another professional supporting your child or family.
Need help paying for child care?
If you or your child has a documented special need, you may qualify for child care fee subsidy.
A doctor, agency or other professional involved with your family may need to provide documentation about the need for additional support.
Questions about your child’s development?
If you have questions or concerns about your child’s development, local organizations can help.
Support is available for areas such as:
Speech, Language and Communication
Organizations such as Five Counties Children’s Centre can provide information and services related to speech and language development.
Movement and Physical Development
Support may be available for gross motor skills, fine motor skills, occupational therapy and physiotherapy.
Hearing and Vision
Your family doctor, nurse practitioner, optometrist or other community health professionals can help connect you with hearing or vision services.
Growth and Development
Local organizations offer programs that support children’s overall growth, learning and development.
Behaviour and Social Development
Families can also find support for behaviour, social skills, emotional development and parenting.
Children with Multiple or Complex Needs
If your child has several developmental or medical needs, community agencies can help connect your family with appropriate services.
Local Organizations That Can Help
Kawartha Lakes
Families may be able to access support through organizations including:
- Five Counties Children’s Centre
- Chimo Youth and Family Services
- Community Living Trent Highlands
- BGC Kawarthas
Haliburton County
Families may be able to access support through:
Need help finding the right service?
You do not need to know exactly which service your child needs before asking for help.
Contact Children’s Services or speak with your child care provider if you have questions about your child’s development or the supports available to your family.
