Family Wellness & Special Needs Guide

It’s not uncommon for parents to believe they would know if their child has a vision problem, as these issues can be hard to spot, particularly if there is only a problem in one eye. Because 80 percent of learning is visual, annual comprehensive eye exams with your doctor of optometry are recommended and children’s eye exams are covered by Alberta Health. Use ‘Find an Optometrist’ on our website to find a doctor close to you.

Join our classes! Alberta Health Services Professional Parenting Educators provide reliable, current parenting and early childhood education.

Calgary Birth Essentials is the premier spot to find all of your needs from bump to baby. With over 800 families supported, we proudly offer highly-experienced prenatal educators and doulas to provide you with the education, support, and advocacy throughout your journey. We help you to gain confidence in your pregnancy, birth, and early parenting so you can make this life-changing transition knowing you are taken care of.

Since 1986, The Children’s Cottage Society has been dedicated to preventing harm and neglect to children and building strong families through support services, respite programs, and crisis nurseries.

Community Links strengthens individuals, families, and communities of North Rocky View by providing them with and connecting them to services, supports, and resources.

Many mothers want to breastfeed their babies, but some stop sooner than planned. Connecting with La Leche League (LLL) can make the difference to reaching your breastfeeding goals. LLLC Calgary offers mother-to-mother breastfeeding support and information by email, over the phone, or at monthly meetings. Check us out at lllc.ca/find-group-alberta or phone for more information or assistance. Facebook, facebook.com/lalecheleaguecanada, and Twitter, twitter.com/LLLCanada.

Nanny Tax Frustration Relief. We offer a no-hassle payroll tax calculation and remittance service that caters to people with a nanny or elder-caregiver in Canada. We take the confusion out of payroll tax deductions, room and board, T4s, ROEs, and other paperwork. Pass your nanny payroll tax headaches on to us!

Rowan House’s mission is to provide crisis intervention, long-term support and education for those affected by family violence in rural communities.

SUMMIT LEGAL GROUP provides professional and affordable legal services in the areas of Real Estate, Wills, Estate Planning, and Notary services. We offer flat rate fees, timely service, open and clear communication, and full explanations of all details related to your transaction.

As Calgary’s largest and longest serving women’s organization, YW Calgary offers services and programs to help women and their families thrive.

We are experts in treating a wide range of trauma and attachment issues with children and families. (Please see our full listing under “Therapy, Care, & Support Services - Special Needs.”)

At The Family Psychology Place, our team of experts work together to provide high-quality assessments and counselling. We work with toddlers and young children to explore communication problems or developmental delays. We provide assessments to children and teens to explore learning, behavioral, emotional, attention, or social skills concerns. We offer parenting help and treatment for ASD and ADHD. Our offices are located in north and south Calgary. Come for answers, stay for solutions.

(Please see our full listing under “Educational Programs - Special Needs.”)

We are a family-centered psychology practice for children and youth ages 3 to 18. We offer child therapy for Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and other concerns. We provide psychological and educational assessments for ADHD, Learning Disability, Giftedness, Autism, Intellectual Disability, Sensory Impairments. Our written reports are reader-friendly with practical recommendations for home and school. We can provide documentation to support school enrollment, exam accommodations, individual program plans, and government programs.

Sage Centre, through its Child and Family Grief Services, supports families with children and teens (ages 5 to 18) who are grieving the death of a loved one or who have a family member facing life-threatening illness.

Music Kids is Chinook School of Music’s early childhood music program for ages 6 months to 5 years. This program integrates scientific research supporting the positive role that music plays on brain development. Classes incorporate singing, movement and instrument play in a joyful and nurturing learning environment. Our new Sign & Sing class offers babies and parents an opportunity to learn baby sign language through song!

Kids U is an accredited daycare and preschool that accepts infants and children up to Kindergarten-age. We offer parents a safe, clean, caring environment with a strong educational program that also encourages the wonderment of play, physical movement, and social interaction. Our educational approach integrates right brain, left brain, and movement learning into a program designed to build strong, healthy, whole-brain children.

LINC provides basic English language training to help permanent residents or refugees with social, cultural, and economic adaptation.

BTLC is the only school in Calgary using the established and well-researched principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) to teach preschool and Kindergarten students with the unique learning needs and challenges associated with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. BTLC’s success is based on small class size, intensive and individualized programming using effective, research-based teaching strategies, a high ratio of adult support, and opportunities for integration in community schools.

Connect Society provides daily, on-site preschool and Kindergarten programs for children who are Deaf or hard of hearing. The program offers a language-focused curriculum, daily speech language therapy services, play-based learning, and staff knowledgeable in the impact of hearing loss. Monday to Thursday: 9am to 2pm. For more information, contact Janet Bremner at jbremner@connectsociety.org.

Community Services at Foothills Academy offers a variety of programs and services year-round for individuals affected by Learning Disabilities and/or ADHD in the general community. Programs include remedial reading, writing and math instruction (Read/Write and Math); Amicus Recreation Camps; in-person and online community and educator workshops; psycho-educational assessments, counselling, and small group programs. Financial assistance may be available for qualified families.

LIFT Learning motivates, inspires, builds self-confidence, and challenges your child to become the best learner they can be! For learners aged 8 to 16 with one or more challenges (memory, learning disability, ADD, ADHD, anxiety, low confidence, fine motor disability, writing challenges, math challenges).

At New Heights, we provide a nurturing environment for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder through educational programming and home and community support for preschool-aged children to young adults. We’ve created a community dedicated to breaking down barriers and releasing the vast potential of each child that walks through our doors. 

Rundle Academy, part of the Rundle College group of schools, is a private, co-educational day school for students in Grades 4 to 12 with a diagnosed learning disability. Rundle Academy provides a premier educational experience focusing on character, academics, and co-curricular pursuits.

We offer a variety of Registered Programs for all ages and skill levels. Learn to swim programs from ages 4 months to adult. More advanced swimmers can join one of our Swim Clubs or take their interest in lifesaving to the next level with organized Lifesaving Leadership courses. Get them active early in Preschool for Active Living. A Membership at Repsol Sport Centre gives you unlimited access to all group fitness classes, fitness centre, five gyms, two pools, hot tub, cold tub, steam room, two tracks, and so much more - all under one roof at a great rate!

We offer drop-in day camps over the holidays, drop-in for Nerf Wars on Saturday evenings, child and youth art, dance, martial arts, sports, and activity programs, and flexible Mommy & Me classes all year long for you and your little one!

Vecova Recreation Centre provides recreation and leisure opportunities to Calgarians of all ages and abilities.

Since 1994, Amaranth has provided the best in healthy groceries and supplements. We have everything you need from allergen-friendly choices to hard-to-find bulk herbs and spices. As always, if you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our friendly staff. Thanks for supporting us, Calgary!

We bring you great prices on your favorite products and services all together under one roof. Discover our great quality and variety of foods, stylish products for your home, and a complete pharmacy to serve all of your family’s needs.

TOPS® mission is to support our members as they take off and keep off pounds sensibly. One of the things that sets the TOPS® program apart from others is group support. No matter what health goals you set for yourself, having the support of others who share your goals and challenges can make all the difference. The TOPS® method is scientifically proven to help members stop dieting.

Protect your health and wellness. Thousands of Albertans enjoy the affordable protection of Alberta Blue Cross individual health plans. You can, too. If you’re without employer benefits, we’ve got a plan to fit your family’s needs and your budget. Prescription drugs, dental, vision, ambulance, travel, and more. Call us today or visit our website for your free information package.

Our two locations offer diagnostic imaging and techniques that promote personalized treatments. We specialize in Speed, Damon, Incognito* braces as well as Invisalign. Our commitment is to earn your trust, with the goal of giving our patients a beautiful smile to show off! We take pride in the relationships we build and the results we provide. We look forward to meeting you! *Available at our Mission office.

First tooth? First visit! North Calgary Pediatric Dentistry is always accepting new patients! Open 7am to 3pm with after-hour emergency care available, Dr. Rory Vinsky and Dr. Cameron Zealand are specialists in Pediatric Dentistry. Serving Calgary and neighboring communities in providing dental care for infants, children, and adolescents for over 20 years! No referrals necessary. Direct billing to insurance and zero interest payment plans are available.

South Calgary Orthodontic and Pediatric Dentistry provides dental care to our pediatric patients, and our orthodontic patients of all ages, in a caring and comfortable setting. Both orthodontic and children’s dental care are provided by Canadian and American board-certified specialists in one convenient location. Collaboration of care between both specialists is available when the need arises. No referral necessary. Complimentary orthodontic consultations. Ample free parking.

Amicus Recreation programs are designed specifically for youth (ages 8 to 16) with Learning Disabilities and/or ADHD to provide opportunities to learn new skills, socialize, and gain self-confidence. A wide variety of activities (technology, sports, arts - to name just a few) are offered. There’s something for everyone! Programs are led by mature, trained staff who provide a welcoming, supportive environment. Financial assistance is available for qualified families.

Between Friends provides quality social, recreation, and self-development opportunities for people with disabilities to connect, grow, and belong. We focus on abilities, not disabilities. This allows each person to set their own goals and determine their level of participation. Many people with disabilities seek social and recreational activities that are fundamental to enriching their self-esteem, quality of life, and mental and physical health. Between Friends facilitates programs with these goals.

At Calaway Park, it’s all about family fun! Visit calawaypark.com for more information on Calaway Park’s Special Needs and Special Needs Aide admission rates. Access 2 Entertainment card required for Attractions Boarding Pass program. Your smile is our mission!

Youth Singers of Calgary offers programming for youth (ages 9 and up) and young adults with cognitive delays to participate in the performing arts. STAR (Special Talents in Arts and Recreation) and STAR Young Adults provide an interactive experience using voice, movement, and instruments to foster a love of music and dance in a safe, stimulating, and fun environment.

ZOOLIGHTS, presented by Olympia Trust Company, is back for the 23rd time! Of course, we’re bringing back the classic activities you’ve come to love and have added in some new ones. This year’s ZOOLIGHTS will feature new activities including Wizarding Wednesdays, Potions Class, Axe-Throwing, the Sugar Shack, and more, in addition to the classics like ice skating and fire pits! And for one magical evening, there will be an inclusive night for families with sensory needs. Check back at our website where we will announce the date for the inclusive evening. ZOOLIGHTS runs November 22 (excluding Christmas Day) to January 4.

Compassionate care for children with special needs. Bayshore’s caregivers provide safe, effective, and exceptional client-focused home care services.

Cause and Effect is a community-based early intervention service for children with developmental delays or exceptional needs within Calgary and surrounding areas. We provide play-based, individualized programming for children 6 months to 6 years old. Our multidisciplinary team supports children in local preschools, daycares, community and home environments, helping them to achieve maximum development and independence. Programs include Program Unit Funding (PUF), Mild/Moderate programming, Family Supports for Children with Disabilities (FSCD), and private therapy services.

We are experts in treating a wide range of trauma and attachment issues with children and families. We support families managing issues relating to adoption, abuse, ADHD, autism, anxiety/excessive worrying, grief, depression, emotional regulation, adjustment problems, behavioral problems, parent-child conflict, oppositional behavior and aggressive behavior. We offer full assessment services including psycho-educational assessments for giftedness, learning disabilities, and autism. We offer cutting-edge treatments including EMDR, neurofeedback, biofeedback, and Tomatis.

Staffed by parents that have been there, The Children’s Link Society is Calgary’s first and only special needs connection. Whether newly-diagnosed or struggling through critical life events, our service connects parents with the services they need, when they need it. The Children’s Link Society is committed to the development of a community where families of children with special needs and those who serve them are informed, supported, and valued.

Medical and disability refund specialists. Accredited with The Better Business Bureau and with over 15 years staff experience, we have an excellent success rate. Confidential and respectful. We communicate directly with your child’s physician to ensure the application is not missing pertinent details and navigate the complex process from the beginning of the application to generating the refund on behalf of our clients. For those that already have the disability tax credit on file, it is definitely worth having us review your returns and benefits as we often find substantial amounts of refunds that were not previously discovered.

The G.R.I.T. program is a non-profit home and community-based Early Childhood program for young children with disabilities, which has been providing services to the Calgary region since 1995. The G.R.I.T. program provides each child with a Developmental Specialist who carries out the child’s Individual Program Plan in the child’s home and/or community. Ongoing consultation from the therapy team and a Special Education Consultant is provided to children and families. G.R.I.T. also provides information and support with the eventual transition into the school system.

Just 4 U Family Services provides care for special needs/typical infants, children, youth, and adults. We provide staff consistency and quality care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Services provided are hourly respite and overnights in both the family and staff home, Developmental Aide with IPP in place, Community aide/outings, care for complex medical needs, awake night shifts, personal care, work-related care, sibling care, and homemaking services.

We are a family-centered psychology practice for children and youth ages 3 to 18. We offer child therapy for Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and other concerns. We provide psychological and educational assessments for ADHD, Learning Disability, Giftedness, Autism, Intellectual Disability, Sensory Impairments. Our written reports are reader-friendly with practical recommendations for home and school. We can provide documentation to support school enrollment, exam accommodations, individual program plans, and government programs.

First tooth? First visit! North Calgary Pediatric Dentistry is always accepting new patients! Open 7am to 3pm with after-hour emergency care available, Dr. Rory Vinsky and Dr. Cameron Zealand are specialists in Pediatric Dentistry. Serving Calgary and neighboring communities in providing dental care for infants, children, and adolescents for over 20 years! No referrals necessary. Direct billing to insurance and zero interest payment plans are available.

Pacekids Programs strives to empower children with special needs and their families through excellence in therapy and education.

Post Natal Helpers provides part-time childcare services for families with newborns, toddlers, preschoolers, and/or special needs children. We have been providing services in Calgary for over 30 years. While we are in the home, the parent has the option to stay, to rest, or to leave. Post Natal Helpers are available in the daytime as well as evenings, weekends, and overnights.

As Calgary’s largest and longest serving women’s organization, YW Calgary offers services and programs to help women and their families thrive.

Life Stages Theatre addresses the challenges of aging in original productions that always incorporate puppets.