Autism Program

Build a plan that works for you

We know one size does not fit all when it comes to autism services. Our service offerings are designed to allow you to mix and match based on your family’s needs. Overwhelmed? Let us help.

For a limited time, we are offering a free initial consultation to assess your family’s needs and create a customized service plan that gives you the most value for your budget. To book yours, please complete the Service Inquiry Contact Form under the tab below.

Some of our services are geared towards children of a particular age and/or developmental level. Learn more about these levels under the Level Descriptions tab.

Autism Diagnosis

In order to register for autism services through the Ontario Autism Program, a child must have a written diagnosis from a qualified professional. This is done at Diagnostic Hubs across the province, one of which is based at our Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre. If your child does not already have a formal autism diagnosis, your primary care provider can refer you to the diagnostic hub. More information is provided here.

To learn more about or register for any of our services, please complete and submit the form below. A member of our team will follow up with you by phone.

Earlier this year, the Ontario government announced changes to the Ontario Autism Program. Information about the changes can be found on the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services website. Please read through the information provided by the Ontario government. If you have questions, our program staff are happy to help.

Childhood Budgets

In the new program, families will receive direct funding called a Childhood Budget. This money can be used to purchase eligible services you believe are most helpful to your child and family. The ministry is taking a phased approach to bringing families who are currently on the wait list into the program. Please visit the Ontario Autism Program website to learn more about this process.

Transition of Services

During the transition to the new program, all children who currently have a behaviour plan will continue to receive the services outlined in that plan until its end date. As you get close to the end of your child’s additional behaviour plan, you will receive information about applying for a Childhood Budget.

Our team is part of McMaster Children’s Hospital, one of Canada’s leading providers of specialized, evidence-based care for children and youth.

We are based at MCH’s Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre – a state of the art facility designed in collaboration with patients and families. It features multiple play zones, a resource library, interactive artwork, and specialized therapy space, such as fully outfitted kitchens where clients can practice life skills. We serve families in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Brantford, Niagara, and surrounding areas. Our services are available to children with a diagnosis of autism, and those with other neuro-developmental disorders or acquired neuro-disabilities.

Our clinical team are experts in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). As part of a hospital, we’re held to the highest training and oversight standards. This means you can always be confident our staff have the skills and up to date knowledge to give your children the best chance at success.

We’re offering free virtual clinic and consultation appointments. Learn more.

Watch the video: Truth or Myth: Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
View our videos for parents and caregivers.

Tip Sheets for Parents & Caregivers

Toilet Training
Teaching Naturally
Set a Predictable Routine
Providing Clear Instructions
Safety at Home
Positive Reinforcement
Keeping Engaged
Improving Sleep

Program Components:

• A six-month curriculum-based program to prepare your child to begin school, with a focus on key readiness skills
• Individualized programming with virtual, in-person, and group-based service elements
• Individualized transition supports and consultation for the first six months of school

Eligibility:

• Be registered with the Ontario Autism Program and received an invitation letter for this service
• Children with Autism, who will be entering school for the first time (Kindergarten or Grade 1)

After receiving an invitation from the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS), families can contact McMaster Children’s Hospital to learn about available service options in the Hamilton, Niagara, Brant, Haldimand-Norfolk, Six Nations of the Grand River, and Mississaugas of the Credit area. These services are available at no cost to families. Services are delivered in partnership with Bethesda, Haldimand-Norfolk R.E.A.C.H., Lansdowne Children’s Centre, McMaster Children’s Hospital, Niagara Children’s Centre, and Six Nations Health Services.

For registration or to learn more, call 905-521-2100 ext. 70019 or email entrytoschool@hhsc.ca.

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