Parenting and caring for children and youth is not always easy. Often parents and caregivers have many questions and trying to find the right person and community agency to talk to can sometimes be overwhelming. We have included some of our local community partners below, and we encourage you to call us at 519-741-8585 ext. 3001 or email us at earlyyearsinfo@ytr.ymca.ca to talk with an EarlyON professional. We can support you with the information or referral resources you are looking for.
Talk with an EarlyON Professional
Our EarlyON team is here for you. Call us at 519-741-8585 ext. 3001, connect with us through our website chat box or email us at earlyyearsinfo@ytr.ymca.ca to talk with an EarlyON professional during regular business hours. We can support you with the information or referral resources you are looking for.
Are you looking for more than a quick resource? Do you have questions about your child’s development? Are you looking for local resources or evidence-based information? Do you want to talk about parenting strategies? You can also book a conversation (mornings, afternoons, and evenings) with an EarlyON professional. You can book an appointment for an in-person conversation at an EarlyON location by registering for “Meet with an EarlyON Professional” in KEyON. You can also use this link to book your appointment and we will follow up with you as early as the next business day to confirm a time and platform. Virtual appointments occur via telephone, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams.
Breastfeeding Buddies of Waterloo Region*
Join trained peer volunteers and breastfeeding parents to connect, ask questions, and learn from the experiences of one another. Please visit https://www.breastfeedingbuddies.com for more information on their programs and services or to register.
Breastfeeding Buddies of Waterloo Region*
Me Breastfeed Prenatal Workshop
Are you expecting a baby? Do you have breastfeeding questions? Was the last time harder than you expected?
Please visit https://www.breastfeedingbuddies.com/neve-home/about-services/me-breastfeed-workshop/ to register.
Carizon and Lutherwood*
Front Door is your starting point for accessing child and youth mental health services and supports in Waterloo Region www.frontdoormentalhealth.com. Visit our website for more information about services such as the Zero-Six consultation and Intensive Treatment program.
Carizon*
Children and Parents Connection Program (CAPC) provides services to parents and caregivers of children ages 0 to 6. Our program focuses on parenting education, healthy child development, and enhancing the parent-child connection. We offer group programs, home visiting services, and workshops. Currently, our services are offered both virtually and in-person. For more information please view the current program list or contact us at 519-743-6333 ext. 2383.
Carizon*
Zero2Six Children’s Mental Health Consultation
The Zero2Six program has two components: individual consultation sessions and home-based support. Individual one-hour consultation sessions to parents/caregivers of infants, toddlers and preschoolers (birth to six years of age) focus on social and emotional development, behaviour challenges, and parenting strategies. At this time, the service is offered both virtually and in person. Please contact Front Door at 519-749-2932 to schedule your session and further discuss your needs.
House of Friendship*
Family Outreach Program
A Family Outreach Worker can assist you in connecting with services that you and your family may need. The Family Outreach Program is operated by the House of Friendship. Family Outreach Workers can meet families throughout Waterloo Region. Please call 519-742-8327 x 240 or email info@familyoutreach.ca for more information.
KidsAbility*
Speech and Language (0-3 years)
Do you have questions about your child’s speech or language? A Speech and Language Pathologist from KidsAbility will offer Speech and Language support and suggestions. You can contact KidsAbility directly by calling 519-886-8886 or by visiting their website to learn more about their Early Years Supports including how to make a Speech and Language Self-Referral for your child.
Our Place Family Resource and Early Years Centre*
Stork Secrets (Pregnancy and Postpartum Adjustment Peer Support)
Stork Secrets is a Peer Support program offered by Our Place Family Resource and Early Years Centre. Stork Secrets aims to support pregnant and postpartum mothers with an infant under age 2 who are adjusting to the changes and challenges of parenthood. Visit https://www.ourplacekw.ca/programs to register.
Parenting Now
Parenting Now supports the parent on their journey of parenting. Connect in with their team over email, join their newsletter or attend one of their parenting events. Learn more by visiting their website.
University of Waterloo School of Optometry & Vision Science*
Eye Exams (6 months – 6 years)
This service will provide a full vision exam if families do not have an existing family optometrist. OHIP will cover this exam. Please provide your child’s OHIP number when booking your appointment. Spaces are limited. Registration is encouraged.
Waterloo Region Family Network
This service focuses on supporting all families impacted by special needs; with or without a diagnosis. Waterloo Region Family Network can support you in making connections and navigating community resources in Waterloo Region in order to make informed decisions for your family. Learn more by visiting their website.
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