Programs for Children and Youth

Child Anger Management Program
The Child Anger Management Program is an 8 week group to help children (7 to 12 years of age) learn more about anger, as well as skills in anger management, conflict resolution, problem-solving and communication. Through the group children will examine different kinds of anger, where it comes from, how to recognize it, the triggers of anger, as well as the physical, emotional, cognitive and behavioural responses to anger, especially when in conflict. The program will also assist the children in learning how to respond to feelings of anger and associated emotions in a more positive way through learning assertive techniques, coping strategies, problem-solving, communication skills, self-talk, and helping the child take responsibility for their thoughts and/ or actions.

The program will also include parent information sessions for parents to learn more about the program, as well as how to help and support their children through the program.
Encouraging Heroes
The Encouraging Heroes is an 8 week social skills program for children (ages 7 to 12 years of age) and their parents or caregivers. The focus of the children’s group is on learning social skills such as self-monitoring, communication, conflict management and problem solving skills that will improve self-esteem and relationships with others. The parent portion of the group centers on learning how to help and support their children through the program, as well as gaining information on parenting skills, conflict resolution and communication skills. The parents and children’s groups are separate, but run simultaneously. 

Children Surviving the Separation
Children Surviving the Separation is a 6 week program to help children (6 to 12 years of age) adjust to the new transition of separation or divorce. The focus of the group is to identify and discuss feelings related to the separation; recognize that the separation is not their fault and that reunification is not their responsibility; discuss different kinds of families (i.e., single, step-family, blended-family, etc); how to cope with a new family structure and situations, the importance of open communication with parents, as well as learning skills in coping, anger management and problem-solving.

Given the nature of the group, it is essential that parents registering their children for group provide -proof of custody. In cases where parents do not have sole custody of children, the parent --registering the child for the program will need to attain consent for the child to participate in group -from the other parent. Consent from all parent’s having custody of child(ren) participating in group -must be attained prior to the first night of group. Forms of consent can be attained from any of -Family Services York Region’s offices.

Teen Anger Management Program
The Teen Anger Management Program is a 12 week group to help youth deal with anger. The focus of the group is on teaching skills in anger management and communication, through gaining a greater understanding of anger  (emotional, behavioural, physiological & cognitive aspects), gaining awareness of the consequences of an angry response, learning healthy ways to deal with anger and express feelings, learning how to move from aggressive anger to assertive communications with self-confidence, and learning how to constructively handle the anger of others.

Teen Social Skills Program
The Teen Social Skills Program is an 8 week social skills group for youth ages 12 to 17 years of age. The focus of the group is on teaching social skills such as self-monitoring, anger and conflict management skills, problem-solving and communication, as well as peer and family relation ships.

Registration Process
To register for a group program, simply visit one of our Family Services York Region locations in Newmarket, Markham, Richmond Hill or Georgina (click here for phone numbers & addresses).
Group Services Calendar
If you have any questions, please call our  Coordinator of Group Services at:
(905) 895-2371 or toll free at 1-888-223-3999.