Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Diagnosis

How do I get a diagnosis for my child?

Families can receive a diagnosis of autism from qualified professionals with expertise and who have undergone specific training. These include family physicians, pediatricians and developmental pediatricians, psychiatrists, psychologists, psychological associates, and nurse practitioners. Children can also be referred by their doctor to the Autism Diagnostic Hub, KidsAbility is a partner and supports with Hub referrals for Central West. CMHA supports for Guelph area referrals. Please connect with your doctor for referral to the Autism Diagnostic Hub in your area.

My child received a diagnosis of autism, what do I need to do now?

Please register for the Ontario Autism Program through AccessOAP and provide all supporting documentation that they ask for.

You do not need to register again if you:

  • Have previously registered your child for the Ontario Autism Program
  • Already submitted a registration form and supporting documents to the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services

If you have questions about registering your child, you can contact AccessOAP:

 

Your child with autism may also be eligible for other government programs for children with special needs.

 

Does my child need a diagnosis to receive services from KidsAbility?

KidsAbility provides families with a range of therapy and services for their child or youth with physical, communication, behavioural or developmental challenges—regardless of if they have a diagnosis or not.


Services Available

What services can I purchase for my child from KidsAbility and what is included?

KidsAbility’s services are all-inclusive and there are no hidden fees for things like supplies, administrative costs or toys. Services that are available for purchase include:
  • Behaviour Supports – Treatment Planning, Groups and 1:1 Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) services
  • Caregiver Supports – Workshops, training, etc.

What kind of skills do you work on?

  • Adaptive and self-care skills
  • Attending and social referencing
  • Cognitive functioning
  • Community participation
  • Coping and tolerance skills
  • Emotional development
  • Family relationships
  • Language and communication
  • Play and leisure skills
  • Pre-academic skills
  • Reduction of interfering or inappropriate behaviours
  • Safety skills
  • Self-advocacy and independence
  • Self-management
  • Social relationships
  • Vocational skills

 

Does KidsAbility offer services on evenings and weekends?

KidsAbility is pleased to offer a variety of ABA services across our sites.  For information on which services may be available, please contact us.  Currently, ABA services are not available on the weekend.  

  

Additional Questions

If I have other questions about KidsAbility’s services, who can I contact?

  • KidsAbility Intake- 519-886-8886 x 1214 or toll-free at 1-888-372-2259 x 1214