Provide opportunities for kids, youth, families, employees, partners and volunteers to shape their experiences with the network and build a sense of community.
Provide opportunities for kids, youth, families, employees, partners and volunteers to shape their experiences with the network and build a sense of community.
Logan’s Story: Finding Belonging and Connection in a New Community
When Logan and his family moved to Simcoe County in the summer of 2024, they were settling into a new home, school and community. Having opportunities to connect early on helped the family feel welcomed and supported as they prepared for the school year ahead.
Logan uses an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device to support his speech, which plays an important role in how he connects and communicates each day. In the community, inclusive events provide opportunities for Logan to play and feel comfortable being himself. “To be able to go to an event and have it be fun for him, and for me to feel comfortable knowing he won’t be judged and that it’s accessible is incredible,” shared Logan’s mom. At the same time, Logan’s older brother, Liam, also found his own sense of belonging through Sibshops, where being with other siblings who share similar experiences helped him feel less alone.
At home, new opportunities brought special milestones. Through CTN’s Equipment Loan Program, Logan was also able to try adaptive bikes and trikes, creating shared family moments and new ways to connect with his brother. Watching both boys ride bikes together became a milestone the family will always treasure. As Logan’s confidence grew, his love of biking followed him into his school day with support from his occupational therapist. Today, Logan is using his AAC device more independently, especially when communicating with his brother, bringing new joy to their relationship. Once hesitant to ask for help, the family now feels surrounded by a network of care. “It’s been a blessing to access CTN’s programs and support,” shared the family.
“To be able to go to an event and have it be fun for him, and for me to feel comfortable knowing he won’t be judged and that it’s accessible is incredible.”
- Logan's mom
Improving Access to Resources for Families Through our Updated Online Resource Centre
When families can easily find the right information, it can make a difference in supporting the development of their child. Guided by meaningful family engagement, CTN’s redesigned Online Resource Centre (ORC) offers a welcoming, easy‑to‑navigate space that provides access to reliable, up‑to‑date resources for families.
Based on family feedback, CTN reorganized content so it’s easier to explore and quicker to find information for their child. The ORC now includes information across a wide range of topics, including recreation, therapy services, school supports, mental health and the transition to adulthood. This helps families spend less time searching for resources and have more confidence when accessing trusted information. Families can explore information, learn at their own pace and connect to supports that fit their needs. The refreshed ORC reflects what families told us they need most and makes it easier to access reliable information. Visit our website to view the updated Online Resource Centre.
Last year, CTN hosted
family events and workshops with 2,747 participants.
Supporting Family Wellness with Mood Walks in our Communities
Sometimes, well-being can start with a simple activity like spending time outside. Research shows that being in nature can support both physical and mental health. Last summer, CTN launched Mood Walks, a family‑focused initiative inviting kids, youth and families in Simcoe County and York Region to slow down and enjoy meaningful time outdoors.
Offered through CTN’s Child and Family Wellness Program in partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association, Mood Walks create welcoming opportunities for families to move, relax and connect. This initiative supports mental well-being while doing something positive and enjoyable as a family. It also promotes gentle fitness and helps families build social connections with those who share similar experiences. CTN’s Equipment Loan Program was able to provide guidance that helped families explore accessible ways to enjoy the local trails. Through Mood Walks, CTN is creating supportive, inclusive spaces for families to enjoy nature together and encourage wellness for the whole family.
kids and families supported through the Child and Family Wellness Program.
Supporting the Family Experience Through Shared Learning Across the Network
Creating space for frontline clinicians to learn together is helping strengthen family-centred care across the network. Through coaching, facilitation and shared learning, CTN and its network partners are strengthening family‑centred practices and creating spaces to learn together, reflect on real-life scenarios and build practical skills they can use every day.
The coaching focuses on empathy‑driven service experiences, reflection and shared problem solving. Use of Communities of Practice, open discussions, clinical problem solving and practical strategies are encouraged on topics such as diagnoses, wait times, service eligibility, transitions and clinician wellness. This helps clinicians navigate complex or sensitive situations that are often challenging for families, creating more consistent and supportive care. To date, approximately 60 clinicians from the School-Based Rehabilitation Service and Augmentative Communication Consultation Service have participated, with sessions continuing throughout 2026. By supporting shared learning among clinicians, CTN is helping families experience care that is consistent, thoughtful and reflects their individual needs.
Celebrating 20 Years of Supporting All Kids
In 2025, CTN celebrated 20 years of collectively supporting kids, youth and families across our network. To mark the milestone, we hosted an inclusive birthday celebration that brought together more than 130 kids, families, partners, employees and community members for an afternoon of reflection, connection and joy.
The event brought the F‑Words for Child Development to life – kids and youth enjoyed fun activities, movement supported fitness and functioning, time was spent with family, new friendships blossomed and collective moments of belonging inspired hope for the future. By creating an inclusive space, the celebration highlighted the community that has grown around CTN, and the shared commitment to a community where all families are welcome, included and supported. Read more about the celebration on our website.
