June 2026

 

News and Information

 

June Days of Significance

 

Honouring National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day

June is a time to reflect, learn and celebrate the diverse communities that enrich our lives. During National Indigenous History Month, we honour the histories, cultures and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of National Indigenous Peoples Day on Sunday, June 21st. A day created to celebrate Indigenous achievements, Elders, musicians, storytellers, advocates and more who have shaped history and continue to impact our communities. At CTN, we recognize the importance of listening, learning and supporting reconciliation in our everyday lives. Throughout the month, we invite you and your family to explore and celebrate the vibrant traditions and perspectives of Indigenous communities. Visit our website to learn more and access resources.

 

Celebrating Pride Month: Honouring 2SLGBTQI+ Communities

June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate the diversity, strength and experiences of 2SLGBTQI+ communities. Autistic Pride Day is on Thursday, June 18th and an important day to recognize and celebrate neurodiversity, while promoting acceptance, inclusion and respect for individuals with autism. Pride is an opportunity to learn, reflect and show support for creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels respected and valued. We also recognize the connection between Indigenous and 2SLGBTQI+ communities, including the important role of Two-Spirit (2S) identities. We invite you and your family to take a moment to explore resources, learn something new and discover meaningful ways to show support throughout the month. 

 

Access Information and Resources After National AccessAbility Week 

National AccessAbility Week took place from May 31st to June 6th. It celebrated the achievements of people with disabilities in Canada and recognized the importance of building inclusive communities. During this week, we also recognized Red Shirt Day on June 3rd. At CTN, we are committed to creating a vibrant community where all kids, youth and families belong. You can continue to support inclusion and accessibility year-round for everyone. Visit our website to learn more and access resources to support your learning and help build an inclusive community for all.

 

Register for a Free, Online Self-Regulation Parenting Course this Summer!

This Shanker Self-Reg Parenting course provides a unique opportunity for CTN parents and caregivers to consider the roots of behaviour, learning, motivation and social challenges in kids and youth with disabilities and developmental needs. This free, five-week online course will take place on Thursdays from June 25th to July 23rd at 10 a.m. Registration is still open!

 

Attend an Upcoming Wellness in the Woods Event this Summer!

CTN kids, youth and their families are invited to join the Child and Family Wellness Program for Wellness in the Woods, formerly known as MoodWalks. Spend time in nature on accessible trails at a comfortable pace, connect with other families and enjoy time together.



Simcoe County:


York Region:


You can explore accessible equipment options for outdoor experiences through CTN’s Equipment Loan Program.

 
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Free Workshop: CTN's School FUNdamentals with Closing the Gap Healthcare

Are you looking to learn fun and practical tips, strategies and activities to recreate at home to increase your child's school readiness? School FUNdamentals is designed for kids aged three to seven to practice fundamental school skills in a fun, no-pressure environment while learning alongside their peers. Kids can explore six skill stations with the guidance and support of service providers.

 

Two dates available: 

  • Barrie - Thursday, July 9, 2026, from 1 to 2:30 pm.
  • Alliston - Monday, July 20, 2026, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Free Upcoming Events and Webinars

Introduction to Gymnastics in Alliston

Monday, June 29, 2026

starting at 2 p.m.


Try gymnastics with a one-hour introductory class to build confidence, coordination, flexibility and strength while learning basic skills.

Butter Making, Gardening and Craft Day in Stouffville

Saturday, July 11, 2026

from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.


Kids aged three to 12 can explore stations like butter making, planting and crafts at their own pace using a provided map.

Ontario Provincial Police Museum Tour in Orillia

Wednesday, July 15, 2026

starting at 1 p.m.

 

Kids and youth ages six to 18 can join CTN for a private tour and enjoy interactive stations with noise considerations in place.

Introduction to Pickleball in Barrie

Wednesday, July 15, 2026

from 5 to 7 p.m.


Join us at PicklePlex for an introduction to Pickleball as part of our summer Sport Series!

Adapted Gymnastic in Newmarket

Saturday, July 18, 2026

from 10 to 11:45 a.m.


Kids and youth ages four and up can build agility, balance and coordination skills in an inclusive setting.

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Summer Bash

in Barrie

Wednesday, July 22, 2026

from 5:30 to 7 p.m.


Join us for fun summer activities led by Georgian College Occupational/Physical Therapy Assistant students.

CTN's Network Calendar

Our network calendar features events hosted by CTN, our partner organizations and other local community agencies that may be of interest to your family. New workshops, programs and events are added each week. Visit the calendar on our website for more events!

Resources

 

Article: Rethinking Accessibility Beyond the Ramp

May 31st to June 6th was National AccessAbility Week in Canada. This important week of recognition strives to celebrate the contributions of people with disabilities in Canada and to remove barriers and become more disability inclusive as a nation. As the week comes to an end, Ewa Sroslak, a CTN employee, reflects on what accessibility means to them as a mom of a teen with a developmental disability. Read the full article written by Ewa on our website.

FRESH Facebook Group

Our Family Resource, Education and Support Hub (FRESH) Facebook Group is a dedicated platform for parents, caregivers and guardians of all kids and youth accessing services and support through CTN. It creates an online community where families can connect. Read more on our website.

Caregiver Video Series

Our four-part Caring for the Caregiver video series provides caregivers with skills and strategies that can be used in their day-to-day lives. Videos can be watched at your own viewing pace, individually or as part of the series. Learn more and watch the videos on our website.

All About Respite Video

This video explores the challenges unpaid caregivers face and the power of taking a break through respite care. Hear real stories from caregivers and discover tools, supports and why taking a break is essential to your well-being. Watch the video on our website.

CTN supports kids, youth and families by focusing on CanChild's framework of the F-words for Child Development. Every child with varying abilities has the right to have fun, enjoy friends, function as they are, access fitness, plan for their future and join in on family activities.

Connect is a monthly newsletter for families of kids and youth with disabilities and developmental needs and the service providers who support them. If you want to share feedback, have story ideas or want to volunteer to write an article, please email info@ctnsy.ca.

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Better Together: A vibrant community where all kids, youth and families belong.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for general purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Content may change without notice and we are not liable for any reliance on this information. While we strive to keep information current, we make no representations or warranties regarding its accuracy, completeness, quality, timeliness, or suitability and assume no obligation to update the content. The views expressed are those of the Children’s Treatment Network and do not necessarily reflect those of the Province of Ontario.

 
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