Welcome to 2025!
We are excited about the initiatives we have planned for this coming year including:
- another conference in October (look for the date in the Feb. newsletter),
- continuing to build on our advocacy efforts with the Government of Alberta,
- and expanding the resources available for parents, adults, educators and employers who engage in the lives of those with LD/ADHD.
But most importantly, we are here for you. If you need accurate information about Learning Disabilities/ADHD, the free help of a resource navigator, or are interested in a free Lunch & Learn for employers, reach out at https://ldadhdnetwork.ca/ or findhelp@ldadhdnetwork.ca.
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New Canada Disability Benefit
The Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) is an upcoming federal benefit for low-income Canadians with disabilities, which can include those with LD and/or ADHD. The Plan Institute has developed an easy-to-navigate website specifically designed for to explain this new benefit and help people access it.
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The Plan Institute also offers webinars on the Registered Disability Savings Plan and help with the Federal Disability Tax Credit. Check out their website for helpful information and assistance with all of the disability plans. | |
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CADDAC is coming to Calgary! A new "dedicated ADHD support centre" will open in the Spring this year. "This new facility will offer essential services, including ADHD assessments, support groups, educational resources, and community programs."
The Network is excited about this expansion of supports for the ADHD community and look forward to working with CADDAC.
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Festival and Event Accessibility Quick Survey
Independent Living Canada is conducting research for the Festival and Event Accessibility Project, on behalf of the Government of Canada.
"We are reaching out to ask for input on the accessibility of outdoor, indoor, and virtual festivals and events in Canada, from Canadians with disabilities, and those who support us. We are also seeking more input from newcomers to Canada, and people who are French speakers. We need your help with this final round of information gathering!
We will use your input to create Canadian festival and event accessibility recommendations. Canadian festivals and events will use these, and they will inform future standards for Accessibility Standards Canada."
Survey ends January 15, 2025.
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ADHD Program for Kids
WOW Occupational Therapy in Calgary is offering an ADHD therapy program starting on Jan 23. They create a personalized program for your child which is then facilitated in a small group social setting.
"Our WOW Program consists of integrating sensory motor development, self awareness, emotional regulation and executive functioning skills to provide a foundation for lifelong learning, growth and success. "
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LD Edmonton Winter Programs
Roblox Social Group for ages 7+
Social Skills Program for ages 8 - 12
Social skills Program for ages 13 - 17
"Our groups specialize in children with ADHD, ASD, Tourette's and Learning Disabilities but all are welcome!
The aim of the social programs is to encourage friendship, positive social/emotional behaviors, active listening, effective communication, and comprehension of social norms."
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This is the first installment of our new blog series on late-diagnosed adults. In her story, Held Together by Sticky Notes: My ADHD Journey Through Chaos Diagnosis and Imposter Syndrome, a young Calgary woman poignantly shares her embattled inner life.
"I was 30 when I received my ADHD diagnosis: Combined Type, Severity: High. For most of my life, I’d been battling an unseen adversary leaving me perpetually exhausted, scattered, and questioning my worth. Receiving the diagnosis was both a relief and an awakening...".
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New virtual support groups are starting in January, offered by ADHD Edmonton for:
- Parents
- Young Adults (18 - 30ish)
- Women
- Adults & Partners (also in-person in Edmonton)
They are also hosting:
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News For Educators & Professionals | |
Reading Books for Youth on Being Neurodivergent
These book lists are great for students who are neurodivergent to feel seen and supported, as well as those who aren't to help them understand what it can be like to experience life so differently.
Ottawa Public Library
Child Mind Institute - also includes books on mental health for kids.
Reading Rockets
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Decodable Text Series
The Reading League offers a huge list of decodable text series for supporting young (K-Gr. 2), youth (Gr. 3-8) and teen/adult readers.
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Neurodiversity 101: Supporting a neurodiverse workforce
"As workplaces become more aware of the benefits of diversity, it's essential to embrace the unique strengths and challenges that come with different ways of thinking and functioning, also known as neurodiversity. In this blog post, we’ll delve into what neurodiversity entails and explore practical strategies for supporting a neurodiverse workforce."
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Creating Neuroinclusive and Accessible Workplaces
Free webinar Jan 14
"Neuroinclusive workplaces are vital to fostering equity, accessibility and innovation. This webinar examines how employers can create adaptable, inclusive workplace cultures online and in person. Participants will explore neuroinclusive values, practices, and employment case scenarios to build their awareness, language, and application in accessibility and inclusion."
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The Learning Disabilities & ADHD Network is a collaborative initiative of a broad group of organizations, which is operated through Foothills Academy and supported by an Anonymous Donor at the Calgary Foundation. | | |
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(1) 403 - 630 - 1616
findhelp@ldadhdnetwork.ca
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