FAQs
Have some questions? Find the answers below.
Is there a cost for services and is it necessary to provide a health card number?
No. We are a provincially funded organization, therefore, no cost will be incurred by families for our services provided that you are a permanent resident of Ontario.
What will happen during my child’s initial assessment?
The assessment appointment will last approximately one hour. Depending on the age and abilities of your child, the assessment may be completed in one appointment but it may need to be spread out over several sessions and may need to be done in different settings such as our offices, child’s home and/or daycare/school.
If your child has a difficult time adjusting to new people and/or surroundings, you are encouraged to bring some of his/her favourite toys.
The therapist will spend time speaking with you, playing with your child, watching your child and/or completing formal testing
At the end of the assessment, the therapist will discuss the findings with you that may include recommendations for therapy. Before you leave the appointment you may be given suggestions of things you can do home to help improve your child’s skills.
How do I refer my child?
Referrals can be made by parents, legal guardians, other community services providers and/ or physicians by contacting our organization by telephone or by completing and submitting a THRIVE Child Development Centre referral and submitting via fax to 705.759.0783 or 1.855.759.0783. See our referral page here.
What is my role in therapy?
Parents and other caregivers play a very important role in a child’s progress in therapy. We will look for input from the child’s family to help determine the child’s needs/goals.
We recognize parents as the experts of their own children. When planning and providing service, the family is understood as the leader in the decision making process. The staff sees each family as different and unique and recognizes that children perform the best when in a supportive family and community atmosphere.
Families are involved in the decision making process, receive respect, consideration, have the opportunity to participate and ultimately have responsibility for their child’s care.
Your appointment with a THRIVE Child Development Centre service provider may take place at our office, in your home or in a community location such as a Best Start Hub or childcare environment.
If you are meeting us at a THRIVE office, our reception staff are here to welcome you. Please provide your child’s name and who s/he is here to see. The receptionist will notify the service provider that you have arrived.
The health and welfare of children, families and staff is important. Please call and cancel appointments if you or your child is ill.
How do I know if my child needs your services?
If you have any concerns regarding your child’s development, please don’t wait and see if your child will “outgrow” these concerns. As parents you know your child best – give us a call!