2018-19 CVCDA Annual Report

ANNUAL REPORT

2018 - 2019

CVCDA.CA



TABLE OF CONTENTS

WELCOME TO THE CVCDA Supported Child Development Program 24

CVCDA Funders 4 Tools of the Trade 26
About the CVCDA 5
The Autism Program (TAP) 28

Camp Oasis 29

YEAR IN REVIEW The CV Autism Centre 30

Message from Board Chair 6 VI Regional Advisors for IDP and SCD 32

Board of Directors 7

Message From Executive Director 8 Jumpstart Preschool 33

CVCDA in the Community 10 Behaviour Consultation Program 34

Community Fundraising Initiatives 12 Family Support Program 35

2018 CVCDA Children’s Telethon 14 Community Integration Program 36

Pathways to Healing Partnership 37

CVCDA PROGRAMS Project Inclusion 38

Family Advocate 17 The Friendship Project 39

Infant Development Program 18 CVCDA Staff Listing 40

Aboriginal Speech -Language Pathology 22 2018-2019 FIGURES

Early Intervention Therapy 20 CVCDA Revenues 42
CVCDA Expenses 43
Comox Valley Early Years Centre 23

WELCOME TO THE CVCDA

CVCDA FUNDERS

The Comox Valley Child Development Association is Funds raised at the Telethon, as well as donations
a registered non-profit society. Donations are very made all year round, support the work of the CVCDA
important to help us serve local children and families. and are gratefully accepted. A tax deductible receipt is
Our main fundraiser is the Children’s Telethon held issued for all donations.
annually on the first Sunday of November.

Thank you to these ongoing funders:

CVCDA MANDATE All of the services at the CVCDA are family centred.
This means that we recognize that families know their
The Comox Valley Child Development Association pro- children best and play the most important role in their
vides services to children, youth and adults with diverse life. We support families to make decisions about their
abilities and their families. Our primary location is at child’s services; we respect individual families’ values,
the corner of Third Street and Cliffe Avenue, but our beliefs, and cultural backgrounds. At the CVCDA fami-
work also takes us into schools, homes, and other parts lies are equal partners in the provision of services.
of the community.

4 COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

The Comox Valley Child Development Association (CVCDA) is committed
to the support of children, their families, and caregivers so that the lives

of children, parents, staff and the child care community are enriched
educationally, emotionally, socially, and physically.

The Comox Valley Child Development Association (CVC- child and family. As well the agency expanded to serve
DA) is a non-profit society that has served children and school age children and youth and now offers two pro-
youth with special needs since 1974. grams for young adults.

The Comox Valley Child Development Centre, later Now at its present site at 3rd and Cliffe, the early
changed to Child Development Association, opened its intervention therapies and Infant Development pro-
doors in downtown Cumberland on July 12, 1974. gram, two of the original 1974 services, are still there,
although the therapists are likely spending more time in
Initially services were focused on preschool age children family homes and the community than in their offices.
with developmental delays and disabilities. Services, like There is still a preschool program, Project Jumpstart, of-
Early Intervention Therapies and preschool, were of- fered for all children in partnership with School District
fered mainly within the centre. Over the years the agen- #71 at Courtenay Elementary. Other programs include:
cy and the services provided have grown and changed Supported Child Development; Autism Program; Be-
to respond to the needs of the children and families haviour Consultant; Community Integration and Project
who access them. The Cumberland site was closed and Inclusion. All of them are designed to not only enrich
the association opened a community based office with the lives of the people who access the services, but also
the capacity to offer inclusive services in the location to contribute to a stronger Comox Valley that welcomes
(home, park, or therapy room) that worked best for the and includes everyone who lives here.

The CVCDA respectfully acknowledges that it is a privilege and an honour to live
and work in the unceded traditional territory of the K’ómoks First Nation.

COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 5

YEAR IN REVIEW

MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD CHAIR

PAM CROWE As I sit down to write this report and ponder our last year, the overwhelm-
BOARD CHAIR ing feeling I have is GRATITUDE. On December 6th 2018 I was so proud,
humbled and grateful to be part of the ribbon cutting ceremony to open
our new Autism Centre of Excellence. How lucky we are to live in such a
wonderful community that continues to support the Association year after
year. The completion of the Autism Centre was never in doubt however the
outpouring of support from individuals, local businesses and local service
clubs continues to amaze and inspire me. One person who must be singled
out is Pippa Atwood, our architect, who donated hours and hours of her
time to make our building a reality. We are so thankful to you Pippa! And
to Cale Lacasse and the team of Lacasse Construction. Thank you! Thank you
for your support, your patience and for meeting our December deadline!!

Yes we had $350,000 granted from government and gaming funds but that
amount accounted for only half of our total needed and the rest came from
this community, local businesses such as Royal LePage Comox Valley, McEl-
hanney Associates, Crown Isle Resort, Brian McLean Cheverolet, Rotary Club
of Strathcona Sunrise, Comox Valley McDonald’s, Phillipa Atwood Architect
and Lacasse Construction. Subtrades were generous and individuals and
service clubs joined in to add to our total. Again we were the grateful re-
cipients of the proceeds of McHappy Day so a thank you once again goes to
Stuart and Jess Aldred, owners of the Comox Valley McDonald’s Restaurants.
Russ and Sharon Nelson work tirelessly for us all year donating the proceeds
from their “Kids for Kindling” campaign at the Telethon - over $5,000 this
year. Shoreline Orthodontics, the Rotary Clubs of Comox and Strathcona
Sunrise and of course how about those Lions.....the Monarch and Comox
Valley Lions Clubs and our amazing Baynes Sounds Lions who walked to
a grand total of over $10,000 that was donated at the 2018 Telethon. The
opening of the Autism Centre of Excellence will change lives and so for
those that helped us reach this goal we are so very very grateful.

The focus of this last year for the Board has certainly been the oversight of
the financing of construction of the building. The daily work of the Associ-
ation in all of our many other programs, referenced more clearly in the rest
of this Annual Report, continued through the noise and the disruption, by
our talented and professional staff. A huge thank you to all our staff and
administration for “staying the course” for our children and families and
ensuring they continued to receive the highest level of care and service.

And as always, I thank my fellow members of the Board of the Child De-
velopment Association whose dedication and vision drive this Association
to always move forward to the enrichment of our children and families we
serve and our community we live in.

GRATITUDE - yes definitely GRATITUDE!

Pamela Crowe,
Board Chair

6 COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The Comox Valley Child Development Association is a registered non-profit
society. The Association conforms to all requirements of the Societies
Act, BC. As a registered non-profit, agency membership is encouraged
and open to anyone upon payment of a nominal annual fee.

The Board of Directors is elected from the membership Meeting each year. The committee receives names of
for a two year term of office at the Annual General anyone who might be interested in joining the Board.
Meeting held every year at the end of June. The Board The Nominating Committee also recommends directors
is a decision-making entity, with jurisdiction over agen- for the executive office. Directors may hold executive
cy planning and policy. The Board has fiscal and legal office for two years or longer. The Board meets monthly
responsibility for the agency. It is the goal of the agency in the evening.
to have an active, visionary board representing a wide
variety of interests and knowledge. Daily operational decisions are the responsibility of the
Executive Director, who reports to the Board.
The Nominating Committee is a standing committee
of the Board appointed following the Annual General

2018/2019 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Arne Einarson, Director
Christine Helpard, Director
Pamela Crowe, President Mary Ruth Harris, Director
DonnaLynn Wilson, Vice President Samantha Schneider, Director
Diane Daigle, Secretary Celine Gummer, Director
Jean-Marc Jaquier, Treasurer
Debbie Deschamps, Director

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING & MEMBERSHIP

The CVCDA holds their general meeting annually in You must be a CVCDA Member in good standing to
June on the third Wednesday. vote at the 2019 AGM. To become a member you must
be paid up no later than Tuesday, May 7, 2019 (six
This year’s AGM will be held on Wednesday, June 19, weeks in advance of AGM). Membership dues of $2.00
2019 at 5:00pm in the lower level of the Child Devel- can be paid in person at the CVCDA’s main reception.
opment Centre (237 3rd street, Courtenay).

COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 7

YEAR IN REVIEW

MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUITVE DIRECTOR

JOANNE SCHROEDER “If you build it, they will come”. I think this quote best captures the last year at
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR the CVCDA. We have been building it . . . and they have been coming.

This year saw the completion and grand opening of our new Autism Centre. As
I write this, the programming within the new Centre is flourishing and the chil-
dren, youth and staff members who are accessing the space are also thriving. We
are thrilled to have this new facility completed and are so grateful to all of the
community members who contributed to making it possible.

Building, though, is much more than bricks and mortar.

We have been building our programming, both through expansion of existing
services and the addition of some new ones. Some of these include:

• Our Supported Child Development program has had a busy year, accessing
some additional funding to support child care centres with both equipment
and training, enhancing their capacity to include all children in quality care
environments.

• We are now offering regular sibling support groups. This much needed
service provides a safe space for children and adolescents to share the daily
challenges of living with a sibling who has some extra needs.

• The Circle of Security program has also met a need in the community offer-
ing a non-judgemental, attachment based approach for parents.

• Project Inclusion has grown adding several new members to their vibrant community.

• The Recreating the Village camp program expanded to two camping sessions
at Elkhaven on Denman Island.

While we wound down our provincial Early Years Centre, we received some new
funding that will allow us to maintain and grow our Valley Child website, adding
an online platform where parents can interact directly with our staff to get infor-
mation about available resources for young children.

And in all of our programs, we continued our quality service to families. As the
population of the Comox Valley has grown, so too has the demand for our services.
Staff are managing larger caseloads than ever. I marvel daily at their capacity for
service; their compassion for families; and their enduring warmth and good humour.

We have also continued to build relationships. Each year as I sit down to write this
report, I am struck by the number of people both within the organization and
throughout the community that are connected to the CVCDA in some way. We are
fortunate to maintain our existing relationships with service clubs and some of our
other long time supporters. We are grateful for a couple of newer relationships built
this year; the Dab & Donate team that provided us some fun Friday nights along
with their generous donation; Shawn Vincent who led the Rocks for Kids team in a
musical extravaganza by the sea; and Roger McKinnon and the Mayors’ Cup group
who steered the rainiest but most successful, golf tournament I have been a part of.
Thank you to all of these folks and the hundreds of others who support the CVCDA.

Between us we have built a community which I am proud to be a part of. We would
love to keep growing so be in touch with any ideas you have for the next “build”.

8 COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

ADMINISTRATION & SUPPORT TEAM

From Maintenance to Marketing, our support team here at the CVCDA keeps
things organized and running smoothly. Administration staff assist our
child development professionals in effectively performing their roles.

DONNA BACON MICHELLE ERIKSON BROOKLYN GALLOWAY MATT MACEY
HOUSEKEEPING HUMAN RESOURCES /
PAYROLL ADMINISTRATOR MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS MAINTENANCE

SANDI MCDONALD LENE TRIEU CHARLENE WALLACE-DILLE ROBYN WALSH
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT / DIRECTOR OF FINANCE ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
IT COORDINATOR & ADMINISTRATION

MISSING PHOTO: FRANCESCA RACHO, ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

ACCREDITATION

The CVCDA is fully accredited by CARF, an service delivery is something
accreditation agency with fifty years of sup- we do all year, every year.
porting organizations to improve the quali-
ty of their services and meet internationally Overall our accreditation
recognized standards. process is guided by re-
newing plans for all aspects
The process of accreditation is ongoing. Our of our service delivery and
commitment to maintain and enhance our business operations on an
policies and procedures and to evaluate our annual basis.

COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 9

YEAR IN REVIEW

CVCDA IN THE COMMUNITY

12

Gordon Ross Photography 3 4

LEFT PAGE RIGHT PAGE

1) CVCDA staffers teamed up with the Comox Valley Health Sciences 1) Robyn and Lene collect donations at the 43rd CVCDA Children’s
Association to walk the Coldest Night of the Year event. Telethon.

2) Sensory Kits loaded with a variety of sensory tools were prepared 2) CVCDA staffers show their support for the family members of the
and provided by SCD for local early lerning centres including instruc- Humboldt Broncos bus crash during nation-wide ‘Jersey Day’.
tion on how to use each of the items.
3) Our CVCDA Float at the Canada Day Parade received first place.
3) CVCDA’s Joanne Schroeder presents the Family First Award to Lance
Petty of Temprite Climate Solutions at the Comox Valley Chamber of 4) Project Inclusion participants head out on the town via BC Transit
Commerce Awards.

4) CVCDA shows support for the Red Dress Awareness Campaign.

10 COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

12

3 4
PROUD COMMUNITY PARTNER

COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 11

YEAR IN REVIEW

COMMUNITY FUNDRAISING INITIATIVES

2

1
4

23

LEFT PAGE RIGHT PAGE

1) Joanne Schroeder and Pam Crowe receive $5,000 donation from the 1/5) Baynes Sound Lions Club completes their 42nd Annual Walk for
Mayor’s Cup Charity Golf Classic. the Children, a 30 km wheelbarrow walk down the Old Island High-
way collecting funds for the CVCDA.
2) Some of our Autism Program (TAP) team along side our new ‘Wall
of Recognition’. This large mounted puzzle plaque is located in Comox 2) Russ Nelson splitting wood for his Kindling for Kids fundraising initiative.
Valley’s new Autism Centre recognizing all of our project sponsors.
3) The organizers getting prepared for one of their Dab & Donate
3) Baynes Sound Lions host a benefit concert with Valdy at the Fanny fundraising events (Ugly Xmas Sweater Gala edition).
Bay Hall.
4) A group of great bands came together on Saturday, June 9th for
#SupportTheCVCDA the CVCDA benefit concert, ROCKS for KIDS in Marina Park.

6) Project Inclusion participants visit local McDonald’s Restaurant
during the annual McHappy Day event raising funds for the CVCDA.

12 COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

1
2

34
Photo: My Comox Valley Now

56

COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 13

YEAR IN REVIEW

2018 CVCDA CHILDREN’S TELETHON

This year was our 43rd Annual Children’s Telethon, All proceeds from the Telethon stay right here in the
where we raised a total of $117,719. The event took Comox Valley to support children and youth with special
place on November 4, 2018 from 12pm to 8pm at the needs and their families. The Comox Valley Child Devel-
Sid Williams Theatre in Courtenay. Our 44th Annual opment Association supported over one thousand chil-
Telethon will take place on Sunday November 3, 2019. dren last year, through its thirteen different programs.
Funds from the Telethon are needed by the organiza-
The Telethon is a FREE event for the whole family to tion to sustain all of its programming.
come down and enjoy all of the entertainment and
activities, while also being part of the wonderful fund- Find out the many ways to participate in our Telethon at
raising spirit here in the Comox Valley. CVCDA.CA.

Above photo: Crystal of Crystal Clear Photography has donated her time and skill by photographing our selected families for
our annual Telethon event poster for the last four years. See her work at: www.crystalclearphotography.ca

14 COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

Photo Credit: Don Tait #CVCDATelethon
Photo Credit: Anthony Brett

Photo Credit: Anthony Brett

Photo Credit: Don Tait

COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 15

CVCDA PROGRAMS

FAMILY ADVOCATE

My role as the Family Advocate for the together to find a program, some day course taught me the principles
Comox Valley Child Development Asso- funding, a resource for their children and benefits around infant massage
ciation allows me to wear two different (regardless of their age). I love being and the impact it has on families. As I
hats each day when I arrive at my desk. able to research and work with our work through the written component
community partners to find a fit for of certification, I have been able to
One of those hats is being the first these kids and point the families in facilitate a five week workshop for
point of contact for our families as the right direction. These services are families as part of my practicum. Hav-
the Intake and Orientation person. also available to all of the children ing this certification means I am able
I get to meet each and every family currently on caseload. Families who to help support a number of families
that is referred to our agency and become clients can also request my as they wait for therapy and program
our programs. I speak with parents involvement or be referred by one of involvement. Often physiotherapy will
every day about their children and my coworkers. I can help to secure al- request that the child also receives
their unique needs. Sometimes these ternative funding for medical equip- massage as part of their therapy plan.
meetings are over the phone, in my ment, find suitable housing, access Being a certified instructor means I
office or at their home. I consider the food bank, accompany them to can help to lighten the load from the
myself a travelling road show and play groups, organize doctor appoint- therapy department and offer some
am happy to meet with families ments or attend meetings, essentially, tangible services to a family in need.
wherever they are most comfortable. if a family needs extra support I can Being in close contact with families
I try to be flexible in meeting parents be involved if they are open to receiv- and building a trusting relationship
when and where they are able…this ing the help! allows me to refer these infants to our
often means my coffee consump- other programs as necessary. It has
tion increases as I tend to meet a lot PROGRAMS IN ACTION been my absolute pleasure to connect
of working parents on their coffee with families and help to support them
breaks around town! Since returning to work after my mater- in caring for their infants.
nity leave in September, I have noticed
The other hat I wear is that of the an increasing amount of referrals for BETH FRASER,
Advocate. This role allows me the infants. Referrals are coming from doc- FAMILY ADVOCATE
time to connect with families on a tors and midwives, public health nurses,
different level. Sometimes this means social workers and play group facili-
meeting with a parent whose child tators. Often these infants might not
is not eligible for our services or is have an immediate need from our early
needing support in areas we do not intervention therapy team. Instead, the
offer. I feel for these families and families need support and may be con-
they often tell me they feel alone and sidered at risk and are asking for help
unsure of where to go for help. Many in navigating their new lives as parents.
tears of frustration and helplessness
are shed by these parents. I hear the In the winter, I was able to participate
catch in their voice on the phone in the International Association for
and assure them that we can work Infant Massage instructor course held
here in the Comox Valley. This four

“I meet with all families contacting the Child social workers, community partners… anyone
Development Association and direct them to the who has contact with children is able to refer
appropriate programs. Referrals come from to our agency. The important piece to note is
anyone and everyone! We accept referrals from that our Agency prides itself on being family
families, preschool and child care centres, public centred. Any referral we receive must be signed
health nurses, family doctors, pediatricians, by the legal guardian knowing that their
medical specialists, play group facilitators,
participation in services is voluntary.”

COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 17

CVCDA PROGRAMS

INFANT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

The Infant Devel- Jennifer McInnes
opment Program has a background
(IDP)serves fami- in Early Childhood
lies with children Education and a
from birth to Bachelor of Arts
three years of age, degree in Child
who are at risk and Youth Care.
for, or who have She worked the in
developmental de- Autism program
lays. Our program and the Supported
brings families and Child Develop-
professionals to- ment program
gether to support prior to IDP.
infants and tod-
dlers through ear- Infant Development Consultants Jennifer has
ly developmental are trained professionals. We have recently been
stages. Our pro- skills and knowledge in child devel- trained as a parent
gram is family-cen- opment and will assist you in en- coach in the Pace
tred and families hancing your child’s development in Project (Parent &
decide what kind these important years. Child Early Coach-
of support they ing Project). The
need. Participation is voluntary and Pace project is a research project
there are no fees for services. through UBC that utilizes the Early
Start Denver Model to work with
Families play a vital role in the de- children who present with social
velopment of their children. From communication delays and who are
birth to three years, a child devel- at risk for Autism.
ops at a rapid pace. Together we
plan activities that best meet the Dixie has a background in Early Chelsey has a Bachelor of Educa-
needs of the child and their family. Childhood Education, a Bachelor of tion and brings valuable experi-
Our program works with a variety Arts degree in Child and Youth Care ence working with and supporting
of caregivers which includes birth (with a First Nation focus), and a many families through her role as
parents, grandparents, caregivers Professional Certificate in Indigenous a foster parent.
and foster parents. Early Childhood Development.

LEE BJARNASON MICHELE WALLS

In September 2018, Lee Bjarna- In February 2019, Michele Walls
son retired from her position as changed her career path and
Infant Development Program moved into a position at Island
Manager. She has made a dif- Health with Nursing Support Ser-
ference in the lives of countless vices. Michele worked at the CVC-
families over the 20 years she DA for almost 15 years; she began
worked in the field of Infant as a Family Resource Consultant
Development and Supported Child Development. before moving into Infant Development in 2004. Her
Lee’s warmth, acceptance and wisdom made her background in nursing brought an area of expertise
a trusted resource for parents as well as for other to the group she established for premature babies
service providers. and for families with children with medical needs.

18 COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

Re-Creating the Village: Families participat- This community program includes
ed in Circle of Secu- service providers from several different
An Aboriginal Approach to Family rity sessions, tradi- agencies; Child and Youth Mental Health
Healing and Community Building tional Aboriginal Clinicians (MCFD), Infant Development
games and crafts. Consultant for Aboriginal Families
This is the second year for the “Re-Cre- The program also (CVCDA), Aboriginal Speech-Language
ating the Village Camp. ”The purpose provided an oppor- Pathologist (UIWONA), and FASD Key
of the camp was to build community tunity for the camp Worker (Wachiay Friendship Centre).
and capacity amongst Aboriginal families to get together five times for Other involvement includes Aboriginal
families, to provide a evening sessions throughout the year. Elders, Culture Keepers, and Cooks.
culturally safe space,
and provide opportu-
nities for Aboriginal
cultural activities for
children and their
families.

The camp was ex-
panded this year to
include an addition-
al five families. It
was also extended
to provide families
with two nights at
camp instead of
the one night from
the previous year. It was a busy time
on Denman Island at Camp Elkhaven.

INFANT MASSAGE INSTRUCTION

Our team are all trained in Infant massage instruction which provides a wonderful
opportunity to support parent and primary caregivers, by helping them learn how to
lovingly and respectfully communicate with their babies through massage. The dolls
are photographed with hats and blankets that were created by the Evergreen Knit
and Crochet Club. The club provides the Infant Development Program with blankets
and hats that are gifted to babies in our program.

THE TEAM

DIXIE HUNT-SCOTT, PROGRAM MANAGER CHELSEY NEWTON JENNIFER MCINNES
& INFANT DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANT INFANT DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANT INFANT DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANT
FOR ABORIGINAL FAMILIES
COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 19

CVCDA PROGRAMS

EARLY INTERVENTION THERAPY

The Early Intervention Therapy (EIT) living (e.g., dressing, feeding oral motor skills required for drink-
Program provides community-based and swallowing), perceptual/ ing and eating. They provide support
services and supports to children cognitive skills (e.g., design in the areas of language understand-
between birth and school entry, who copying and sequencing), ing and use, social communication
have, or are at risk for, a developmen- sensory-motor skills (e.g., use (e.g., greeting people and play-
tal delay and/or disability, and their motor planning and tactile ing with peers), speech clarity (ability
families and communities. The Early sensitivity), functional play to produce and combine speech
Intervention Therapy Program consists skills, specialized equipment sounds), gestures, alternative or
of a team of therapists and therapy and environmental modifica- augmentative communication (e.g.,
assistants. This includes Occupation- tions (e.g., splinting, assistive sign language, picture symbols and
al Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech devices, technology and verbal output devices), fluency, and
Language Pathology, Speech Language home modifications), and swallowing and feeding issues.
Assistant and Therapy Assistant. posture control to support
function. Our Therapy Assistant and Speech
Our Occupational Therapists (OTs) Language Assistant perform com-
provide services that help families Our Physical Therapist (PT) ponents of therapy procedures and
and caregivers to develop the child’s provides services that focus on the related tasks selected by a supervis-
highest attainable level of participa- identification and promotion of ing therapist that include both direct
tion in all daily activities. They provide optimal movement development. and non-direct activities.
support to children and families in She provides support in the areas of
the following areas: fine motor skills neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, and
(hand function), activities of daily posture control. She also introduc-

es techniques in order to
promote the child’s highest
attainable level of participa-
tion, and provide and assist
in the use of splints, braces,
and other equipment to im-
prove positioning, function,
and mobility.

Our Speech-language Pa-
thologists provide services
that focus on verbal and
non-verbal communication
skill development and the

THE THERAPIES BUILDING

Our poor little therapy building has probably seen better days. We stand out
even more now that the beautiful Autism building glows next to us. However,
if you have the chance to enter our building, we have an amazing mural on the
wall to greet families that was painted by Charlotte Smith. We have also taken
some time to paint the therapy rooms in warm and inviting colours. Wall stick-
ers also adorn our walls with wild life and plants. A special shout out needs to
go to Matt, our amazing Handyman. He has made us shine a little brighter on
the outside. Thanks Matt!

20 COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

PROGRAMS IN ACTION One such child was a little babe who the level of service required. It is
came to us with a complete cleft also very rewarding when we see a
Many of our families have children palate. There were feeding issues, family get through a tough period
who require more than one service. hearing issues, torticollis and family with a plump happy little one ready
These children could have a diagno- stresses due to two other children to move on to learning to walk, talk
sis (e.g. Autism, Downs Syndrome, who also required extra support plus and play with his siblings.
Cerebral Palsy) or delays in more the many doctor’s appointments that
than one area due to other condi- were required for this little one. The THE TEAM
tions such as neurological differ- feeding team (occupational therapy
ences (e.g. muscle tone, sensory, and speech language pathology)
motor planning), structural (e.g. worked with the parents, the local
Cleft Palate, Spina Bifida) or trauma hospital and the feeding team in Vic-
based learning challenges. What- toria to help these parents feed their
ever the case, close collaboration little one. Physical Therapy worked
and planning is required so as not on the torticollis and head control
to overwhelm families and still meet to help with postural alignment
the most pressing needs of the child. and strengthening, making feeding
Service review meetings are crucial easier. Family support, Supported
to keep everyone on the team up Child Development and Infant Devel-
to date as is close monitoring of the opment were also a big part of the
Individual Service Plan to ensure team and supported the family in
we are carrying out therapy as the getting their older 2 to daycare and
family directed. The team also may school.
expand to community service pro-
viders and provincial services (e.g. Families such as this require much
Children’s Hospital). more time and planning to provide

MISSING PHOTO: KYLEE ABRAHAMSON, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST JENNIFER LEWIS
PROGRAM COORDINATOR & SLP

OSHRAT ZEMEL MARY MCKENNA TARA MOOSE
THERAPY ASSISTANT SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST SPEECH LANGUAGE ASSISTANT

NIKKI HOLEKAMP DIANNE AIKMAN CARLIN LINDSAY
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST PHYSICAL THERAPIST OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 21

CVCDA PROGRAMS

ABORIGINAL SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY

It has been an eventful year in our Program (parent participation). SURVEY SAYS
Program. Our much loved This has shown to be an important
Speech-Language Assistant, An- outreach component to answer Every year our program sends
drea Schabernak left her position questions and to help parents out an online survey to parents.
in April, 2018, to start a new life make referrals if needed. Over 70 Here are a few of their respons-
chapter. Our intensive search for a children received speech-language es from our most recent survey
replacement (February 2019):
SLA was re- support over the past year.
warded and we We have had a waitlist for “Easy, comfortable environment.
hired Jennifer services which has been Child loves the space and activ-
Legarie in Au- created largely because we ities. Engaging, dynamic, fun.
gust. When she did not have a full time Realistic activities to do at home.
was hired, Jenn Speech-Language Assistant Feels like a team approach to his
had almost for almost a year. learning and development. Love
completed her seeing the progress, especially
Speech-Lan- In January when he realizes it on his own -
guage Assis- 2019, 8 of so proud of himself.“
tant training our families
with Grant McEwan (20 partic- “Honestly I cannot say a single
University. Jenn com- ipants) at- bad thing about the services
pleted her practicums tended a Ce- provided. They have brought so
– one in the Fall with dar Weaving much improvement to both of
our Program and the Workshop our daughters.”
other with the VIHA hosted by
Speech-Language Pro- our program “I like the discussion between me
gram. She completed and present- and the therapist before trying
her training in early April 2019, and ed by Avis new tools. She is easy to talk to
is now a fully fledged Speech-Lan- O’Brien. One of our culture keepers and willing to find out answers
guage Assistant. shared songs around the big drum to all my questions. She also
with the children and families. Sev- focuses on my child strengths
Janice and Jenn attended the pro- eral parents spoke about the good to make him feel welcome and
vincial Speech-Language Association medicine that communing with build a relationship with him.”
Conference in Victoria in October others around the drum and cedar
2018. One full day of the conference brought to their spirit.
focused on providing services to
Indigenous families. THE TEAM

Janice was invited to be a service
provider for children with hearing
loss with the BC Early Family Hear-
ing Program. This program provides
specialized support to children aged
birth to 5 with hearing loss. Janice
attended the BCEFHP conference in
October 2018.

We continue to serve the children JANICE FORSEY JENNIFER LEGARIE
in our programs such as; Aborigi- SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST SPEECH LANGUAGE ASSISTANT
nal Head Start Preschool, Friday’s
Child (FASD/ADHD/Other) Program
and the Early Years Aboriginal

22 COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

EARLY YEARS CENTRE

The Early Years Centre (EYC) is a
program designed to make services
available to all families with children
under 6 in the Comox Valley. It has
three primary components:

Valley Child is an on line platform Photo: Comox Valley Schools
providing information on programs
and services for young children. The Resource Fair
Valley Child website and Facebook
page has become the “go to” source A highlight of EYC programming this Comox Valley Family Services, Comox
for young families in the Comox Val- year was the Valley Child Resource Valley Lifelong Learning, Early child-
ley; the Enhancement program which Fair, held in partnership with the hood educators; Comox Valley librar-
provides outreach drop in program- Comox Valley Early Years Collabora- ies, Upper Island Women of Native
ming in every corner of the Valley; tive. The Resource Fair is a community Ancestry, and many of the profession-
and support to the Comox Valley celebration of all things Early Years. als from the other programs at the
Early Years Collaborative which brings It brings together a variety of service CVCDA. Each booth had information
together many service providers to providers in one location to share about each service as well as a fun
improve the integration of early years information about their programs activity for young children. There was
programs. There are presently 35 with the families who may need organized story telling, face painting,
members of the Collaborative. them. Some of the organizations singing and lots of excitement. This
represented were: School District #71, will be an annual event and we know
It is intended that EYC programming Public health dentistry and audiology; it will grow each year.
is available to all young families
in the Comox Valley. It particular- THE TEAM
ly intends to reach those families
that might have some challenges in
accessing information and resources.
The EYC aims to connect with fami-
lies in a preventative way – support-
ing them prior to potential issues
emerging for their children.

Cheryl Jordan is the EYC Coordinator
and has the responsibility for design-
ing and updating the Valley Child
website and Facebook page. She
also coordinates the activities of the
Early Years Collaborative.

Sandra Allen is the EYC Child Devel-
opment Consultant. In this role she
facilitates pop up child development
programming throughout the commu-
nity. She also partners with the City of
Courtenay in leading the Little Cruis-
ers program for 7 – 14 month olds.

SANDRA ALLEN CHERYL JORDAN
CHILD DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANT EYC COORDINATOR

COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 23

CVCDA PROGRAMS

SUPPORTED CHILD DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

“SCD is a Provincial program that facili- The children we serve are children Kim, Laura and Lindsay completed
the Partnerships: Positive Approaches
tates successful inclusion in early learn- to Behaviour Facilitators Training
ing programs (preschools, group child- with developmental delays or
care, family childcare and after school All SCD staff will soon be trained in
care) for children with extra support disabilities in their physical, Touchpoints (Alesha and Angie trained
needs by supporting children, families cognitive, communicative in May and Kim in the summer)

and early learning centre staff. or social emotional and Kathy, Marika, Laura, Lindsay and
Kim took Understanding Children’s
We may complete general develop- ”behavioural development. Social Emotional Development and
mental assessments and reports, we Behavioural Challenges - Mona Dela-
assist families, when necessary to find communicative or social emotional hooke
an early learning centre that meets and behavioural development.
A big part of what we do is providing
their needs, we provide kindergarten SCD Consultants have a variety of relevant formal and informal training
transition support and planning and skills and experience (Early Childhood to childcare providers and to families
we make referrals to other services. Education Diploma, Infant Develop- some highlights include:
We support early childhood programs ment/Supported Child Development
by providing resources, strategies, Diploma, Degree in Child and Youth CIRCLE OF SECURITY
suggestions and training. When ap- Care, Degree in Education or Degree
propriate we provide funding to early in a related field) This past year we received
learning programs to hire extra staff ongoing funding to present
Circle of Security Parenting
to facilitate the child’s successful par- We all continue to take advantage of Series. The funding allows us
ticipation in all parts of the program. numerous trainings and educational to dedicate time to present it
more frequently and systemat-
The children we serve are children workshop opportunities, highlights are: ically as well as a budget for a
light meal and childminding.
with developmental delays or dis- Congratulations to Lindsay and Alesha To date we have presented:
abilities in their physical, cognitive, who completed their IDP SCD Diploma
• 4 groups of parents (7 or 8
At the heart of the Supported Child Development Program are weeks)
the philosophies of “inclusion” and “family centred practice”.
• 1 “Stay and Play” Parent
Inclusion means… Family Centered Practice means… group (7 weeks) in partner-
ship with Healthy Families
…all children are welcomed, sup- …families know their children best,
ported and valued and are the most important and con- • 1 overview to ECE students
stant factor in their lives at North Island college
…all activities of playing, learning,
and growing happen in a way that …the needs of the family as a • 2 child care provider
children feel they belong whole are honored groups (8-10 hours)

…the child is in the best environ- …family strength, stability, history, We’ve had great feedback
ment to experience success regard- culture, and dignity is respected from the community and are
less of their diverse abilities now running a waitlist for
…families have the right and re- ongoing sessions.
…all children have different abil- sponsibility to make choices in the
ities and aptitudes; and an inclu- best interests of their children – and
sive setting accommodates and have those choices respected
builds on those
…families and professionals work
as a team

…services are flexible to meet
unique family needs sessions.

24 COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

• Partnerships: Positive Approaches Care Centres in the community. health (feelings, anxiety, separa-
to Behaviour We purchased: tion, grief etc.)
• Special seating
• Supportive Conversations • Materials for “sensory kits” and • Ear defenders
• Guidance and Inclusion: Things to “circle time kits
We also allocated money to Jump-
consider for school aged children • Larger equipment such as egg
chairs, tricycles, balance boards start Preschool for much needed
PROGRAMS IN ACTION and wagons. refreshing and replenishing of toys
and equipment.
Our program received some One • Children’s books to address chal-
Time Only (OTO) funding from MCFD lenging behaviours and mental
allocated for equipment for Child

THE TEAM

KATHY CRUICKSHANK
PROGRAM MANAGER

MARIKA GOULD, ANGIE DEJERSEY, SCD CONSULTANT FOR LAURA MCCAFFREY,
SCD CONSULTANT ABORIGINAL CHILDREN AND FAMILIES SCD CONSULTANT

LINDSAY MALLETTE KIM GRIFFITHS ALESHA GURR
SCD CONSULTANT SCD CONSULTANT SCD CONSULTANT

COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 25

CVCDA PROGRAMS 1
4
TOOLS OF THE TRADE 8

1) “Ear Defenders” - ear muffs can be beneficial for some clients who easily
become overwhelmed and over stimulated in loud spaces. Noise reducing head-
phones can help block out some of the background noises and allows a child to
regulate and process information that is most important.

2) “First/Then Visual” - this visual aid is based on Premack’s principal of reinforcing
a less preferred behaviour by awarding a privilege to engage in a more desired
behaviour. We’ve all heard the saying ‘you can have your dessert as soon as you
finish your dinner’. Along with motivational skill building, this tool can teach logical
sequence of events and visually clarify step-by-step instructions.

3) A collection of toys and items used across many of our programs. Some times
they are used here at the Centre or brought in during our Supported Child Devel-
opment Program visits to various early learning centres to use or borrow.

• “Doorbell House” - great toy for kids to practice manipulation while building
fine motor and problem solving skills.

• “Fidget Toys” - by keeping hands busy with this style of toy, clients can then
better regulate and focus.

• “Wiggly Seat” - the Sit Fit seat is used to enhance engagement and build core
strength during pre-school group activities.

4) Bubbles! - and blowing bubbles is not only calming for children but also offers
many developmental opportunities. In the area of Speech and Language Therapy,
blowing bubbles can assist in positioning and strengthening the tongue for sounds
produced in the back of the mouth. Additionally, it can strengthen abdominal mus-
cles for sustained speech and increased sentence length. Who doesn’t love bubbles?

5) Visual Timer - used to help young children to “see” time pass. Even young chil-
dren instinctively understand that when the red disk is gone, time is up. Seeing this
can ease stressful transitions by showing “how much longer”and increase a child’s
confidence and independence.

6) “The Clicker” - an Autism Interventionist tool for collecting data on behaviours and
skills their client regularly displays. Sometimes multiple counters can be used to track
multiple behaviors. Data can then be used to further refine the child’s service plan.

7) Drum - Originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, this drum now resides in our
Aboriginal Speech-Language Program. The drum is used to sing songs either made
up songs with children and parents or indigenous and traditional songs that we
have permission to sing. Drumming and singing is often the highlight of our ses-
sions. The beat of the drum is healing. When children learn to keep the beat with
the leader, it supports language development.

8) “Magical Egg Chair” - provides a quiet space for children in a busy environment.
The chair can facilitate self regulation by eliminating visual and auditory stimulation
and social stress. The child can take the time they need to regroup and regulate.

9) Car & Electronics - many of our professionals are regularly on the go and out in
the community at various early learning centres and in-home visits. They could not
do their job with out their computers, cell phones, day timers and of course, their
vehicles! Staying connected with electronics is key to staying organized on the go.

26 COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

2
3

5 7
6

9

COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 27

CVCDA PROGRAMS

THE AUTISM PROGRAM

We provide Positive Behaviour sup- “ We utilize a family-centered We can also provide in home obser-
port and intervention for children approach. This means that vations and support strategies to
who are diagnosed with Autism help manage behaviour challenges
in other environments or situations.
Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Children support and interventions
range in age from 2-19. are individualized for families One of our favourite programs is
Camp Oasis. Our teen camp runs for
At TAP, we believe our families and the child and that parents two weeks in the summer and is an
are the experts on their children opportunity for our teens to enjoy
and work with parents to develop are the most important a fabulous summer experience with
supports that are in the best interest their peers.
of them and their child. TAP utilizes ”members of our team.
research-based therapies and strate- We are a diverse group of profes-
a family-centered approach. This sionals that include a Psychologist,
Board Certified Behaviour Analyst,
means that support and interven- gies that are shown to be best prac- Behaviour Consultant, Associate
Behaviour Analyst (in progress), and
tions are individualized for families tice in Autism intervention and ther- Behaviour Interventionists.

and the child and that parents are apy. As a team it is very important to

the most important members of us to provide children and families

our team. Our program implements with an individualized program.

28 COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

Camp Oasis experience for all involved. Camp- Dragons group throughout the two
ers, volunteers and staff all enjoyed weeks of camp and it was a big hit.
This is a two-week summer day a variety of activities such as rock We are happy to report he is coming
camp held at the end of July for climbing, mini golf, bumper boats, back this year and is turning into
youth between the ages of 12-19 suspension bridge, Errington Ani- an amazing leader. A big thanks to
with a diagnosis of ASD. The camp mal recovery center, Monster Truck the Waichiay Friendship centre for
is based at the CVCDA and includes rides, Boating and a surprise activ- the use of their 15 passenger van
daily outings throughout the Comox ity Virtual Reality games. We were to help get us all around. Without
Valley and beyond. lucky to have one of our youth vol- their help and support we wouldn’t
unteer to facilitate a Dungeons and be able to enjoy all these activities.
The camp is led by staff with training
and experience in ASD. International THE TEAM JEN COOMBS
volunteers with Canadian Alliance for LEAD INTERVENTIONIST
Development Initiatives and Projects
(www.cadip.org) come from around
the world to help with the camp.

We also welcome local volunteers.
Prior to the camp all volunteers
take part in a week long training
about ASD and are involved in
camp planning specific to the camp
participants. The camp has been a
huge success since its start in 2006.

Camp Oasis 2018 was a fantastic APRIL STATZ
PROGRAM MANAGER

KATY MACDONALD-HEATH ROBERT CHUDLEIGH TALIA KERN
BEH INTERVENTIONIST BEH INTERVENTIONIST BEH INTERVENTIONIST

KATRINA VARDY MEREDITH TOWNSEND BRITTNEY HOWARD
BEH INTERVENTIONIST BEH INTERVENTIONIST BEH INTERVENTIONIST

COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 29

YEAR IN REVIEW

THE COMOX VALLEY AUTISM CENTRE

In December of 2018 we opened our ticularly in the school age popula- There are so many people to thank
new Autism Centre. This project has tion, we were just not able, in the for their support of the new build-
been a dream of the Association and old space, to meet the need. ing. Like so many CVCDA proj-
our community for many years. We ects, this building only happened
celebrated with our supporters at The new building is wonderful! As with because of the generosity of our
a gala Grand Opening and started any new space, there have been some community. In this case, there were
offering services in the new building growing pains as we have shifted the over 30 major donors whose contri-
in January 2019. service. However, the staff has quickly bution allowed us to “complete the
made the adjustment and are maxi- puzzle”. Very special thanks go to
Our Autism Program had been mizing the opportunity for services to Pippa Attwood for her brilliant ar-
operating out of cramped quarters flourish. The building is much bigger chitectural services, Lorraine Aitken
in our main building for many years with more rooms for individual inter- for overseeing all the details and to
and the space was becoming less vention. There is an incredible nat- Cale, Rick and Lacasse Construction
and less workable for staff and the ural light and a welcoming foyer for for their project management.
children they serve. The incidence families to gather. There is a brand new
of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) kitchen and a never before had laundry Also a shout out to our Board
is growing and as such the demand allowing staff to work with older youth members. It was a bit of a leap of
for our services was also increasing. on those everyday life skills. Probably faith that we could pull this off,
At present, 1 in every 47 children the most appreciated room is the new but their support never wavered.
in British Columbia are diagnosed gym. While it is not huge it still gives Together we dreamed it and to-
with ASD, over 250 of these chil- lots of rooms for bike riding, swinging gether we made it happen!
dren live in the Comox Valley. Par- and just generally jumping around.

30 COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 31

CVCDA PROGRAMS

VANCOUVER ISLAND
SUPPORTED CHILD DEVELOPMENT REGIONAL ADVISOR

KATHY CRUICKSHANK As the Regional Advisor for the Sup-
PROGRAM MANAGER & REGIONAL ADVISOR ported Child Development Program
(SCDP) I provide support and training
“ There are regional advisors for Infant Development, to SCD programs on Vancouver Island.
Aboriginal Infant Development (AIDP), Supported Support includes facilitating network-
Child Development and Aboriginal Supported Child ing opportunities, fielding questions
Development (ASCD) in each of the five around policy and procedure and dis-
”regions in the province of BC. seminating relevant information.

There are regional advisors for Infant
Development, Aboriginal Infant Devel-
opment (AIDP), Supported Child De-
velopment and Aboriginal Supported
Child Development (ASCD) in each of
the five regions in the province of BC.
We participate in Provincial Networking
meetings held by MCFD (via teleconfer-
ence or in person) at least twice a year.

This year was a busy year for Regional
Advisors across the province as we met
multiple times to discuss and provide
feedback about a number of Provincial
Policy Changes (Affordable Child Care
Benefit, Universal Child Care Proto-
types, Inclusion Pilots, Early Childhood
Educators Wage Enhancment….). In
addition I participated on the Training
Plan (Cultural safety and Trauma In-
formed Practice) Advisory for BCACDI.

I collaborated with the Vancouver
Island IDP Advisor in offering:

• One day of networking and one
day of training in May with Vanessa
Lapointe presenting on Assessment

• One day of networking in December

We also conducted a joint site visit
to the IDP and SCD programs in Port
Alberni in November.

IDP REGIONAL ADVISOR

The CVCDA partners with the Clements Centre in the Cowichan
Valley for the servcies of Terri Stamko, who is the Regional Infant
Development Program Advisor.

32 COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

JUMPSTART PRESCHOOL

Jumpstart Preschool is a Many long-standing families have start to further connect with
community based program registered their children over the the school community.
and is located in Courtenay years in Jumpstart. In fact, this com-
Elementary School. Jumpstart ing fall we will be welcoming several Jumpstart supported the
believes that children learn siblings into our classroom. North Island College Early
through play. We look at each Childhood and Care Educa-
child as a unique individual Jumpstart has developed strong ties tion program once again this
and foster a safe, nurturing with Courtenay Elementary through year. This year we mentored
and healthy environment. serving the many families that attend two students during their
Jumpstart promotes play- the school as well as through connec- practicums. Each year this
based learning where children tions made with the Courtenay Ele- proves to be not only a posi-
can practice literacy, numer- mentary staff itself. Jumpstart offers tive way to support our own
acy and social skills while help each year in several programs in field, but also enriches our
building self-confidence. the school such as Welcome to Kinder- program while bringing much
garten, Ready, Set, Go and the English happiness to the preschoolers.
We serve 3-5 year old Language Learning (ELL) group offered
children many of whom in the Strongstart room at Courtenay Jumpstart has established a
reside in the Courtenay Elementary Elementary. These events and groups partnership with the Project
School catchment. are community based and have provid- Inclusion program. A young adult
ed a wonderful opportunity for Jump- from the program volunteers an hour
Jumpstart is staffed by three early once a week in the preschool.
childhood educators. Holly Edwards
is the Program Coordinator. Heather Jumpstart benefitted from a one-time
Grealey is the Early Childhood Educa- only grant through Supported Child
tion Assistant and Donna Thordarson Development this year. The funds were
is the Program Support Worker. used to replenish equipment in the room
as well as some new toys which have
PROGRAMS IN ACTION been greatly appreciated by everyone.

Holly Edwards was hired as Jumpstart’s This year it is worth mentioning that
Early Childhood Education Assistant we have been invited to introduce our
when the program was launched in preschoolers to the kindergarten environ-
2007. Over the last twelve years, she ment in our school. We will do this with a
has been able to bear witness to the few students at a time. Our hope is that
program’s growth as well as the strong this will be extremely beneficial in allevi-
bonds that have been built within the ating some of the anxiety young children
Courtenay Elementary community. have when entering kindergarten.

ANNUAL HOME VISITS

Jumpstart benefits hugely from the annual home visits in HOLLY EDWARDS
August. The coordinator schedules visits with all their families PROGRAM COORDINATOR
registered for the program returning families as well as new
families. This has been a routine that was established from
year one! Home visits continue to be a key beginning to
the preschool year and has proven to be very effective in
supporting not only the children but also the families.

COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 33

CVCDA PROGRAMS

BEHAVIOUR CONSULTATION

The Behavioural Consultation pro- skills. Providing families with tools, PROGRAMS IN ACTION
gram is a provincially-funded support guidance and resources to inde-
program for families with a child pendently address future concerns is A family recently accessed the pro-
who has diverse abilities and presents also a priority. gram seeking support for their son
with some challenging behaviour. An who was engaging in significant
approach called Positive Behaviour The program serves children aged self-injury and aggression towards
Support is used to partner with fami- 3-19 with developmental disabilities others. We were able to work togeth-
lies to assist them with achieving their who are eligible for Children and er to determine why these behaviours
goals regarding their child’s behaviour Youth with Special Needs (CYSN) were happening and what kinds of
at home and in the community. services through the Ministry of Chil- unmet needs the boy had. We worked
dren and Families (MCFD). Families together to develop a plan incorpo-
Together with families and other team are referred to the program by their rating empirically supported strategies
members, we develop individualized CYSN social worker. that felt comfortable and achievable
assessments, behaviour support plans, for the family. For example, the family
and strategies for teaching children new “ An approach called started using visual supports with
skills. The strategies are then imple- their son and we systematically taught
mented by families in their own home Positive Behaviour Support him some new communication skills
with consultant support and training. to be sure his needs were met. His
is used to partner with parents learned ways to honour the
The program aims to reduce the new communication skills and to re-
child’s current challenging behaviour families to assist them with spond to his challenging behaviour as-
and to increase the child’s self-help sisting them in keeping everyone safe
skills and independence, as well as achieving their goals regarding while also reducing the aggression
social, emotional and communication and self-injury over time. This family’s
their child’s behaviour at home hard work resulted in very significant
decreases in aggression and self-injury
”and in the community. along with many new communication
skills for their son. We were also able
I am the only Consultant involved to increase his social connections with
with the CYSN Behaviour Consulta- peers and build his social skills. The
tion program at the CVCDA. I have parents reported that their quality of
enjoyed supporting children and life had improved, and that they felt
families in a variety of capacities much more confident in parenting
for several years. I have a Masters their son and addressing any concerns
of Education in Special Education that might come up in the future.
with a concentration in autism and
developmental disabilities, and am a
Board Certified Behaviour Analyst.

Check out this video:
Introduction to Positive
Behaviour Support

MEGHAN O’ROURKE
BEHAVIORAL CONSULTANT

34 COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

FAMILY SUPPORT WORKER

PROGRAMS IN ACTION

This past year, I have been co-fa-
cilitating the CVCDA’s Sibling
Support Group with Beth Fraser,
Family Advocate.

This group is an opportunity for
siblings of children with diverse
abilities to meet each other in a re-
laxed recreational setting. We play
games, do art activities and activi-
ties that involve movement to help
keep a light tone. And along the
way, we provide opportunities for
kids to share experiences and con-
cerns related to life with a sibling
with diverse abilities.

“ As Family Support Worker, I work closely There is never any obligation for kids
with families in their homes and in to share and we trust that children
the community to provide them with that don’t share a lot are learning
information, planning, guidance, advocacy, and benefitting from just listening to
”and problem-solving. the other kids in the group.

In the sibling support group, kids
have the opportunity to connect
with peers, learn how other chil-
dren handle situations commonly
experienced by siblings and discov-
er more about the significance of
their siblings’ diverse abilities.

Alongside other service providers ical travel expenses, and increasing We ran two groups this past year:
and Children and Youth with Spe- parenting and life skills. one for siblings ages 5-8 and anoth-
cial Needs (CYSN) social workers, I er for siblings ages 9-12.
help families identify areas that are I typically work with a family for a
challenging for them and create year, although sometimes the time SARAH SHELIN
priorities for service. is extended if there is still a need FAMILY SUPPORT WORKER
for support.
Some of the areas that I support
families with include accessing com- As Family Support Worker, I serve
munity programs and services that families who have one or more
they could benefit from, connecting CYSN-eligible children. These chil-
to social and recreational opportu- dren can range from age 0-19 and
nities for all family members, com- their families vary in composition
municating with schools, specialists and socio-economic background. My
and other service providers, finding support is also extended to all im-
housing, applying for funding for mediate family members including
specialized equipment and for med- siblings and parents.

COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 35

CVCDA PROGRAMS

COMMUNITY INTEGRATION PROGRAM

The Community Integration Program We encourage the youth to be self-direct-
(CIP) continued to offer opportunities ed, choose their activities and to grow in
for participants to practice social skills in their activity and involvement levels as
a variety of community settings and at they feel more and more comfortable.
the CDA. CIP provides an environment
geared to promoting positive relation- Wednesday evening girls group con-
ships and engagement between the tinues to focus on conflict resolution,
participants, independence and choice healthy boundaries for self and others,
in the use of the CIP resources, a sense personal hygiene, nutrition and exer-
of belonging, familiarity, safety and cise. The participants are given the op-
comfort in the community and support portunity to work through problems
in spontaneous positive self-expression in a healthy and safe forum.
with acceptance of self and others.

From talking to many parents of children sense of acceptance and belonging. SOCIAL SKILLS
with diverse abilities, they reported some
of their children experienced a sense of During the week we offer small group Over the last year, CIP introduced
isolation. Some youth lack opportunities activities daily after school and each eve- an online social skills program. The
to interact with their peers outside of ning based on the group’s common in- program we now utilize is designed
school and it is important the youth have terests. Activities have included bowling, for our youth to learn fundamental
a reason to get out of the house. The swimming, computer exploration, video skills of social interactions such as
Community Integration Program helps games, board and card games, music, arts conversation, body language and
to provide opportunities for friendship. and crafts, movie nights, window-shop- empathy. The first half of each
Relationships and friendships that result- ping, meal preparation and dining. group a staff member facilitates the
ed from community based education in opportunity for all participants to
elementary school seem to fall away as While the groups provide for different learn and practice social skills. The
the children reach high school. It is the activities, the emphasis of the groups second half of the group participants
goal of the CIP to give these children op- is not on the activities themselves but are provided opportunities to practice
portunities to be social with their peers, on the opportunities they provide for what they just learned while doing
experience the challenges and joys that participants to relate. Staff stays on their preferred activity. We experienced
come from developing new relationships. the periphery to provide safety. Staff is great success utilizing this program.
Participants are given the opportunity to also there to help debrief interactions Our goal is to help our youth achieve
expand their social horizons, feel com- between the participants and help them satisfying healthy relationships.
fortable in the community and to have a to find positive ways to meet their needs.
www.improveyoursocialskills.com

THE TEAM

BOB GAMBLE DEB NOLAN PENNY KAMPEN
PROGRAM COORDINATOR YOUTH WORKER YOUTH WORKER

36 COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

PATHWAYS TO HEALING PARTNERSHIP

Pathways to Healing Partnership works gage more effectively with families. The most effective trauma-informed, and
to support the needs of vulnerable Touchpoints training team is the first Ca- family centered care possible.
moms and families who have a history nadian team, and is currently preparing
of adversity/toxic stress, and may be to offer its third Comox Valley training Being grounded in the Neurosequential
pregnant or currently caring for young at the end of May, 2019. A training was Model of Therapeutics (NMT), PTHP
children who are living with the out- also conducted in Port Hardy. works with children, families, and
comes of developmental trauma. involved community partners, to create
“ Touchpoints is a practical an individualized therapeutic plan
In the past year we have expanded our which meets their clients’ unique needs.
focus from mostly family-based work to approach for building strong Through the use of various assessment
include facilitating the system change tools (which investigate brain develop-
that is required to support a trauma-in- family-child relationships from ment, attachment, caregiver stress vs.
formed lens. A significant vehicle for capacity, and childhood stages of devel-
this change is having a team travel to before birth through the earliest opment), we determine how our clients
Boston to become Touchpoints trainers. may benefit from the extra support we
This exciting opportunity was support- years, laying the vital founda- offer in collaboration with a wider fam-
ed by MCFD, CVCDA, Division of Family ily and community web of support. The
Practice, Children’s Health Foundation tions for children’s early learning results of these tools will also be used
of Vancouver Island, Comox Valley to advocate for our children and their
Hospital Foundation. It took incredible ”and healthy development. families in a variety of support settings,
collaboration and determination to such as the hospital, school, daycare,
make this happen. We are very grateful Our team recognizes the critical impor- and in applying for services. One of the
for our strong partnerships that allowed tance of early life experiences, and that most powerful roles our team has, is
this to become a reality. Brazelton children who develop in adversity may in helping people see individuals who
Touchpoints is a practical approach for face later functional difficulties such as are living with the outcomes of ear-
building strong family-child relationships poor impulse control, caregiver attach- ly trauma, through an empathic and
from before birth through the earliest ment challenges, aggression, emotional developmentally informed lens. This
years, laying the vital foundations for reactivity, anxiety, depression, sleep prob- understanding can help the systems
children’s early learning and healthy de- lems, attentional difficulties, and difficul- supporting a family, to compassionately
velopment. The Brazelton Touchpoints ty at school/daycare. The team also rec- understand why members of that fam-
Center collaborates with providers, orga- ognizes the impact which early relational ily may be experiencing certain current
nizations, systems of care, and commu- adversity has on experiences throughout life challenges, which could otherwise
nities who understand that to improve pregnancy, childbirth, and parenthood. be misinterpreted in more negative and
outcomes for children, they must en- PTHP works to support systems in under- discriminatory ways.
standing and responding to the needs
of these families, in order to provide the

THE TEAM

JAN FERENCE ANDREW MCKENZIE VANESSA HITCHCOCK
PROGRAM DIRECTOR CHILD TRAUMA CONSULTANT PERINATAL TRAUMA CONSULTANT

COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 37

CVCDA PROGRAMS

PROJECT INCLUSION

“ Project Inclusion is an PROGRAMS IN ACTION their lives, and their experiences
adult (19+) program for in adulthood thus far have proved
2018 saw our program evolve and invaluable to our ‘junior’ participants.
people with diverse abilities grow. Our ‘senior’ members, most of These younger participants are just
whom have been with us since 2008, beginning their journey into adult-
currently operating with are now in their late twenties or early hood and toward increasing their
thirties, and have long surpassed the independence and finding their way
participants ranging in original goals they established for in the world. Having an older group
themselves eleven years ago. This of participants who are able to share
”age from 20 to 32. group primarily lives independently, their experiences, mentor and support
has obtained employment, and are our new generation has provided
Our participants work toward their confidently navigating their personal opportunities for growth in ways we
personal and professional goals with and professional lives with whatever couldn’t have predicted, and reinvig-
the support of their peers, Project support they require. They have spent orated many of our senior members.
Inclusion staff, and members of our several years building this indepen- The age diversity of our group has
community. These goals might in- dence and sense of connection in been a huge benefit to everyone.
clude; obtaining employment, mov-
ing out of their childhood homes,
learning to cook, health and fitness
or making connections in the com-
munity and fostering friendships.
Our group often attends community
programs and events, plans vacations
together and more elaborate road
trips to conferences.

We fundraise and decide what goals
we’re working toward as a team. At
Project Inclusion we make connec-
tions that facilitate independence
and self advocacy, friendship and
fun. Our team is lead by program
manager Wendy Hawksworth and
also employs program worker Christa
Herrling, and one to one workers
Donna Bacon, Sean Mathews, and
Shannon Phoenix.

FROM OUR PARTICIPANTS...

“We are one big happy family, here!” “I love going camping every
~ Amy year and going on our annual
road trips.” ~ Ryan
“I always feel supported, safe
& included when I go to Project “I like seeing my friends.” ~ Ben
Inclusion.” ~ Noella
“I like going to the driving
“I like the feeling of being with range.” ~ Cory
my second family.” ~ Erin

WENDY HAWKSWORTH
PROGRAM COORDINATOR

38 COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

FRIENDSHIP PROJECT

Friendship Project has been a great opportunity as the herself. The group
is made up of IBC offers many activities that are decided that they
about 20 adults adapted to meet individual needs, wouldlike the
who are eligible and as a result many new connec- next one to be less
for CLBC ser- tions have been made. structured and to
vice based on have more instru-
developmental ments for them to
diversities. We try, as well as a bit
are children, of karaoke. The
parents, neigh- following month,
bours, college we adapted the
students, day drumming cir-
program attend- cle to include:
ees, employees, guitar, mando-
and volunteers. lin, harmonicas,
We have autism, keyboard, and
and FASD, Down various percus-
Syndrome and sion instruments
other diagnosis. joined as mem-
We are artists bers sang classics
and musicians, and the facilitator
athletes and technology experts. As was asked to jot down words to a
well, family, friends, support staff, and “friendship Project theme song.”
volunteers are always welcome to join
us at the Comox Valley Child Develop- Swimming at the Wave Pool was sug-
ment and at community events. gested by a member who is part of the
Special Olympics Swimming Team, and
Friendship project helps individuals this gave the opportunity for us to be
build lasting friendships within the introduced to several other Team mem-
group and the community. Members bers, as well as getting some exercise.
choose activities and community events
of interest and we base a monthly cal- Music nights : Since several of our CLOVER STURROCK
endar around these suggestions. members play instruments, a drum- PROGRAM COORDINATOR
ming circle was added to our calen-
The I Belong Center/ Vanier suites dar, resulting in a huge turnout, and
has invited the group to attend their an excellent opportunity for one of
monthly potluck and activity night, our non verbal participants to express
after being introduced by a resident
who joined Friendship Project. This

COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 39

YEAR IN REVIEW

ALL CVCDA STAFF

MANAGEMENT TEAM

Joanne Schroeder
Lene Trieu

ADMINISTRATION & SUPPORT

Donna Bacon Matt Macey
Michelle Erikson Francesca Racho
Brooklyn Galloway Charlene Wallace-Dille
Sandi McDonald Robyn Walsh

PROFESSIONAL STAFF Vanessa Hitchcock Tara Moose
Laurel Hodgins Chelsey Newton
Kylee Abrahamson Nikki Holekamp Deb Nolan
Dianne Aikman Brittney Howard Meghan O’Rourke
Sandra Allen Dixie Hunt-Scott Shannon Phoenix
Daniela Bizama Cheryl Hynes Sharon Preston
Robert Chudleigh Cheryl Jordan Sarah Shelin
Jennifer Coombs Penny Kampen Lindsay Stack
Kathy Cruickshank Kyla Kennedy April Statz
Angie DeJersey Talia Kern Clover Sturrock
Holly Edwards Jennifer Legarie Donna Thordarson
Jan Ference Jennifer Lewis Meredith Townsend
Alexis Forbes Carlin Lindsay Debby Tutt
Janice Forsey Catherine Macdonald-Heath Katrina Vardy
Beth Fraser Laura McCaffrey Michele Walls
Bob Gamble Jennifer McInnes Sara White
Marika Gould Mary McKenna Tina Williams
Heather Grealey Andrew McKenzie Shelley Yanish
Kim Griffiths Alison McLean Oshrat Zemel
Alesha Gurr Lindsay Mallette
Wendy Hawksworth Sean Matthews
Lesley Henderson
Christa Herrling

40 COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

2018-2019 FIGURES

2018-2019 FIGURES

2018-2019 FINANCIAL DATA

2018-2019 Revenues By Program

29% Supported Child Development 3% 2% 2% 2% 1% 1%
16% Early Intervention 4% 11%
11% Infant Development 4% 29%
11% The Autism Program 4% 16%
8% Pathways to Healing 8%
4% PI
4% General revenue 11%
3% ASLP
3% Community Integration
2% Early Years
2% Behavioural Consultant
2% Family Support Worker
2% Friendship Project
1% Project Jump Start
1% Family Advocate

2018-2019 Revenue Sources

Other Revenue
14%

Service Fees
14%

Government 2018-2019 Total Expenses By Type
Contributions

72%

Other
10%

Specified program
expense
16%

Wages, benefits &
other
74%

42 COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

2018-2019 FIGURES

62% Courtenay Clients By Community
22% Comox 3% 3% 1% 0%
5% Cumberland
3% Black Creek 5%
3% Lazo
1% Royston 22% Comox
1% Merville
1% Campbell River 62% Courtenay
1% Hornby Island
1% Denman Island
1% Other
0% Fanny Bay
0% Union Bay

Clients Served By Program

265 - Supported Child Development (SCD) ASL FA PH PI FSW SCD OT
164 - Occupational Therapy (OT) SLP CIP BC ID
161 - Infant Development (ID) TAP
144 - Physical Therapy (PT)
139 - Speech and Language (SLP) PT
93 - Aboriginal Speech and Language (ASL)
50 - The Autism Program (TAP)
44 - Community Integration Program (CIP)
27 - Behavioural Consultant (BC)
14 - Family Advocate (FA)
13 - Pathways To Healing (PH)
11 - Project Inclusion (PI)
7 - Family Support Worker (FSW)

COMOX VALLEY CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION | 2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 43

CVCDA.CA @cvcda @cvcdatelethon @cv.cda

237 3rd Street, Courtenay, BC V9N 1E1 | [email protected] | 250.338.4288