Supporting Neurodivergent Children: Helpful Services and Resources

Neurodivergent children—those with conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other cognitive differences—often face unique challenges in education, social interactions, and daily life. However, with the right support, these children can thrive and reach their full potential. Understanding the available services and resources in British Columbia is essential for parents, caregivers, and educators who want to provide the best possible environment for neurodivergent children.

Recommended Resources from a Parent of a Neurodivergent Child

There are many different programs to support neurodivergent children. We understand how overwhelming it must be to navigate through them so we asked a parent with experience – Heather Carrell, of CoveWell Counselling. Not only is she an experienced counselor with adults and children, but she is also the parent of a neurodivergent child. Here are Heather’s top resource picks.

1. Rolling with ADHD – an online resource for Parents and Caregivers, Educators, Health Care Professionals, Teachers, and Teens.
2. The Worry (Less) Book: Feel Strong, Find Calm, and Tame Your Anxiety! – A Favourite Book for Parents to Read with their Children (Anxiety can be common with neurodiversity)
3. The Whole-brain Child: 12 Revolutionary Strategies To Nurture Your Child’s Developing Mind: a revolutionary approach to child rearing with twelve key strategies that foster healthy brain development, leading to calmer, happier children.
4. ADHD resources for children, youth and families through Vancouver Coastal Health
5. Autism and Neurodiversity in the Workplace A Free Online Course Offered by UBC

Neurodivergent Educational Support in British Columbia

The British Columbia Ministry of Education and Child Care provides special education programs and individualized learning plans to help neurodivergent children succeed. These programs may include:

• Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) – Legally binding documents outlining specific accommodations and goals tailored to a child’s needs, available through public and private schools.
• Student Support Services – Schools offer learning assistance teachers, resource programs, and specialized educators to support students.
• Specialized Schools and Programs – Institutions such as the BC School for the Deaf and specialized autism programs provide tailored education for neurodivergent students.
• Assistive Technology – Tools like speech-to-text software, audiobooks, and visual schedules are available through school boards and provincial programs.

Speak with your school district for support.

Neurodivergent Therapeutic Interventions

Various therapeutic services in British Columbia can assist neurodivergent children in developing essential skills. These include:

• Speech and Language Therapy – Available through BC Children’s Hospital, public health units, and private practitioners.
• Occupational Therapy (OT) – Supports sensory integration and motor skills development, accessible through local health authorities and private clinics.
• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) – A widely used approach for children with autism, funded in part by BC’s Autism Funding Program.
• Play Therapy and Social Skills Training – Offered through community organizations such as Canucks Autism Network and local counseling centers.

In addition, to support from practitioners, you can also get a FREE Leisure pass from many local community centres if you receive the Child Disability Benefit. Ask your local community centre for details.

Medical and Psychological Support

British Columbia has a range of medical and psychological services tailored to neurodivergent children, including:

• BC Children’s Hospital – Provides diagnostic services and specialized pediatric care for neurodivergent conditions.
• Child and Youth Mental Health (CYMH) Services – Free mental health support available through the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD).
• Autism Funding Program – Financial support for families to access private therapies and interventions.
• Psychological Assessments – Available through school districts, private psychologists, and organizations like the Pacific Autism Family Network.

Community and Family Support

Building a strong support network can make a significant difference in a neurodivergent child’s life. Some BC-based resources include:

• ACT – Autism Community Training – Provides workshops, resources, and support for families and professionals.
• Autism BC – Offers programs, support groups, and advocacy services for families across the province.
• Parent Support Groups – Local chapters of CHADD Canada and other organizations offer peer support and educational resources.
• Inclusive Recreational Programs – Organizations such as the Canucks Autism Network and Special Olympics BC provide sports and arts programs tailored for neurodivergent children.

Supporting neurodivergent children requires a comprehensive approach that includes education, therapy, medical care, and community involvement. Every child is unique, and finding the right combination of services tailored to their individual needs is key. By fostering a supportive environment and advocating for the necessary resources, parents and caregivers can help neurodivergent children thrive in all aspects of life.

More Services to Support Neurodivergent Children

Autism BC

AutismBC empowers the autism community with credible information and vetted resources to understand pathways to community supports. They use Their platform to highlight, celebrate, and amplify autistic voices and the voices of their members to raise acceptance of autism while promoting social inclusion throughout the province. 

The Cove Indoor Play

Inside Royal City Centre Mall
250-610 Sixth Street, New Westminster 

An inclusive, sensory-friendly play space where children can thrive, and parents can find moments of peace and community. Bring your child to enjoy dimmer lighting, a calming room, and well-thought-out play areas so they can enjoy stimulating activities at their own pace.

Kids First Pediatric Therapy

(778) 379-5862 [email protected]
Burnaby, BC V5J 3J1

Kids First Pediatric Therapy is a beloved community resource dedicated to supporting neurodivergent families. They blend expertise with creativity and curiosity to understand and nurture each child’s individual needs. By collaborating closely with families and schools, they ensure that every child’s unique learning profile is embraced and set up for success.
Check out their book series that supports neurodivergent kids!

LDS – Learn. Develop. Succeed. 

[email protected]
604/873-8139 
 

LDS provides research-informed, individualized student education for learners with complex learning needs, such as dyslexia and ADHD. Their neuroaffirming approach includes expert, evidence-based support with case management and progress monitoring. Their wraparound services include bursaries, assessments, and assistive technology. Their one-to-one learning support is available online across BC, in their learning centres, in schools, and in our mobile classroom. 

Social Kiddos

Vancouver, BC
[email protected]
604/345-1408
Free Consultation
@socialkiddosbc (IG)

Social Kiddos Consulting offers accessible and personalized services for neurodiverse children and their families. From behaviour consulting and intervention to parent coaching and Autism Funding support, their services are tailored to help your family thrive. Their team consists of certified Behavioural Consultants, Behaviour Interventionists, and Clinical Counsellors who are trained to support kiddos with Autism, ADHD, and SPD.
*Please note: A formal diagnosis is NOT required to engage in our services.

Please let us know what other supports you have discovered on your journey parenting a neurodivergent child.