Parent Support Group

Parents and/or Guardians are invited to join a community to support and be supported by other parents and/or guardians of learning-disabled children.  This is an opportunity to meet virtually, once a month, to share common experiences while addressing challenges and strategizing solutions in a positive way.  By creating a safe and inclusive space, LDAPEI will help bring awareness to the concerns of parents and guardians and foster confidence in participants, in feeling they are not alone in navigating and advocating for their child.

Those interested in attending are asked to inquire by emailing info@ldapei.ca . Please note that spots are limited, there is no fee to attend, and LDAPEI does not offer clinical support services such as counselling and diagnosis via this support group.

This open, supportive, and educational setting will offer

• An informal community-based peer support group facilitated by a parent of a child with a learning disability,
• A safe and respectful space to share experiences and learn from others,
• A sense of belonging and mutual understanding,
• Themed sessions to help address common parental struggles,
• Recommended tools and resources; and
• Presentations by guest speakers.

To ensure participants have a positive experience, the facilitator(s) will

• Manage the structure of the discussion by opening the session for input by participants, followed by engaging others to offer suggested solutions based on mutual experiences,
• Keep the group on task and help avoid moving away from topics of importance,
• Ensure everyone who wants to speak has time to do so in a respectful manner.
• Open and close the session within the scheduled time.

Participant Guidelines

• Respectful Participation – each person in attendance is welcome to ask questions and share their experiences in a turn-taking manner.  Zoom allows for turning mics on and off, as well as raising one's hand.  Participants are also invited to use the chat function to type in questions and ideas.
• Confidentiality and Discretion – LDAPEI asks that all discussions remain confidential, including the attendance list.  If participants wish to communicate in person outside of the larger group, they can do so if mutually agreed.
• Tone – LDAPEI recognizes that navigating systems and advocating for your child may not always be a positive experience and can trigger emotions such as frustration.  To ensure a positive experience for all in attendance, we ask that participants refrain from blaming.

Why Should I Attend a Peer-to-Peer Support Group?

• Talk with others about the impact of learning disabilities on your child, family, and friends.
• Discuss the stress of dealing with multiple professionals, learning a whole new vocabulary, and learning to advocate for your child.
• Find support and advice about services, about how to talk to educators about your child’s difficulties, and how to remain optimistic.
• Learn tips from other participants on how they have managed similar challenges.
• Develop confidence in your own observations about what your child’s needs and wants.

The sessions will be facilitated and managed by Darlene Oaks and Eloise D'Aubin.

If you have any questions or want to learn more, please reach out to us at info@ldapei.ca.