LD Student Social

Programs

Small Group Social Program

Grades 6-8

LD Student Social is a small-group program for students who are experiencing secondary characteristics associated with learning difficulties (i.e., low self-esteem, poor social and/or emotional regulation) due to a diagnosed, identified, or suspected learning disability.

These sessions offer a safe and inclusive space for students with learning disabilities to meet and connect with other students who share similar life experiences as a result of their learning disability.

The goal of this program is to instill confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging among the participants while helping them to build coping and self-advocacy skills. Sessions incorporate a combination of discussion, instruction, and engaging games and activities in a small-group setting.

Questions? Contact Taylor Lloyd, Social and Community Program Coordinator | [email protected]

Program Eligibility

This program is intended for students who are:

In Grades 6 through 8 or Grades 9 through 10 at time of participation;
Diagnosed with, or suspected to have, a Learning Disability* (click here for the definition of a Learning Disability);
Not diagnosed/identified with an intellectual disability or have significant behavioural support needs.

While exceptionalities such as Autism, Mild Intellectual Disability, etc. may impact an individual’s learning, a Learning Disability is a specific impairment and is distinct from these and other exceptionalities.

Applications for the Fall 2026 program season are now open!

Applications for the Winter 2027 program open November 23!

Application Instructions

Program Details

Cost

Dates

Days of the Week

Duration

Time

Location

Grade 6-8 Group

Cost

$100.00*

Dates

January 20 - April 7

Days of the Week

Wednesdays

Duration

8 weeks

Time

6:00 - 7:00 pm

Location

Our Lady of the Holy Rosary School, Thorold**

*Fees subject to change. Subsidy or payment plans may be available.
**Program will not run February 10 (Ash Wednesday), March 15-19 (March Break)
**Location tentative and subject to change.

Participant Testimonials

My daughter has formed great friendships where she feels a sense of connection and belonging. I have seen my daughter gain confidence in her ability to self advocate. […] My child has gained friendships, increased her self confidence and gained valuable coping strategies. I have made great connections with other parents and have also found positive support as a result of being connected to the LDANR. Thank you to everyone who made this wonderful program possible. I’m grateful for the confidence boost and sense of belonging this group created for my daughter.

Our daughter became more comfortable and open about her learning disabilities. It made it easier to talk about her disabilities, her needs, and to discuss how I can support/advocate for her at school. It helps reduce her vulnerabilities and it helps to empower her and help her feel more comfortable with accepting who she is. It also helps her to see that she is not alone.