Events

Our Drop-in Social Communication workshops are back!

Join us to learn Strategies for Entering Conversations!

Tuesday, April 16, 2024 

4:00 – 5:30 p.m.

In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW) 

or Online via Sinneave Connects

Starting a conversation with someone new or joining in a conversation that is already underway can be difficult. In this session, we’ll learn and practice a few strategies to help you enter into conversations more confidently.

This session is one of six drop-in workshops designed to provide autistic and neurodivergent individuals opportunities to learn and practice essential social communication skills. Each 90-minute workshop covers a different aspect of social communication, providing information, tips and strategies to help autistic and neurodivergent individuals to connect and thrive in social situations.

There is no cost to attend these sessions.

Advance registration is not required – you can attend them all (we recommend this!) or just the ones that seem interesting to you. Attending in person is a great way to meet new people and get hands-on practice. If attending in-person isn’t possible for you, you can also choose to attend virtually via Sinneave Connects, our online learning portal. Sinneave Connects is FREE, but you must register for an account to use it.

If you already have a Connects account, just log in as usual. If you have not registered yet, it’s easy! Click the button below that says “Sinneave Connects” to access the portal and follow these steps:

  1. Create a user name
  2. Create a password (don’t forget to save it someplace handy)
  3. Select “Register”
  4. Choose the Drop-in Workshop 2 – Strategies for Entering Conversations course to access the virtual link.

Sinneave Connects

Other Social Communication Workshop topics include:

The Art of Non-verbal Communication: Learning how to tell if others want to talk with you
Do you find it challenging to know if people are interested and willing to talk with you? In this session, we’ll talk about non-verbal communication and learn some of the visual cues and strategies you can use to find out.

Strategies for Entering Conversations: Easy ways to start or join social conversations
We know that starting a conversation or joining in a conversation that is already underway can be difficult. In this session, we’ll learn and practice a few strategies to help you enter into conversations more confidently.

Strategies for Exiting Conversations: Easy ways to end or leave a conversation
How do you end or leave a conversation when it’s time to go? In this session, we’ll talk about strategies you can learn and practice to help you leave a conversation or end a conversation in tactful ways.

Electronic Communication: Strategies for managing electronic communication and maintaining good mental health
Technology is rapidly changing and advancing. While we embrace the good things it has to offer, it has also introduced many new challenges. In this session, we’ll talk about the implications of online safety and discuss strategies for navigating electronic communication and maintaining good mental health in the process.

Establishing Social Connections: 5 Pro-tips for developing social relationships in your community
Meeting new people and making friends isn’t always easy. In this session, we’ll share 5 tips you can practice and use when it comes to making friends and maintaining social relationships.

Handling Disagreements in communication: Tips for keeping your cool
Do you find it difficult to communicate when someone disagrees with you? In this session, we’ll talk about conflict and share tips to help you keep your cool when you’re in the middle of a disagreement, as well as provide strategies to help you work through it.

If you have any questions about these workshops or if you need help navigating the Sinneave Connects online learning portal, please reach out by email at info@sinneavefoundation.org OR call us at 403 210-5000. We’re here for you!

Did you know? We have a quick access button to Sinneave Connects on our Homepage.

A screen grab of sinneavefoundation.org homepage with an arrow pointing to the Sinneave Connects button in the upper right corner

Questions? Contact Us!

Events

Our Drop-in Social Communication workshops are back!

Join us for The Art of Non-Verbal Communication

Tuesday, April 9, 2024 

4:00 – 5:30 p.m.

In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW) 

or Online via Sinneave Connects

Much of our everyday communication involves non-verbal body language and unwritten social rules. Many autistic and neurodivergent people find it challenging to navigate social situations because they have a hard time interpreting various forms of non-verbal communication. But these skills can be learned!

This session is one of six drop-in workshops designed to provide autistic and neurodivergent individuals opportunities to learn and practice essential social communication skills. Each 90-minute workshop covers a different aspect of social communication, providing information, tips and strategies to help autistic and neurodivergent individuals to connect and thrive in social situations.

There is no cost to attend these sessions.

Advance registration is not required – you can attend them all (we recommend this!) or just the ones that seem interesting to you. Attending in person is a great way to meet new people and get hands-on practice. If attending in-person isn’t possible for you, you can also choose to attend virtually via Sinneave Connects, our online learning portal. Sinneave Connects is FREE, but you must register for an account to use it.

If you already have a Connects account, just log in as usual. If you have not registered yet, it’s easy! Click the button below that says “Sinneave Connects” to access the portal and follow these steps:

  1. Create a user name
  2. Create a password (don’t forget to save it someplace handy)
  3. Select “Register”
  4. Choose the Social Communication Workshop 1: The Art of Non-verbal Communication course to access the virtual link.

Sinneave Connects

Other Social Communication Workshop topics include:

The Art of Non-verbal Communication: Learning how to tell if others want to talk with you
Do you find it challenging to know if people are interested and willing to talk with you? In this session, we’ll talk about non-verbal communication and learn some of the visual cues and strategies you can use to find out.

Strategies for Entering Conversations: Easy ways to start or join social conversations
We know that starting a conversation or joining in a conversation that is already underway can be difficult. In this session, we’ll learn and practice a few strategies to help you enter into conversations more confidently.

Strategies for Exiting Conversations: Easy ways to end or leave a conversation
How do you end or leave a conversation when it’s time to go? In this session, we’ll talk about strategies you can learn and practice to help you leave a conversation or end a conversation in tactful ways.

Electronic Communication: Strategies for managing electronic communication and maintaining good mental health
Technology is rapidly changing and advancing. While we embrace the good things it has to offer, it has also introduced many new challenges. In this session, we’ll talk about the implications of online safety and discuss strategies for navigating electronic communication and maintaining good mental health in the process.

Establishing Social Connections: 5 Pro-tips for developing social relationships in your community
Meeting new people and making friends isn’t always easy. In this session, we’ll share 5 tips you can practice and use when it comes to making friends and maintaining social relationships.

Handling Disagreements in communication: Tips for keeping your cool
Do you find it difficult to communicate when someone disagrees with you? In this session, we’ll talk about conflict and share tips to help you keep your cool when you’re in the middle of a disagreement, as well as provide strategies to help you work through it.

If you have any questions about these workshops or if you need help navigating the Sinneave Connects online learning portal, please reach out by email at info@sinneavefoundation.org OR call us at 403 210-5000. We’re here for you!

Did you know? We have a quick access button to Sinneave Connects on our Homepage.

A screen grab of sinneavefoundation.org homepage with an arrow pointing to the Sinneave Connects button in the upper right corner

Questions? Contact Us!

Events

If you enjoy playing board games and hanging out with a great group of people, you are invited to join the fun!

The Autism Awareness Club at University of Calgary  (AACUC) is hosting its last board game evening of the semester Wednesday, March 27.

Mark your calendar and plan to attend – you don’t have to be a U of C student to participate, anyone who enjoys games is welcome.

 

Wednesday, March 27

5:30 – 7:00 p.m. in the café area at the Child Development Centre  

3820 24th Avenue NW Calgary, AB (located at the Southeast corner of the University of Calgary campus, across from the Children’s Hospital and Ronald McDonald House)

 

There is no cost to attend, however attendees are asked to email autismawarenessucalgary@gmail.com to RSVP so organizers know how many people to expect and prepare for.

If you have any questions about this event, please email autismawarenessucalgary@gmail.com directly.

Keep an eye on our event calendar for a fun event to wrap up the semester in April – details coming soon!

Questions? Contact Us!

Events

Up to 90% of our communication is non-verbal. For people who struggle to read social cues and interpret body language, this statistic can be daunting. How can you communicate well if you have a hard time understanding non-verbal communication?

If you find interpreting body language and visual cues challenging, you don’t have to be left out of social situations. There are ways to learn these skills!

Join us for a fun and interactive session intended to help autistic and neurodivergent individuals become more aware of body language and its real-world benefits.

Attendees will be able to grasp and interpret basic body language, which will help improve both social and communication skills. Together, we’ll explore some of the most important non-verbal cues–those with both positive and negative connotations–and practice interpreting and understanding body language and unspoken messages.

Participants will also learn about the ways they hold their own bodies and the unintended messages they may be sending, and making adjustments to appear more positive, engaging and approachable.

Please note: During this session, Sinneave staff, guest presenters, and attendees may share information about community resources. Information provided may not always be accurate, up-to-date, or reliable. Attendees are encouraged to be critical consumers of information available on the internet. Providing information about a community resource is not endorsement and Sinneave does not assume any risk for the outcome of using the information shared during this session.

Thursday, April 18, 2024

4:00 – 5:00 p.m.

In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)

While attending in person may seem intimidating, it’s a great way to meet new people, connect with peers and practice practical skills. If you are unable to attend in person, you can also attend virtually through Sinneave Connects, our online learning platform.

If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, just log in as usual. If you haven’t yet opened an account, it’s easy! Click the button below that says, “Actions Speak Louder Than Words” to be directed to the portal and follow the prompts.

  1. Pick a user name
  2. Pick a password
  3. Select “Register”
  4. Choose “Actions Speak Louder Than Words” and enroll.

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

Please note: While advance registration is not necessary for most of our Learning & Connection activities (you are welcome to just pop-in), IF you do pre-register it helps us in our planning AND allows us to notify you in the event of a last-minute change or cancellation. Either way, we’d love to see you!

About the Presenter: Sherry Taylor has over 15 years of experience in the not-for-profit industry. She currently is the Program Coordinator with the EmploymentWorks program at Sinneave. She started working with the EW Online program and made the transition to the in-person program continuously developing curriculum and content for Autistic youth, adults, and persons with disabilities, and professionals.

If you have any questions about this session, please contact us by emailing info@sinneavefoundation.org or calling 403 210-5000.

P.S. Did you know there’s a quick access button to Sinneave Connects in the upper right corner of our Homepage.

A screen grab of sinneavefoundation.org homepage with an arrow pointing to the Sinneave Connects button in the upper right corner

Questions? Contact Us!

Events

Our next Art of Parenting…with Autism group meets Thursday, April 25 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. online via Sinneave Connects.

Each Art of Parenting session focuses on different aspects of parenting through the lens of being Autistic and/or parenting Autistic children. Through a short presentation, discussion and activities, participants will receive encouragement, support and practical short and long term strategies for navigating parenting in the healthiest way possible, with a focus on self-care and compassion.

This particular session will offer advice and provide strategies around sleep issues, routines and realistic goals that families can make and meet to help everyone get some sleep. Lack of sleep can make everything feel so much worse than it is! Together, we’ll look at short- and long-term options.

These sessions intend to educate, empower and encourage parents on their journey, as well as create a safe community of ongoing support. Participants will benefit from the practical information provided in each session as well as the connection of others who share similar experiences.

During this session, Sinneave staff, guest presenters, and attendees may share information about community resources. Information provided may not always be accurate, up-to-date, or reliable. Attendees are encouraged to be critical consumers of information available on the internet. Providing information about a community resource is not endorsement and Sinneave does not assume any risk for the outcome of using the information shared during this session.

This session is FREE and entirely virtual, via our Sinneave Connects online learning platform.

If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, just log in as usual. If you haven’t yet opened an account, it’s easy! Click the button below that says, “The Art of Parenting – April 25” to be directed to the portal and follow the prompts.

  1. Pick a user name
  2. Pick a password
  3. Select “Register”
  4. Choose “The Art of Parenting – April 25” and enroll.

The Art of Parenting – April 25

About the Presenter: Joannie Rosevear is a neurodivergent mother of five beautiful children. She is passionate about supporting and encouraging other families so they don’t feel alone in their journey. Her personal experience in parenting children both on and off the spectrum informs the work she does as a Program Facilitator with The Sinneave Family Foundation, knowing that, while books, resources and professionals are helpful, connecting with someone with lived experience and who “gets it” can be truly empowering.

If you have any questions about this event or if you need support navigating  the Sinneave Connects learning hub, please email info@sinneavefoundation.org or call 403 210-5000. We’re here to help!

Please note: While advance registration is not necessary for most of our Learning & Connection activities (you are welcome to just drop-in), IF you do pre-register it helps us in our planning AND allows us to notify you in the event of a last-minute change or cancellation. Either way, we’d love to see you!

P.S. The quick access button to Sinneave Connects is on the upper right corner of our Homepage.

A screen grab of sinneavefoundation.org homepage with an arrow pointing to the Sinneave Connects button in the upper right corner

Questions? Contact Us!

Events

You’re invited to find community with our Women’s Group. In each meeting we provide timely information on topics that are important to Autistic women. These sessions are intended to provide a safe space for women to connect, ask questions, share stories, and enjoy valuable peer connection.

In this particular session, we will discuss various aspects of being autistic and what that means and looks like in day-to-day life. We will share our lived experiences and some of the strategies that can help in navigating a neurotypical world with autism.

Please note: During this session, Sinneave staff, guest presenters, and attendees may share information about community resources. Information provided may not always be accurate, up-to-date, or reliable. Attendees are encouraged to be critical consumers of information available on the internet. Providing information about a community resource is not endorsement and Sinneave does not assume any risk for the outcome of using the information shared during this session.

All are welcome no matter how you identify, however, please be aware that information and resources provided are based on female assigned at birth. All gender expressions are welcome.

Join us Thursday, April 4, 2024

4:00 – 5:00 p.m. 

at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24th Avenue NW Calgary, AB) 

Attending in person is a great way to meet new people and practice essential social skills. However, if getting to The Ability Hub in person is a barrier for you, you can also attend online via Sinneave Connects, our online learning platform.

If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, just log in as usual. If you haven’t yet opened a FREE account, it’s easy! Click the button below to be directed to the portal.

  1. Pick a user name
  2. Pick a password (Don’t forget to record it somewhere safe for next time!)
  3. Register!
  4. Choose the “Women & Autism – April 4” event to enroll and access the virtual link.

Women & Autism – April 4

About the Presenters:

The Women’s Group is co-facilitated by two vibrant, Autistic self-advocates, who are passionate about sharing their lived experience and what it means to navigate life as neurodivergent women. Their hope is to create a safe space for autistic and neurodivergent women to learn from and help each other, make valuable peer connections, and have fun in the process.

If you have any questions about this session, or need help navigating Sinneave Connects, please contact us by emailing info@sinneavefoundation.org or calling 403 210-5000. We’re here to help!

Please note: While advance registration is not necessary for most of our Learning & Connection activities (you are welcome to just drop-in), IF you do pre-register it helps us in our planning AND allows us to notify you in the event of a last-minute change or cancellation. Either way, we’d love to see you!

P.S. The quick access button to Sinneave Connects is on the upper right corner of our Homepage.

A screen grab of sinneavefoundation.org homepage with an arrow pointing to the Sinneave Connects button in the upper right corner

Questions? Contact Us!

Events

We’re kicking off Neurodiversity Celebration Week with a celebration of all things Autism and you’re invited!

When we read or search about Autism online, one thing we notice is that a lot of the information uses negative-based and disability-focused language. Words like “inflexible”, “rigid”, “lack of” and “difficulty “are commonly found alongside the definitions of Autism.

However, we know that the medical model of disability which uses those terms doesn’t tell the whole story.

At The Sinneave Family Foundation, we are focused on changing the perception and language around Autism, starting with celebrating the many positive traits and characteristics common among Autistics and empowering those individuals to embrace who they are and what they have to offer.

In this celebration, we will shift the views on Autism towards the positives, amplify the strength and vibrancy of the Autistic culture, and ways we can support Autism inclusion in the workplace and in life. The event will include a short presentation, information sharing, and discussion in a safe and welcoming small group environment.

Tuesday, March 19, 2024

4:00 – 5:00 p.m.

at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24th Avenue NW Calgary, AB) OR virtually via Sinneave Connects, our online learning platform.

If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, just log in as usual. If you haven’t yet opened an account, it’s easy! Click the button below that says, “Celebrating Autism! – Jan 4” to be directed to the portal and follow the prompts.

  1. Pick a user name
  2. Pick a password (Don’t forget to record it somewhere safe for next time!)
  3. Select “Register”
  4. Choose “Celebrating Autism! – Mar 19” and enroll.

Celebrating Autism! – Mar 19

Please note: While advance registration is not necessary for most of our Learning & Connection activities (you are welcome to just pop-in), IF you do pre-register it helps us in our planning AND allows us to notify you in the event of a last-minute change or cancellation. Either way, we’d love to see you!

About the Presenter: Sherry Taylor has over 15 years of experience in the not-for-profit industry. She currently is the Program Coordinator with the EmploymentWorks program at Sinneave. She started working with the EW Online program and made the transition to the in-person program continuously developing curriculum and content for Autistic youth, adults, and persons with disabilities, and professionals.

If you have any questions about this session, please contact us by emailing info@sinneavefoundation.org or calling 403 210-5000.

P.S. Did you know there’s a quick access button to Sinneave Connects in the upper right corner of our Homepage.

A screen grab of sinneavefoundation.org homepage with an arrow pointing to the Sinneave Connects button in the upper right corner

Questions? Contact Us!

Events

If you enjoy playing board games and hanging out with a great group of people, you are invited to join the fun!

The Autism Awareness Club at University of Calgary  (AACUC) is hosting its next board game evening Wednesday, March 13.

Mark your calendar and plan to attend – you don’t have to be a U of C student to participate, anyone who enjoys games is welcome.

 

Wednesday, March 13

5:30 – 7:00 p.m. in the café area at the Child Development Centre  

3820 24th Avenue NW Calgary, AB (located at the Southeast corner of the University of Calgary campus, across from the Children’s Hospital and Ronald McDonald House)

 

There is no cost to attend, however attendees are asked to email autismawarenessucalgary@gmail.com to RSVP so organizers know how many people to expect and prepare for.

If you have any questions about this event, please email autismawarenessucalgary@gmail.com directly.

Other dates this semester are: 

Wednesday, March 27

Questions? Contact Us!

Events

Learn more about EmploymentWorks Online – a program for individuals who enjoy the flexibility and convenience of learning at their own pace and schedule.

You’re invited to join us for a virtual Lunch & Learn hosted by Autism Society Alberta’s Family Resouce Centres.

Monday, March 18, 2024

12:00 – 1:00 p.m.

The online format and user friendly design of EW Online makes the program highly accessible by removing barriers to participation related to location, transportation, or fixed program schedules. To participate, all that is required is access to a computer or tablet, and a reliable internet connection. The program transforms the EmploymentWorks curriculum into a highly engaging learning experience, jam packed with interactive features, tools and resources, and offers a new way for autistic youth, adults and persons with disabilities to prepare for, find and keep jobs.

During the program, individuals can connect with program facilitators as needed to ask questions, discuss program content, and receive optional 1:1 job seeking support. When employment is gained during the program, on-the job supports are available to support integration into the workforce, such as equipment to perform job tasks, job coaching, and a wage subsidy that can be used by employers to help cover onboarding and training costs. Other program benefits include access to on-demand mental health resources and supports, and a unique communication tool to connect with program facilitators.

If you or someone you know is looking to develop essential pre-employment skills, attending this information session is a great way to start.

Reserve your spot today by clicking the button below.

Virtual Presentation – EmploymentWorks Online

 

Presenter Bio:
Ian Humphreys is a dedicated Employment Advisor at the Sinneave Famly Foundation. With the perspective of a neurodivergent self-advocate, Ian brings a unique outlook to his role. Currently overseeing EmploymentWorks program at The Ability Hub, Ian leads the delivery of in-person and online initiatives, ensuring successful participant outcomes. Ian’s expertise extends to advising the EmploymentWorks National Project, where he provides insights, innovation, and guidance to drive program success nationwide.

Questions? Contact Us!

Events

Are you or someone you know neurodivergent?

Are you interested in creating a more inclusive community for everyone?

If so, this is the presentation for you!

Join us for a virtual Lunch & Learn Thursday, March 14th from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.

We will start with a brief introduction of who we are and then dive into the 6 Principles that are instrumental in creating environments where everyone can thrive.

These 6 Principles – Communication, Environment, Structure, Flexibility, Emotion and Connection – are informed by and created collaboratively with Autistics themselves. We’ll go over each one, from tackling communication breakdowns to adding structure for success. And guess what? These Principles are not just for neurodivergent folks; they are for anyone aiming to create an inclusive, welcoming space at work or in their community. Towards the end of the presentation, we will open the floor to any questions and discussions! We are all about fostering inclusivity, so let’s create spaces where everyone can shine!

There are a few tickets remaining, so don’t delay. Click the button below that says “6 Principles to Inform Action” to reserve your spot.

6 Principles to Inform Action

 

About The Presenter:

The Sinneave Family Foundation is an operating foundation that works with individuals, communities, and organizations across Canada to reduce barriers and enhance opportunities in education, employment, and housing for Autistic youth and adults. Our vision is that people live, learn, work and thrive in their communities and realize their desired futures. We are based out of Calgary and serve all of Alberta.

Amy Tatterton is the Director of Learning and Connection for the Sinneave Family Foundation. She provides leadership to knowledge exchange activities and community engagement initiatives that help Sinneave fulfill its mission of reducing barriers and enhancing opportunities for autistic youth and adults. Amy holds a Master of Education in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Calgary with a concentration in Educational Research and has specific interest in neurodivergence and cooccurring mental health concerns. Amy is a born and raised Calgarian with personal and professional experience in a variety of environments that support neurodiverse individuals including sport, post-secondary supports, pediatric behaviour intervention, early childhood learning management and now adulthood transition support. When she’s not working, Amy loves to spend time outside – golfing, skiing, camping and hiking!

Questions? Contact Us!

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