Updated: Registration for Skills Groups is now closed. Our next Executive Functioning Skills Group will run from April 4 through May 9. The application window for that group will open in early March. Stay tuned for updates to the event calendar.
Do you struggle with unexpected changes?
Do you have trouble getting started on tasks?
Or maybe you have trouble stopping things you like to do when it’s time to do something you don’t like to do?
Have you ever avoided an experience or a person because of anxiety?
How about when you have a great idea, but have trouble creating and acting on a plan to get it done?
If so, learning more about Executive Functioning (EF) may be beneficial for you. Research has shown us that the skills underlying Executive Functioning can be taught, practiced and improved on. When EF skills are working, we tend to be happier and more productive.
We are excited to invite self-advocates and individuals who identify as autistic to attend this six-week Skills Group focused on Executive Functioning (EF). We will discuss and practice skills including: Cognitive Flexibility, Getting Started, Staying Present, Bringing your Anxiety along for the Ride, and Organization/Planning.
In this group, participants will learn about the importance of EF and how to improve EF skills through specific practice within a safe and supportive environment.
What are Skills Groups?
Skills Groups are skill development workshops that are facilitated by two Sinneave staff members (one is an autistic self-advocate). In each 90-minute workshop, participants learn a variety of strategies that are foundational to success in various aspects of daily life. They are then given opportunities to practice the strategies with the support of the facilitators and other group members.
Are Skills Groups for Me?
Skills Groups are best suited for autistic and neurodiverse individuals who…
- Are 15 years of age and older.
- Self-identify (or have been diagnosed) as being neuro-diverse and/or autistic.
- Are able to commit to 6 weeks of programming (90 minutes to 2 hours) once weekly.
- Are interested in learning and practicing key strategies that can have a positive impact on their daily routines.
- Can communicate verbally.
- Are willing to practice reflecting and sharing their thoughts with the group.
- Can reliably and independently participate in a group setting (e.g., arrive on time, communicate with group leader if you are unable to attend, do not require a one-to-one assistant).
- Will commit to keeping an open mind, and actively participating in program activities.
- Have reliable transportation arrangements to and from the program
If you can answer “Yes” to each of the statements above, our Skills Groups may be a good fit for you.
How Do I Apply?
Because we keep the groups small, Skills Groups are in high demand. Enrolment is limited to 4-6 participants per group and individuals may only register for one group at a time to allow for the greatest participation.
All applications are completed online. The online application portal opens three weeks before the start of the next Skills Group. When the application window is open, the link to apply will be LIVE on this page. (If you don’t see a link, we are not currently accepting applications.)
Please Note: Skills Groups are not intended for support workers, aides, caregivers, or other professionals.
If you would like more information about a particular group, please contact us at 403-210-5000 or info@sinneavefoundation.org to book an Information and Navigation meeting to learn about other programs and services.
Updated: Registration for Skills Groups is now closed. Our next Executive Functioning Skills Group will run from April 4 through May 9. The application window for that group will open in early March. Stay tuned for updates to our event calendar.
Do you struggle with unexpected changes?
Do you have trouble getting started on tasks?
Or maybe you have trouble stopping things you like to do when it’s time to do something you don’t like to do?
Have you ever avoided an experience or a person because of anxiety?
How about when you have a great idea, but have trouble creating and acting on a plan to get it done?
If so, learning more about Executive Functioning (EF) may be beneficial for you. Research has shown us that the skills underlying Executive Functioning can be taught, practiced and improved on. When EF skills are working, we tend to be happier and more productive.
We are excited to invite self-advocates and individuals who identify as autistic to attend this six-week Skills Group focused on Executive Functioning (EF). We will discuss and practice skills including: Cognitive Flexibility, Getting Started, Staying Present, Bringing your Anxiety along for the Ride, and Organization/Planning.
In this group, participants will learn about the importance of EF and how to improve EF skills through specific practice within a safe and supportive environment.
What are Skills Groups?
Skills Groups are skill development workshops that are facilitated by two Sinneave staff members (one is an autistic self-advocate). In each 90-minute workshop, participants learn a variety of strategies that are foundational to success in various aspects of daily life. They are then given opportunities to practice the strategies with the support of the facilitators and other group members.
Are Skills Groups for Me?
Skills Groups are best suited for autistic and neurodiverse individuals who…
- Are 15 years of age and older.
- Self-identify (or have been diagnosed) as being neuro-diverse and/or autistic.
- Are able to commit to 6 weeks of programming (90 minutes to 2 hours) once weekly.
- Are interested in learning and practicing key strategies that can have a positive impact on their daily routines.
- Can communicate verbally.
- Are willing to practice reflecting and sharing their thoughts with the group.
- Can reliably and independently participate in a group setting (e.g., arrive on time, communicate with group leader if you are unable to attend, do not require a one-to-one assistant).
- Will commit to keeping an open mind, and actively participating in program activities.
- Have reliable transportation arrangements to and from the program
If you can answer “Yes” to each of the statements above, our Skills Groups may be a good fit for you.
How Do I Apply?
Because we keep the groups small, Skills Groups are in high demand. Enrolment is limited to 4-6 participants per group and individuals may only register for one group at a time to allow for the greatest participation.
All applications are completed online. The online application portal opens three weeks before the start of the next Skills Group. When the application window is open, the link to apply will be LIVE on this page. (If you don’t see a link, we are not currently accepting applications.)
Please Note: Skills Groups are not intended for support workers, aides, caregivers, or other professionals.
If you would like more information about a particular group, please contact us at 403-210-5000 or info@sinneavefoundation.org to book an Information and Navigation meeting to learn about other programs and services.
Do you have goals in employment, post-secondary education, or independent living? We want to help you create a plan to achieve them!
The Launch into Life! QuickStart Planning Tool is a resource designed to assist Autistic individuals in creating a personalized plan for success as they transition to adulthood.
You are invited to join this free, virtual workshop series where we will walk through the Launch into Life! QuickStart Planning Tool in a small group format.
Together, we’ll:
- break the information down into manageable steps,
- facilitate connection and rich discussions with peers in similar life phases, and
- help you take the first steps toward reaching your goals!
This 2-part virtual workshop series is open to Autistic Albertans ages 15+ and those in their support network. The sessions are designed to build on each other, therefore we ask participants to commit to attending both sessions.
We ask that participants take a look at the tool beforehand. You can access the document on our website HERE or in our *NEW* Sinneave Connects learning portal.
Registration and the workshop itself will all take place on Sinneave Connects. If you haven’t tried logging in yet, it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3.
1. Create an account and register with the portal. (If you are a return user, simply log in with the user name and password you previously created.)
2. Once logged in, you will be directed to the Event page.
3. Select the session (event) you want and click, Enroll into this session
You will receive a confirmation email sent to the address used at registration
Clicking the button below will direct you to the Sinneave Connects learning portal to register for this event.
If you have difficulty creating an account or registering for the event, please email info@sinneavefoundation.org for technical support.
You are invited to join Autism Awareness Club UCalgary (AACUC) for an Art Therapy Event!
Discover art therapy and learn how Autistic individuals use it as a communication tool to express their thoughts and feelings.
Channel your inner artist and practice drawing, colouring and painting.
Come join us for this relaxing event, complete with snacks.
Anyone can attend, including members and people who regularly attend our Board Game evenings.
Plan to attend and bring a friend!
Thursday, December 15, 2022
12:00 – 1:30 p.m.
@The Ability Hub – 300, 3820 24 Avenue NW Calgary, AB
As this is an in-person event, there are capacity limits.
To reserve your spot, click THIS LINK to RSVP.
If you have any questions about the event or the AACUC, please email Autism Awareness Club at autismawarenessucalgary@gmail.com
#ExperienceAutism is an innovative, free of charge service that offers a facilitated conversation for employers, post-secondary educators, and landlords interested in learning more about supporting positive interactions with people on the autism spectrum.
Focusing on Six Key Principles for Success, this work is instrumental in helping individuals and organizations develop ally-based actions that create and foster environments where everyone can thrive at:
- Building relationships
- Enhancing communication through collaboration
- Identifying and implementing proactive strategies for inclusion.
These six principles are broadly applicable and beneficial to anyone who wants to create safe, welcoming and inclusive spaces in their places of work.
#ExperienceAutism In-person Session at The Sinneave Family Foundation
Wednesday, November 23rd from 1-2:30 p.m. MST at The Sinneave Family Foundation.
We are located in the Child Development Centre at the University of Calgary – 300, 3820-24th Ave NW
Please note: the closest parking is a paid parking lot, however, free parking passes are available by emailing info@sinneavefoundation.org.
A virtual drop-in session is also being offered on Wednesday, November 30th from 2-3:30 p.m. MST on Zoom. Click here if you prefer to register for the virtual session.
If you would like to sign your organization up for your own #ExperienceAutism session please email info@sinneavefoundation.org.
#ExperienceAutism is an innovative, free of charge service that offers a facilitated conversation for employers, post-secondary educators, and landlords interested in learning more about supporting positive interactions with people on the autism spectrum.
Focusing on Six Key Principles for Success, this work is instrumental in helping individuals and organizations develop ally-based actions that create and foster environments where everyone can thrive at:
- Building relationships
- Enhancing communication through collaboration
- Identifying and implementing proactive strategies for inclusion.
These six principles are broadly applicable and beneficial to anyone who wants to create safe, welcoming and inclusive spaces in their places of work.
Virtual #ExperienceAutism Session at The Sinneave Family Foundation
When: Wednesday, November 30th from 2-3:30 p.m. MST
Where: Zoom (the Zoom link will be sent to you in your confirmation email after registering).
If you would like to sign your organization up for your own #ExperienceAutism session please email info@sinneavefoundation.org.
We want you to thrive!
Throughout November, we are pleased to offer a series of “Work on Your Communication” workshops designed to assist Autistic and Neurodivergent individuals enhance their social communication skills.
Each 90-minute workshop will cover a different aspect of social communication, providing information, tips and strategies on connecting and thriving in social situations. Participants will have the opportunity to learn and practice new skills, receive feedback and mentorship in a small group setting.
All sessions are conducted in-person at The Ability Hub, located on the 3rd floor of the Child Development Centre (3820 24th Avenue NW). There is no cost to attend and we’ll even cover your parking.
Advance registration is not required and you only need to attend the sessions that interest you. All sessions begin promptly at 4:00 p.m.
We can’t wait to see you there!
The workshop topics and dates are as follows:
Tuesday, November 1 – 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.
Tuesday, November 8 – 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.
Tuesday, November 15 – 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.
Tuesday, November 22 – Establishing Social Connections: 5 Pro-tips for successful social relationships.
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.
Tuesday, November 29 – Conversation 101: How to discover what you have in common with others.
Do you find small talk challenging? Do you sometimes find it difficult to connect with people and find common things to talk about? In this session, we’ll cover the basics of conversation and offer tips and strategies to assist you in finding common ground and talking points with others.
Tuesday, December 6 – Handling Disagreements: Top tips for keeping your cool.
Do you get frustrated when someone disagrees with you? Do you find it difficult to stay calm and composed? In this session, we’ll talk about conflict and share the top tips to help you keep your cool when you’re in the middle of a disagreement and strategies to help you work through it.
If you have any questions, please contact us at info@sinneavefoundation.org.
We want you to thrive!
Throughout November, we are pleased to offer a series of “Work on Your Communication” workshops designed to assist Autistic and Neurodivergent individuals enhance their social communication skills.
Each 90-minute workshop will cover a different aspect of social communication, providing information, tips and strategies on connecting and thriving in social situations. Participants will have the opportunity to learn and practice new skills, receive feedback and mentorship in a small group setting.
All sessions are conducted in-person at The Ability Hub, located on the 3rd floor of the Child Development Centre (3820 24th Avenue NW). There is no cost to attend and we’ll even cover your parking.
Advance registration is not required and you only need to attend the sessions that interest you. All sessions begin promptly at 4:00 p.m.
We can’t wait to see you there!
The workshop topics and dates are as follows:
Tuesday, November 1 – 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.
Tuesday, November 8 – 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.
Tuesday, November 15 – 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.
Tuesday, November 22 – Establishing Social Connections: 5 Pro-tips for successful social relationships.
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.
Tuesday, November 29 – Conversation 101: How to discover what you have in common with others.
Do you find small talk challenging? Do you sometimes find it difficult to connect with people and find common things to talk about? In this session, we’ll cover the basics of conversation and offer tips and strategies to assist you in finding common ground and talking points with others.
Tuesday, December 6 – Handling Disagreements: Top tips for keeping your cool.
Do you get frustrated when someone disagrees with you? Do you find it difficult to stay calm and composed? In this session, we’ll talk about conflict and share the top tips to help you keep your cool when you’re in the middle of a disagreement and strategies to help you work through it.
If you have any questions, please contact us at info@sinneavefoundation.org.
We want you to thrive!
Throughout November, we are pleased to offer a series of “Work on Your Communication” workshops designed to assist Autistic and Neurodivergent individuals enhance their social communication skills.
Each 90-minute workshop will cover a different aspect of social communication, providing information, tips and strategies on connecting and thriving in social situations. Participants will have the opportunity to learn and practice new skills, receive feedback and mentorship in a small group setting.
All sessions are conducted in-person at The Ability Hub, located on the 3rd floor of the Child Development Centre (3820 24th Avenue NW). There is no cost to attend and we’ll even cover your parking.
Advance registration is not required and you only need to attend the sessions that interest you. All sessions begin promptly at 4:00 p.m.
We can’t wait to see you there!
The workshop topics and dates are as follows:
Tuesday, November 1 – 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.
Tuesday, November 8 – 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.
Tuesday, November 15 – 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.
Tuesday, November 22 – Establishing Social Connections: 5 Pro-tips for successful social relationships.
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.
Tuesday, November 29 – Conversation 101: How to discover what you have in common with others.
Do you find small talk challenging? Do you sometimes find it difficult to connect with people and find common things to talk about? In this session, we’ll cover the basics of conversation and offer tips and strategies to assist you in finding common ground and talking points with others.
Tuesday, December 6 – Handling Disagreements: Top tips for keeping your cool.
Do you get frustrated when someone disagrees with you? Do you find it difficult to stay calm and composed? In this session, we’ll talk about conflict and share the top tips to help you keep your cool when you’re in the middle of a disagreement and strategies to help you work through it.
If you have any questions, please contact us at info@sinneavefoundation.org.
We want you to thrive!
Throughout November, we are pleased to offer a series of “Work on Your Communication” workshops designed to assist Autistic and Neurodivergent individuals enhance their social communication skills.
Each 90-minute workshop will cover a different aspect of social communication, providing information, tips and strategies on connecting and thriving in social situations. Participants will have the opportunity to learn and practice new skills, receive feedback and mentorship in a small group setting.
All sessions are conducted in-person at The Ability Hub, located on the 3rd floor of the Child Development Centre (3820 24th Avenue NW). There is no cost to attend and we’ll even cover your parking.
Advance registration is not required and you only need to attend the sessions that interest you. All sessions begin promptly at 4:00 p.m.
We can’t wait to see you there!
The workshop topics and dates are as follows:
Tuesday, November 1 – 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.
Tuesday, November 8 – 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.
Tuesday, November 15 – 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.
Tuesday, November 22 – Establishing Social Connections: 5 Pro-tips for successful social relationships.
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.
Tuesday, November 29 – Conversation 101: How to discover what you have in common with others.
Do you find small talk challenging? Do you sometimes find it difficult to connect with people and find common things to talk about? In this session, we’ll cover the basics of conversation and offer tips and strategies to assist you in finding common ground and talking points with others.
Tuesday, December 6 – Handling Disagreements: Top tips for keeping your cool.
Do you get frustrated when someone disagrees with you? Do you find it difficult to stay calm and composed? In this session, we’ll talk about conflict and share the top tips to help you keep your cool when you’re in the middle of a disagreement and strategies to help you work through it.
If you have any questions, please contact us at info@sinneavefoundation.org.