09/15/2026
We’re excited to introduce a brand-new program at Partners in Parenting – Friday F.U.N. with Gigi & it’s not too late to join!!! 🎉
Gigi (also known as Virginia Dubois) is a Social Service Worker that has been collaborating and working with Partners through iCAN Camp this year and, we are so excited that she will continue working with us in Friday F.U.N Program. Gigi brings knowledge, energy, fun & enrichment to her programming to help participants meet their goals and, also allows for programming to be eligible for Ontario Autism Program (OAP) or Special Services at Home (SSAH) funding to be used.
Friday F.U.N. is a fun, welcoming and supportive Friday evening program designed for youth and teens aged 5-18 with special needs. Each evening will combine social opportunities, hands-on activities, life-skill development, creativity, and—of course—a whole lot of F.U.N. (friends, unforgettable moments & new experiences)
The program is designed to give participants a consistent place to connect with peers, try new things, build confidence and independence, and develop skills in a relaxed and enjoyable environment all while giving families a meaningful evening of respite.
🌟 What is Friday F.U.N.?
Each four-hour evening will include a combination of:
* 💬 Social skills and relationship-building activities
* 🧠 Opportunities to practice independence and self-advocacy
* 🤝 Friendship-building and peer connection
* 🎨 Creative projects and hands-on activities
* 🎲 Games and group activities
* 🍳 Meal preparation, eating together and kitchen clean-up
* 🎵 Music, technology, hobbies, and interest-based activities
* 🌈 A calm and supportive environment where participants can be themselves
The program will be structured and predictable while still allowing participants to explore their own interests and have fun.
🎯 Our Goals
Friday F.U.N. is about much more than keeping busy on a Friday night. Each evening is intentionally designed to help participants:
Build Independence�Practice practical life skills such as meal preparation, clean-up, and everyday routines.
Grow Social Skills�Develop skills related to friendship, communication, greetings, conflict resolution, self-expression and navigating social situations.
Discover New Interests�Explore different hobbies, creative activities, technology, games, and community-based themes.
Build Confidence�Experience success, make choices, take on responsibilities, and develop a greater sense of independence and accomplishment.
Connect with Peers�Create meaningful friendships and a consistent community where participants can grow together.
Support Families�Provide families with dependable respite time—whether that means running errands, enjoying dinner, attending an appointment, or simply having some time to recharge.
🗓️ Fall 2026 Friday F.U.N. Schedule - All sessions run from 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM at Partners in Parenting, 25 Rosemount.
September 11 – Welcome & Getting to Know Each Other�🎲 Smart games • 🎵 Musical instrument exploration • 🌮 Taco Night
September 25 – Creativity & Expression�🎮 Osmo • ✂️ Tooth Fairy craft • 🍝 Spaghetti & garlic toast
October 9– Fine Motor & Crafting Skills�💍 Jewellery & pin making • ✨ Shrinky Dinks •🔨 Crafting • 🍗 Chicken nuggets & fries
October 23 – Relationships & Self-Expression�🎭 Mask making • 👗 Dress-up & obstacle course • 🎥 Video creation • 🧀 Grilled cheese & tomato soup
November 6 – Performance & Community Night 🎃�🎤 Talent & performance night • 🎪 Participant activity stations • 🍕
November 20 – Culture, Environment & Art�🎨 Mosaic art • 🌎 Cultural awareness •♻️ Recycling discussion • Culturally inspired dinner
December 4 – Engineering & Building�🏗️ 3D marble maze building • 🧩 Design-your-own maze • 🍗 Chicken, rice & vegetables
December 18 – Gift Giving & Family Celebration Night 🎁�Participants will explore gift-giving and social skills, prepare and serve dinner, and celebrate the season with their families. Parents will be invited to join us as special guests!
Cost
For 8-week session costs are $1480 if person can participate in 1:3 support ratio. $2800 for 1:1 support. Please note: This program is eligible for reimbursement through OAP or SSAH funding (price will be adjusted for start on Sept 25 )
💙 A Friday Night They Can Look Forward To
Our goal is for Friday F.U.N. to become more than just another program—it’s a place where participants can look forward to seeing their friends, trying something new, being successful and having fun.
We’re excited to welcome our participants toFriday F.U.N. with Gigi and create some fantastic Friday nights together!
To express your interest in signing up please fill out the following FORM to be contacted for the intake process Friday F.U.N Program with Gigi at Partners in Parenting – Fill out form
