Social Skills & Life Skills Programs for Children, Teens & Youth

HolistiCare offers structured social skills and life skills programs for autistic children, teens, and youth in Ottawa and Kanata. Our evidence-informed programs help individuals build meaningful connections, develop independence, and thrive in everyday social situations

BCBA Supervised

OAP Approved Provider

Ottawa & Toronto

Evidence-Based

What Are Social Skills & Life Skills Programs?

Social skills programs help individuals learn how to interact with others — making friends, reading social cues, starting and maintaining conversations, and navigating group situations. Life skills programs focus on the practical abilities needed for daily independence self-care, routines, problem-solving, and community participation.

Together, these programs build confidence, connection, and independence for individuals at every stage of development.

Who We Serve

  • Children learning foundational social skills
  • Teens navigating friendships, school, and community
  • Youth developing independence and daily living skills
  • Individuals with autism, ADHD, or other neurodiverse profiles
  • Families supporting a child’s social and life skill development

What We Work On

Social Communication

Starting and maintaining conversations, understanding social cues, and building meaningful peer relationships.

Friendship & Peer Interaction

Developing skills to make friends, join group activities, and navigate social situations with confidence.

Emotional Regulation

Recognizing and managing emotions in social settings including frustration, anxiety, and excitement.

Problem Solving

Building flexible thinking and conflict resolution skills for everyday social challenges.

Daily Living Skills

Self-care routines, personal hygiene, meal preparation, household tasks, and community navigation.

Community Participation

Building skills for safe and confident participation in community settings  public transit, shopping, recreation, and more.

Program Formats

Group Sessions

small, structured groups with peers at similar developmental levels

Individual Sessions

one-on-one coaching tailored to specific goals

In-Person

Ottawa and Kanata locations

Virtual Sessions

available across Ontario

OAP Funding Information

Social skills programs may be eligible for OAP Core Clinical Services funding. As an approved OAP provider, HolistiCare can help guide you through available funding options. Contact us to learn what may apply to your child’s individual plan.

Why Choose HolistiCare?

Small group ratios for meaningful participation

OAP Approved Provider

Individual and group options

Experienced, supportive facilitators

Center, Home & School Based

Evidence-informed curriculum

Help Your Child Build Confidence & Connection

Our social skills and life skills programs give children and youth the tools they need to thrive — in friendships, at school, and in everyday life. Join our waitlist today.