Spirit of the Children Programs
Aboriginal Family Early Childhood Drop-in Program [Click here] Updated!
Aboriginal Families living in New Westminster, Burnaby and Tri-Cities join us for an exciting experience in our Family Drop-ins…… First Nations, Métis, and Inuit heritage all welcome! Parents, build your confidence in play with your child in this interactive, hands-on weekly group. Our staff provides fun and educational stations, including toys, art and songs that promote your child’s development while teaching you the value of play. Be more connected and involved in their exploration and learn how to transfer your new skills to home, community, anywhere! A place for parents/caregivers & their children aged 0-6 yrs old to play together in a warm cultural environment. Light snack and bus tickets provided. For further information please contact: 604-524-9113 Ext. 2234 or Email: ecdprogram@sotcs.ca ** Please see posted flyer for location and dates of our drop-in locations as well as, our ECD Calendar.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Program (FASD) [Click here]
We provide this program for Aboriginal children and families affected by FASD. For this program, we offer home support, keeping family circle on decision making, education about FASD,
Developing parents support group and assisting with advocacy and referral.
Aboriginal Infant Development Program (AIDP) [Click here]
Our AIDP offers a variety of supports for Aboriginal parents and their child who are at risk of, or who may be experiencing developmental delays. We work in partnership with community partners such as: Public Health Nurses, Doctors, Nutritionists, Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Speech and Language Specialists. Referral services are provided when needed.
Obin Ni'i ( Gitxsan for " I am pregnant") Prenatal Program
Obin Ni'i is a free 8 week prenatal program facilitated by the Aboriginal Infant Development Consultants of Spirit of the Children Society. The program will run once a week where soon to be mothers will learn about their pregnancy in a traditional way as well as a clinical way. Each week there will be topics discussed following the medicine wheel in a way that guide the mother into good health and well being for herself and growing baby. This program helps pregnant mothers find new support networks and resources during her pregnancy and beyond.
Registration is ongoing.
Please contact an AIDP Consultant by phone (604)524-9113 or by coming into the office.
Infant Massage - Pilot Program
Spirit of the Children is providing a free Infant Massage program to parents and caregivers , and their infants 0-6 months old (pre- crawlers). The program is facilitated by an Aboriginal Infant development Consultant , who is a member of the International Association of Infant Massage. The focus of this group is to strengthen the attachment between caregivers and their infants, as well as providing some health benefits such as : promoting better sleep, boosting your child's immune system, improving blood circulation, aiding in digestion and waste elimination and relieving teething pain through infant massage.
To register
Please contact an AIDP Consultant by phone (604)524-9113 or by coming into the office.
Family Strengthening Worker [Click here]
Family Strengthening Workers are committed to provide centered care that will strengthen and support the family unit. Children are entitled to be protected from abuse, neglect and threat of harm. The cultural spiritual beliefs and value systems of families must be respected and accommodated to the best of our ability. Families are empowered to take charge of their own lives.
Mentoring Program [Click here] [VOLUNTEERS NEEDED]
This program is to encourage and inspire aboriginal children and youth(10~18 years of age) to get guidance and support in their lives. We offer a one to one mentor and/or take part in group mentoring.For more information contact 604-524-9113 ext 2226
Men's Support Circle Program [Click here]
We provide a place for Aboriginal men to share and learn about men’s issues,family/relationships, and cultural
understandings in a safe, supportive environment. For more information Contact: 604-524-9113 ext 2238
Women's Support Circle Program [Click here]
The Support Circle is safe, respectful, and offers a place for women to connect in a supportive social network. Teachings are culturally respectful to the Aboriginal women who come to the circles. The topics discussed are chosen by the women. Open to all Aboriginal women who live in New Westminster, Burnaby, or Tri-Cities areas. Contact: 604-524-9113 ext 2244
Youth Groups [Calender] [News Letter] [Brochure]
A safe and supportive environment is provided for youth to socialize with peers and to learn about Aboriginal
culture and life-skills. Field Trips are scheduled on a regular basis. Please call ahead.
For more information and to register Contact: 604-524-9113 ext 2237
Traditional Kitchen for Aboriginal Families and Youth [Click here]
Create a meal together in positive environment,
share and learn recipes, learn how to shop for foods on a budget, learn about healthy eating habits, and experience traditional
Aboriginal foods: To register please Contact: 604-524-9113 ext 2240
Traditional Aboriginal Parents Program (TAPP) [Brochure] [Registration]
This is a ten-week traditional Aboriginal parenting program that is
modeled around the Medicine Wheel. The program assists individual and family development through educational
teachings, sharing personal stories, and learning of traditional Aboriginal culture. Bus
tickets, childminding, & snacks provided. Contact: 604-524-9113 ext 2236.
Men's Traditional Aboriginal Parents Program (TAPP) [Brochure]
ISKWEW Girls Strengthening Program [Click here]
The Program is for girls aged 12-18 years old. Offers Self-esteem strengthening, cultural teachings, prevention and intervention education. To register and for more information contact 604-524-9113 ext 2226
Traditional Regalia Making for Aboriginal families with Children 0-6 years old [registration form]
In this program you have an opportunity to make traditional regalia; shawl; ribbon shirt; button blanket or moccasins for yourself or your child. Must pre-register. Contact 604-524-9113 ext 2234.
Elder Support Group [Click here]
Four Aboriginal agencies are working collaboratively to support Elders being able to support families with Children In Care, families attending Family Mediation's, and Family Group Conferences. The Elders, who are here to support families for Burnaby, Tri-Cities, and New Westminster meet weekly. The Elders are receiving training and support at Metis Family Services. Their roles will expand in the future.
Protecting Our Children's Spirit [Click here] [Registration Form]
The POCS program will encourage a respectful relationship between parent/caregiver and children in the four areas of a balanced life: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. Please Contact: 604-524-9113 ext 2234
Men's Parenting Program [Click here]
Spirit of the Children Society is now hosting a weekly Drop in for Dad’s and their children where we will have sharing circles, community kitchens and other fun activities or outings.
SOTCS Referral form [Click here]
