What are some tips or suggestions for raising a child with special needs?

Some strategies for promoting the development of your exceptional child

Do you have a child with special needs? For instance, does your child have a learning, developmental, physical, or behavioural or emotional disability?

If so, you’re faced with a tall task. Raising a special needs child can be a huge challenge. Of course, it can also be highly rewarding.

As a parent, you should aim to learn everything you can about your child and their challenges, to promote their health, development, and happiness. This means doing lots of research. You’ll need to do plenty of reading, connect with the relevant agencies and associations, talk with other parents of children with special needs, and meet with doctors and specialists.

In general, it’s important to seek guidance from those who know about and have experience working with special needs kids. Below, educational experts offer advice on how to raise a child with special needs. To learn about special education, and view a list of special needs schools, read our comprehensive guide.

Click here to view a list of special needs schools

Educational experts' answers

Jillian Roberts, professor of educational psychology at the University of Victoria and founder of Family Sparks
“A child, with or without special needs or learning disabilities, develops in a variety of ways, within many different environments. Promoting an environment that will see the child and not the disability or, not just the disability, is by far the best thing you can do for that child’s development—both mentally and emotionally.

Here are 15 strategies for promoting the development of a child with a disability:

Start by recognizing your own biases and prejudices in your heart and mind towards people who have disabilities and then learn how to create new positive ways of seeing a person and their great potential.
Look at your child holistically. Don’t just see their weaknesses or what they are incapable of doing. Find their strengths and enhance them.
Get to know your child: their personality, what they like or don’t like to do, what makes them smile and laugh or mad and sad. Know them personally.
Create a collaborative, team environment among everyone involved in your child’s life—teachers, psychologists, speech pathologists, occupational and physical therapists, parents or relatives, and your child.
Cultivate an inclusive and encouraging school, community, neighbourhood, and home.
Remove all barriers that keep your child from physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually succeeding and excelling—e.g., no elevators, no ramps, compacted classrooms, limited materials, one kind of test or exam, beliefs they have reached their potential, thoughts they can’t do something or gain anything anymore.
Learn about your child’s specific disability to better understand it, as well as the interventions that can help improve their academic skills, life skills, and behaviour.
Think: what is the best thing I can do now that will build self-efficacy and independence now and in the future?
Act: plan specific conversations, assignments, and develop curriculum that builds self-efficacy and independence.
Develop a growth mindset and encourage that from the team of professionals as well as your child.
Go out often. Go out into the public. Use public transportation and public access.
Create many opportunities for conversations and interactions to take place between your child and those who aren’t disabled and those who are.
Invite, welcome, and encourage parent, sibling, and family involvement.
Learn. Have the attitude that you can always learn from those who are disabled. If you do, they will change your life.
Be free to have fun and make messes.”

Ruth Rumack, director of Ruth Rumack’s Learning Space, a personalized educational support program, in Toronto, Ontario
“For parents, patience, mindfulness, and empathy are important attributes that are helpful in supporting children with particular challenges. In addition, encouraging strong self-esteem and resiliency go a long way to raising well-adjusted and capable children. Also, parents should not confuse a child’s avoidance or frustration with laziness or defiant behaviour. It is important to remember that children with special needs are dedicated and often work harder than their peers. Overall, parents should be attentive and listen or take note of any aspects of a child’s academic or social life that seem challenging.

Seeking outside help can establish a strong support system for children and their families. It is important to bring in the right people and professionals to best promote your child’s development. For example, developing a good relationship with classroom teachers throughout the school year can allow parents to feel more comfortable pursuing any concerns with their child right away. A useful tip is to create a file to document all interactions, interventions, reports, and details of a student’s needs and progress in order to have all the information in one place for further reference. Ultimately, a parent needs to remember that learning is a process and that any new skill will take time to develop, particularly if a child is behind their peers. It is important to empathize with the child and celebrate successes no matter how small they are and recognize that although a child may not be meeting typical milestones, given enough time and the right intervention, they will likely find success.”

Joanne Foster, educational specialist, author of Creativity and Special Needs Learners
“Each individual, including a special needs child, has areas of strength and weakness, and it’s incumbent upon the adults who live and work with children to strive toward supporting all the dimensions of their well-being. This includes their social and emotional health, cognitive growth, moral and character development, and more.

With that in mind, a person’s creativity is a vital part of what makes that person unique. Creativity helps children solve problems and overcome challenges. It fosters resolve, inquiry, new perspectives, independence, positivity, confidence, and ingenuity. Certainly parents and teachers are right to focus on academics, including remediation, accelerated learning opportunities, or other special education programming modifications or accommodations, as required. All that can and should occur—while also paying attention to children’s creative potential.

Adults have to help children make the right kinds of choices. That is, to take a chance, step outside of comfort zones, try new approaches, test limits. Kids may need extra encouragement, or assistance in the form of help, reinforcement, or guidance so as to be able to maximize their strengths, talents, interests, energy, effort, and coping mechanisms. Patience, choice, reassurance are fundamental for encouraging children’s creative expression. So is honoring the validity of children’s thoughts and feelings, without being judgmental.”

Dona Matthews, educational specialist, and co-author (with Joanne Foster) of Beyond Intelligence, Secrets for Raising Happily Productive Kids
“My best advice to parents is to love your child for the beautiful special person they are. Keep your focus on their strengths, trusting that with time and the right kinds of support, they’ll learn to manage, surmount, or cope with whatever differences they might have from others. Do your best to learn what their weaknesses/problems/disabilities might be, and to provide the right kinds of support for those, but don’t put so much time, attention, and energy into their differences from ‘normal’ that you and your child lose sight of their essential wonderfulness. And remember: special learning needs change over time. The more scientists learn about the brain and its development, the more evidence there is of neural plasticity, the capacity for change over time. What looks like a problem today might in time look like a strength.”

Una Malcolm, director of Bright Light Learners, a personalized educational support program in Toronto, Ontario
“Parents should be prepared to be dogged advocates of their child’s needs in order to ensure that his or her needs are met. Specific programs and approaches have more of a basis of empirical research support. Parents should ensure they are aware of which programs and approaches are established as successful.”

Find Private Schools:

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Learn about your U.S. college and university choices [Read more]
Focusing on more than just academics
Well-being and belonging at Trinity College School [Read more]
Focusing on affordability in private education
Trinity College School’s financial assistance program [Read more]
Where learning takes root
The progressive Kindergarten program at Hudson College [Read more]

Start here: Five steps to finding the perfect school.

List of special needs schools


Whytecliff Agile Learning Centres Langley, British Columbia — Whytecliff is a safe, empathetic & supportive place for teens with a diverse range of learning needs / personal challenges. Our positive community & high-growth environment pulls each child up to be their very best! View School Profile. Safe, empathetic, supportive community for students with a diverse range of learning needs Low student-to-educator ratio of less than 5:1 lets us really get to know you Each child gets a personalized program tailored to their unique gifts, strengths, and talents Dual-accredited as both an independent school and a Positive Youth Development program Kids love it here! On average, student attendance doubles (vs. previous learning environment) Grades: 8 to 12 (Coed) Type: Progressive Tuition: $8,900 to $19,500 Living: Day/Homestay Enrollment: 47 Avg. Class: 3 to 6 View School Profile Our Kids Review	Whytecliff Agile Learning Centres	8900	HighSchools Day Homestay Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Intellectual disability Intellectual disability Asperger's Syndrome Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Clinical anxiety Suicidal thoughts Drug and alcohol abuse Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Drug and alcohol abuse Suicidal thoughts Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety Suicidal thoughts Drug and alcohol abuse Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Autism Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Intellectual disability Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Williams syndrome
featured Applewood Academy for Progressive Learning View Profile Belleville, Ontario 1 to 12 Coed $28,944 to $83,937 We are a therapeutic boarding school for Gr. 1-12 students requiring individualized academic, clinical, and behaviour-management solutions in small class sizes and professional home stay or boarding environments Day/Boarding Progressive Learning disabilities Developmental Behavioral and Emotional	Applewood Academy for Progressive Learning	28944	Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Boarding Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Dysgraphia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Autism Autism Autism Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Intellectual disability Intellectual disability Intellectual disability Down syndrome Down syndrome Down syndrome Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Suicidal thoughts Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Suicidal thoughts Clinical Depression Suicidal thoughts Drug and alcohol abuse Drug and alcohol abuse Drug and alcohol abuse Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety Williams syndrome Williams syndrome Williams syndrome Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
featured Chisholm Academy View Profile Oakville, Ontario 7 to 12 Coed $25,875 to $26,500 At Chisholm Academy, every student has a comprehensive IEP which staff consider to be a living document that will change as the student grows and as staff begin to add and modify effective strategies. Day Traditional Learning disabilities Developmental Behavioral and Emotional	Chisholm Academy	25875	MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Asperger's Syndrome Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Clinical Depression Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Language Processing Disorder Dysgraphia Dyscalculia Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dysgraphia Dyscalculia Language Processing Disorder Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety
featured Robert Land Academy View Profile Wellandport, Ontario 5 to 12 Boys $61,200 to $65,200 Robert Land Academy, established in 1978, is a private military-inspired boarding school (Gr 5-12) helping boys to experience validation, realize their potential and gain admission to post-secondary programs. Boarding Traditional Learning disabilities Developmental Behavioral and Emotional	Robert Land Academy	61200	MiddleSchools HighSchools Boarding Boys	ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Autism Autism Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Suicidal thoughts Suicidal thoughts Drug and alcohol abuse Drug and alcohol abuse Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety
Brighton School View Profile Toronto, Ontario Lawrence/Don Mills 1 to 12 Coed $26,900 Brighton is the leading private school in Toronto for students with academic and/or social challenges. We offer curriculum-based and remedial Elementary programs; and credit, pre-credit and non-credit Secondary streams. Day Traditional Learning disabilities Developmental	Brighton School	26900	Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed	Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dysgraphia Dysgraphia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Autism Asperger's Syndrome Intellectual disability Down syndrome Autism Asperger's Syndrome Down syndrome Intellectual disability Intellectual disability Down syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Autism Williams syndrome Williams syndrome Williams syndrome
Kenneth Gordon Maplewood School View Profile North Vancouver, British Columbia K to 12 Coed $29,900 to $30,900 Kenneth Gordon Maplewood School is a centre of excellence in developmentally informed instruction that empowers children with learning disabilities in a passionate, progressive and inspiring learning environment. Day Traditional Learning disabilities Developmental Physical	Kenneth Gordon Maplewood School	29900	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Autism Asperger's Syndrome Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit ADHD (moderate to severe) Autism Asperger's Syndrome
Heritage Academy of Learning Excellence View Profile Ottawa, Ontario 1 to 12 Coed $15,400 to $18,000 Heritage Academy provides a multisensory learning environment and supports students with Dyslexia, ADD, ADHD, and Anxiety in Grades 1 -12. Day Traditional Learning disabilities Developmental Behavioral and Emotional Physical	Heritage Academy of Learning Excellence	15400	Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Autism Autism Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Multiple sclerosis Multiple sclerosis Cerebral palsy Muscular dystrophy Spina Bifida Spina Bifida Muscular dystrophy Cerebral palsy
AIM Without Limits View Profile Richmond Hill, Ontario Leslie/16th Ave K to 8 Coed $15,000 to $25,000 ABA based curriculum and individualized approach targets not only academic success but also emotional, social, vocational and life skills that are the core skills of life-long success of each student. Day Traditional Montessori Learning disabilities Developmental	AIM Without Limits	15000	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools Day Coed	Autism Autism Autism Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Dysgraphia Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Intellectual disability Intellectual disability Intellectual disability
Rundle Academy & Rundle Studio View Profile Calgary, Alberta 4 to 12 Coed $10,350 to $19,675 Our Academy (in-person) and Studio (online) personalized programs are designed for students with a diagnosed learning disability to achieve their potential through outstanding support within and outside the classroom. eSchool/Day Traditional Learning disabilities Physical	Rundle Academy & Rundle Studio	10350	MiddleSchools HighSchools eSchool Day Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dysgraphia Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dysgraphia Deafness Deafness Dyscalculia Dyscalculia
Holy Family Achievement School of Académie Ste-Cécile View Profile Windsor, Ontario Hwy 401/Cousineau Road 5 to 12 Coed $17,500 to $67,500 In a welcoming environment , HFAS assists our exceptional learners to reach their potential and to succeed. We focus on personal responsibility, initiative, independence, organization, self-regulation and time management Boarding/Day Liberal Arts	Holy Family Achievement School of Académie Ste-Cécile	17500	MiddleSchools HighSchools Boarding Day Coed
Arrowsmith School View Profile Toronto, Ontario St. Clair Ave West/Avenue Road 1 to 12 Coed $6,000 to $33,000 Founded on the science of neuroplasticity, Arrowsmith Program provides students with the skills necessary to overcome their learning disabilities and transform their academic, cognitive, emotional and social lives. eSchool/Day Traditional Learning disabilities Developmental	Arrowsmith School	6000	Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools eSchool Day Coed	Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyscalculia Language Processing Disorder Dysgraphia Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Language Processing Disorder Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Language Processing Disorder Dysgraphia Dyscalculia Asperger's Syndrome
Oak Bridge Academy View Profile Cambridge, Ontario Franklin Blvd/Myers Road K to 10 Coed $28,000 to $32,000 OAK BRIDGE ACADEMY is an alternative, not-for-profit school. Our highest priority is to provide financially accessible, highly specialized education to every child with learning exceptionalities. Day Traditional Learning disabilities Developmental Behavioral and Emotional	Oak Bridge Academy	28000	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Dysgraphia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Autism Asperger's Syndrome Down syndrome Intellectual disability Williams syndrome Autism Asperger's Syndrome Down syndrome Intellectual disability Williams syndrome Autism Asperger's Syndrome Down syndrome Intellectual disability Williams syndrome Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety
The Gow School View Profile South Wales, New York(USA) 6 to 12 Coed US $58,750 to US $80,000 The Gow School is a college-prep boarding and day school for students, grades 6-12, with dyslexia and similar language-based learning disabilities. Day/Boarding Traditional Learning disabilities	The Gow School	58750	MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Boarding Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder
AVRO Academy View Profile North York, Ontario Avenue Road/Lawrence Avenue 9 to 12 Coed $18,875 Through our dynamic individual education plans, mentorship, and therapeutic counselling we ensure all students feel comfortable, respected and cared for, so they stay actively engaged in their educational journey. Day Progressive Learning disabilities Developmental Behavioral and Emotional	AVRO Academy	18875	HighSchools Day Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Suicidal thoughts Suicidal thoughts Suicidal thoughts Drug and alcohol abuse Drug and alcohol abuse Drug and alcohol abuse Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Dysgraphia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Autism Autism Autism Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit
The Learning Common View Profile Toronto, Ontario 3 to 8 Coed $19,900 Some of the greatest inventors, authors, and entrepreneurs of our time had minds that differed from the average. Our unique methodology addresses the needs of learners with ADHD and Dyslexia. Day Progressive Learning disabilities	The Learning Common	19900	MiddleSchools Day Coed	Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) ADHD (moderate to severe) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit
Calgary Academy & Calgary Collegiate View Profile Calgary, Alberta K to 12 Coed $15,625 to $20,300 Academy is strengths-based and remediation-focused. Collegiate is for those learning at or above grade-level. Blended+ is for Grades 9-12 to learn their own way, including online, at home, and off-campus. Day Traditional Learning disabilities Behavioral and Emotional	Calgary Academy & Calgary Collegiate	15625	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Dyscalculia Dysgraphia ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Clinical anxiety Clinical Depression
Oakwood Academy View Profile Mississauga, Ontario Erin Mills Parkway/Turner Valley Road JK to 12 Coed $21,099 to $71,799 A special needs education private school in Mississauga offering programs using the Developmental, Individual Differences, Relationship-Based (DIR®) Model. Theme-based DIR® March/Summer Camps are also available. Day Progressive Learning disabilities Developmental Behavioral and Emotional Physical	Oakwood Academy	21099	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dysgraphia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Dysgraphia Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Autism Autism Autism Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Intellectual disability Intellectual disability Intellectual disability Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) Down syndrome Down syndrome Down syndrome Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Cerebral palsy Cerebral palsy Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety
Academie Providence View Profile Ottawa, Ontario Donald St/Frances St JK to 8 Coed $10,670 to $12,320 Providence Academy is the only Private French Catholic School offering a trilingual program of study in Ontario with classes from nursery to grade eight. Tuition: $8,800-10,300. Extracurricular activities: $600-$650. Day Progressive Learning disabilities Developmental	Academie Providence	10670	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools Day Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Autism Asperger's Syndrome Intellectual disability Down syndrome ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe)
Edelweiss Private Academy View Profile Ottawa, Ontario Carling Avenue/Broadview Avenue K to 8 Coed $19,950 to $25,000 Edelweiss Private Academy offers elementary education to students with ASD and other exceptionalities, maintaining small teacher to student ratios. We promote strong academic, physical and social-emotional development. Day Traditional Learning disabilities Developmental Behavioral and Emotional	Edelweiss Private Academy	19950	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools Day Day Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Autism Autism Autism Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Intellectual disability Intellectual disability Intellectual disability Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit
Magnificent Minds View Profile North York, Ontario Bathurst/Wilson JK to 8 Coed $20,000 to $26,000 Magnificent Minds Inc. caters to students whose needs are not being met in traditional school environments, pursuing personal best through a balanced approach to education. Day Traditional Learning disabilities Developmental Behavioral and Emotional Physical	Magnificent Minds	20000	Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools Day Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Autism Autism Autism Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Down syndrome Down syndrome Down syndrome Intellectual disability Intellectual disability Intellectual disability Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) Cystic Fibrosis Cystic Fibrosis Multiple physical Multiple physical Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
The Dunblaine School View Profile Toronto, Ontario Yonge St./Lawrence Ave. 1 to 8 Coed $24,600 to $25,100 The Dunblaine School empowers students with learning disabilities to reach their full potential. It offers programs for students from grade one to eight, with an average class size of 5-7 students. Day Traditional Learning disabilities Developmental	The Dunblaine School	24600	Elementary MiddleSchools Day Coed	Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Dysgraphia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Autism Autism Autism
Agora Prep Academy View Profile Aurora, Ontario Wellington/Yonge 1 to 12 Coed $18,000 to $20,000 Flexible, techy environment. Freedom of choice. ALL ABILITIES welcome and no ideals taught outside the scope of academia. We are a COMMUNITY of incredible future leaders with innate creative genius! Day Progressive Waldorf Learning disabilities Developmental Behavioral and Emotional Physical	Agora Prep Academy	18000	Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Day Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Autism Asperger's Syndrome Down syndrome Intellectual disability Williams syndrome Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Clinical Depression Clinical anxiety Multiple sclerosis Cerebral palsy Muscular dystrophy Spina Bifida Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) Blindness Deafness Cystic Fibrosis Multiple physical
The YMCA Academy View Profile Toronto, Ontario Breadalbane St/St Luke Ln 6 to 12 Coed $26,000 The YMCA Academy is an alternative school for students in grades 6 to 12 with learning disabilities and learning style differences, offering individualized Special Education support. Day Progressive Learning disabilities Developmental Behavioral and Emotional Physical	The YMCA Academy	26000	MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) Blindness Deafness Cystic Fibrosis Multiple physical Autism Asperger's Syndrome Intellectual disability Autism Asperger's Syndrome Down syndrome Intellectual disability Suicidal thoughts
Centennial Academy View Profile Montreal, Quebec Sherbrooke/Atwater 7 to 11 Coed $21,270 Centennial Academy is a bilingual high school supporting student success through an inclusive, structured environment that provides all learners with 25 academic accommodations. Day Traditional Learning disabilities Developmental Behavioral and Emotional	Centennial Academy	21270	MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Autism Asperger's Syndrome Clinical anxiety
Astolot Educational Centre View Profile Ottawa, Ontario Riverside Dr./Bank St 1 to 12 Coed $15,000 to $17,000 Astolot Educational Centre is a day school with grades 1 to 12 in Ottawa, Ontario. Classroom teacher-student ratios are 1 to 10. Students have the ability to reach their full potential with Astolot programming. Day Traditional Learning disabilities Developmental Behavioral and Emotional Physical	Astolot Educational Centre	15000	Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Day Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Clinical Depression Clinical anxiety Suicidal thoughts Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) Deafness Asperger's Syndrome Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)
Venture Academy Troubled Teens Program (ON) View Profile Barrie Area, Ontario 7 to 12 Coed $1 /program Venture Academy is a therapeutic treatment and education program for students who may be struggling with ADHD, learning challenges, underachieving, behavioural issues, and a variety of clinical diagnoses. Homestay Traditional Learning disabilities Developmental Behavioral and Emotional	Venture Academy Troubled Teens Program (ON)	1	MiddleSchools HighSchools Homestay Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Autism Asperger's Syndrome Intellectual disability Autism Asperger's Syndrome Intellectual disability Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Suicidal thoughts Suicidal thoughts Suicidal thoughts Drug and alcohol abuse Drug and alcohol abuse Drug and alcohol abuse Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety
Venture Academy Troubled Teens Program (AB) View Profile Red Deer Area, Alberta 7 to 12 Coed $1 /program Venture Academy is a therapeutic treatment and education program for students who may be struggling with mood disorders & anxiety disorders, behavioural challenges, substance misuses, ADHD, ADD and ODD Homestay Traditional Learning disabilities Developmental Behavioral and Emotional	Venture Academy Troubled Teens Program (AB)	1	MiddleSchools HighSchools Homestay Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Autism Autism Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Intellectual disability Intellectual disability Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Troubled behaviour / troubled teens Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety Clinical anxiety Suicidal thoughts Suicidal thoughts Suicidal thoughts Drug and alcohol abuse Drug and alcohol abuse Drug and alcohol abuse Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
Foothills Academy View Profile Calgary, Alberta 37 Street NW/Bowness Rd NW 3 to 12 Coed $15,900 Foothills Academy is an independent school for students with diagnosed Learning Disabilities in grades 3 - 12. Small class sizes allow the experienced staff to create a positive learning environment. Day Traditional Learning disabilities Developmental Physical	Foothills Academy	15900	MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dysgraphia Dyscalculia Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Language Processing Disorder Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) Asperger's Syndrome
TEAM School View Profile Mississauga, Ontario Hurontario/Queensway 1 to 12 Coed $21,788 to $25,440 Team School offers programs from grades 1 to 12 in Mississauga. Its average class size is 8 to 12 students. Day Traditional Learning disabilities Developmental Behavioral and Emotional Physical	TEAM School	21788	Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Dysgraphia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Autism Autism Autism Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Asperger's Syndrome Intellectual disability Intellectual disability Intellectual disability Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Clinical Depression Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)
College Bourget View Profile Rigaud, Quebec Rue Saint-Pierre/Rue Bourget PS to 12 Coed $4,700 to $35,000 Collège Bourget is a day & boarding school situated between Montreal & Ottawa. The school offers Quebec's french program from Grade 7 till Grade 11 and english program from Grade 10 till Grade 12. Day/Boarding Traditional Learning disabilities Developmental Behavioral and Emotional Physical	College Bourget	4700	Preschool Kindergarten Elementary MiddleSchools HighSchools Day Boarding Coed	ADHD (moderate to severe) Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Dyscalculia Dysgraphia Language Processing Disorder Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit Autism Asperger's Syndrome Clinical anxiety Suicidal thoughts Multiple sclerosis Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) Muscular dystrophy Cerebral palsy Spina Bifida

Series: Special Needs Schools

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What is a special needs school?

How do special needs schools support students?

What are the main pros and cons of special needs schools?

What makes for the best special needs school?

Physical disability schools

Developmental disability schools

Schools with special needs education in Ontario

Special needs schools in Toronto

Special needs schools in Ottawa

Latest Articles

Special needs schools for boys
For boys with special needs, a specialized education environment is even more beneficial. (August 19, 2019)

Special Needs Day Schools
Private special needs day schools are a tremendous chance for your child to receive an excellent education (June 11, 2019)

Maritimes special needs schools
Find special needs schools in the Maritimes provinces listed below. (June 11, 2019)

Coed Special Needs Schools
An environment most like real work or post-secondary education will help prepare them for the future. (May 15, 2019)

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