Peel District School Board’s Stay & Play Program builds inclusive spaces for neurodiverse learners

BY PAUL JUNOR

The conclusion of an innovative After School Skills Development Program (ASSDP) tailored to students from junior kindergarten to grade two with autism signals a positive step. This Stay & Play Program, which involved the Peel District School Board (PDSB) took place at We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym in Brampton. This creative and impressive partnership provided novel areas where students can: feel, belong, and connect to the community.

The basis for the program originated from feedback from families who requested more one-on-one interaction for their children. The asset-based approach focuses on emotional literacy and social communication to ensure that students are able to build bridges with each other while highlighting their authentic selves. They engage in activities that emphasize:

• Recognizing emotions
• Building relationships
• Modeling turn-taking
• Celebrating successes

“Peel District School Board’s Stay & Play program is a testament to our commitment to creating inclusive spaces where students with autism can thrive.”

Parents and caregivers were an integral part of the program as they were under the guidance of a multidisciplinary team of educators and specialists. A holistic learning environment was fostered that resulted from three areas:

• Guidance on functional communication strategies
• Emotional regulation techniques
• Sensory support tools

Some of the interactive activities that the children participated in include:

• High-movement play: Swinging, climbing, sliding, and zipping on specially designed equipment
• Imaginative play: Exploring creative scenarios with a variety of toys and props
• Art-based activities: Expressing themselves through visual arts.
• Calming sensory experiences: Utilizing tools like bubble fish tubes, sensory fidgets, and soft ceiling lights in the dedicated calming space

Rashmi Swarup, Director of Education of PDSB states, “This Stay & Play program is a great example of how we’re creating inclusive learning environments beyond the traditional classroom environments, and at the same time empowering families to build valuable community connections. We understand that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to supporting neurodiverse learners. Each student brings their own unique strengths and challenges, and it’s our responsibility to design environments and learning opportunities that honour and adapt to those needs, ensuring every student feels seen, valued and supported.”

PDSB is looking forward to Global Neurodiversity Celebration Week which will be celebrated from March 17^th -21^st. The PDSB will host a series of events and activities designed to celebrate neurodiversity, provide resources for educators and administrators, and continue building a supportive community where every student feels valued and included.

Claidine Scuccato, Superintendent, Special Education of PDSB states, “Peel District School Board’s Stay & Play program is a testament to our commitment to creating inclusive spaces where students with autism can thrive. By combining play-based learning with family engagement, we’re not only supporting students’ emotional and social development, but also empowering families to build meaningful connections within our community.”

Erica Glover, ASSDP Teacher Facilitator of PDSB states, “This Stay & Play Partnership with We Rock the Spectrum was not just about acquiring new strategies, or ideas. It provided students and families with an inclusive space to engage, connect, learn within and celebrate children being their authentic selves. Making connections and building community with our autistic students and their families is at the heart of DPDB ASSDPs.”

PDSB is looking forward to Global Neurodiversity Celebration Week which will take place from March 17th -21st.