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Our Programs

A group of kids running in the field happy.

Alternative Child and Youth Services (ACYS) offers group-based, preventative programs for children and youth across Ontario. Our programs focus on wellness, nutrition education, academic support, and youth mentorship, supporting emotional well-being, healthy habits, learning confidence, and leadership development.

 

All ACYS programs are trauma-informed, culturally responsive, age-appropriate, and community-centered, designed to strengthen both individual and family well-being.

1

Child and YOUTH WELLNESS PROGRAMS

ACYS youth wellness programs support the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of children and youth through engaging, movement-based and mindfulness-focused workshops. These programs help participants build emotional regulation skills, confidence, self-awareness, and healthy coping strategies.

 

Wellness sessions may include:

  • Movement and body-based activities (e.g. dance, stretching, active play)

  • Mindfulness and grounding exercises

  • Emotional awareness and self-expression activities

  • Group discussions that promote confidence and connection

​Programs are delivered in a supportive, non-judgmental group environment that encourages participation and personal growth.

2

NUTRITION EDUCATION PROGRAMS

ACYS nutrition education programs help children and youth understand how food fuels both the body and the mind. Through interactive and practical learning, participants build knowledge and habits that support energy, focus, and overall well-being.

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Nutrition programs focus on:

  • Basic nutrition education in youth-friendly language

  • Understanding how food supports learning and mental health

  • Developing healthy routines and informed food choices

  • Building confidence around food and self-care

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These programs are designed to be accessible, culturally responsive, and relevant to everyday life.

3

ACADEMIC SUPPORT PROGRAMS

ACYS provides group-based academic support programs that help children in grades 1-4 strengthen skills in math and language while building confidence and positive learning habits.

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Academic support programs include:

  • Homework assistance in person or online 

  • Peer-supported learning with youth mentors

  • Skill reinforcement and practice

  • Encouragement of consistency, focus, and self-belief

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Our academic programs are educational and preventative, supporting learning without pressure while reinforcing positive engagement with school.

4

Youth Mentorship &
Leadership Development

A core component of ACYS programming is our youth mentorship and youth ambassador model. Older youth serve as mentors during programs, supporting younger participants while developing leadership, responsibility, and community engagement skills.

 

Youth mentors:

  • Support younger children during workshops and academic activities

  • Model positive behavior and communication

  • Build leadership, confidence, and accountability

  • Strengthen peer connection and community responsibility

 

This structured mentorship

approach benefits both mentors and participants, creating a positive cycle of growth and leadership within youth spaces.

Our programs are designed to support youth not only in the moment, but as they grow into confident, capable, and connected individuals.

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