First Diagnosis
Understand the diagnosis your child receives and arm yourself with knowledge to better prepare yourself for what lies ahead.
Transitions Timeline
Printable checklist
Use this checklist as a planning aid and confirm current details directly with the relevant provider.Ages 5–6
Early Childhood Intervention Program
Access the ministry's early childhood intervention services
Funding
Various funding sources are available to families depending on the needs and diagnosis of your child.
Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
Determine your child's eligibility for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
Registered Disability Saving Plan (RDSP)
If eligible, open a Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) for your youth.
Kindergarten
Research schools and enroll your child in kindergarten.
School Meeting
Plan a meeting with school team.
Summer Check List
In the month of August, confirm that your requests for the beginning of the school year are in place.
Individual Education Plans (IEP)
Familiarize yourself with Individual Education Plans
Getting Connected
Network with other families and build your circle of support.
Social Network
Start to work on your child's social network as soon as possible
Associations and support groups
Consider joining an association or support group.
Infant Development Program
Access the Infant Development Program.
Supported Child Development
Access the Supported Child Development.
Aboriginal Supported Child Development
Access the Aboriginal Supported Child Development if applicable.
Early Intervention Therapy Program
Access the Early Intervention Therapy Program if appliceale.
Charitable funding
Variety Club CKNW Orphan's Fund, Easter Seals
Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP)
Research the Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP). Start one if it is a good fit for your youth and family.
Reports/ Assessments
Makes copies of the most recent reports and assessments for your child's school.
WayFinder
WayFinders is a program available across British Columbia, that offers personalized conversations and resources to empower people with disabilities to find their direction towards fuller, richer lives in their community.
Family Support Institute of BC
Connect with the Family Support Institute for support, guidance, and information. This provincial not for profit organization can connect you with a volunteer Resource Parent (RP) in your community. All RPs have a family member with a disability. This network supports and connects with families by sharing experiences, expertise, and guidance.
FSI Event Calendar
FSI has regular online support groups, workshops, and information sessions with a wide variety of guest speakers for individuals and their families to explore.