The Learning Disabilities Association of Chatham-Kent has been awarded $373,600 from the Ontario Trillium Foundation to enhance tutoring for children.
Julia Mac Kellar, the Association’s Executive Director, mentioned that this three-year grant allows them to grow their established tutoring program by adding a focus on social skills for students who could use that support.
“Children with learning disabilities require direct instruction, not only when being taught academics, but often when it comes to social skills as well. They don’t read social situations like neurotypical people do, in the same way that they don’t read words or work with numbers as easily. Because of funding from Ontario Trillium Foundation, we were able to add direct social skills instruction into our tutoring program, for those students who need it,” she explained.
Mac Kellar pointed out that the tutoring program is designed for elementary children with learning disabilities or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD); however, learners struggling without a formal diagnosis are also welcome.
MPP for Chatham-Kent-Leamington Trevor Jones stated that this funding will provide vital support for local children dealing with a learning disability, helping them develop the academic, social, and emotional skills necessary for success.
“The Learning Disabilities Association of Chatham-Kent has a strong history of helping individuals reach their full potential, and this funding will allow them to strengthen and expand their Social and Academic Tutoring program so that more local children can benefit,” said Jones. “By investing in our children and supporting them early, we are helping build a stronger, more inclusive community where every child has the opportunity to thrive.”
The Learning Disabilities Association of Chatham-Kent offers after-school and summer programs for elementary kids, including one-on-one tutoring and small group training in social skills.
They’re located at Chatham-Kent Secondary School and are celebrating their 50th anniversary this year.
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