Our Programs & Classes
Whether you’re navigating a tough season or preparing for what’s next, our programs provide the tools and community to move forward through hard days, big changes, and everything in between.
At Families Matter, we believe every family deserves support. No matter how you identify, your family structure, background, or where you are in your parenting journey, you are welcome here. If you’re unsure which programs are the best fit, reach out. We’ll help guide you to the support that feels right for your family.
Support for Moms
We understand that motherhood can be beautiful and overwhelming. Whether you’re adjusting to a new baby or just navigating family life, we connect moms with support, resources, and community.
Be sure to scroll down for your favourite classes, as spaces are limited and fill up quickly.
Personalized In-Home Support
We understand that motherhood can be beautiful and overwhelming. Whether you’re adjusting to life with a new baby or navigating family life, we connect moms with support, resources, and community.
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Perinatal Mental Health Support:
Support for moms experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety, with a focus on maternal wellbeing and building a healthy connection with baby.
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Home Visitation:
For families with children aged 0–6, offering parenting support and practical strategies tailored to your child’s development.
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Successful Young Parents:
Specialized, non-judgmental support for families where at least one parent is under 23, helping young moms build confidence and stability.
Community & Group Connections
Finding your village can make all the difference. Our group programs offer welcoming spaces to connect, share experiences, and learn alongside other moms and caregivers.
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Perinatal Mental Health Support Group:
Weekly virtual and in-person support groups with childcare available during in-person sessions.
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Family Development Centre Programs:
Welcoming spaces for families to connect, play, and learn together. Explore our Monthly Calendars for drop-in programs and classes for you and your little ones.
Peer-Led Support
Sometimes the best support comes from someone who truly understands. Our peer-led support programs connect you with people who have lived experience in parenting and mental health.
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In-Home Respite:
Up to 12 respite sessions available during your baby’s first year to give you extra support and time to recharge.
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Peer Support by Phone:
Weekly phone support from mentors with lived experience in parenting and mental health.
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Black Canadian Community Peer Support:
Weekly culturally safe phone support created for and by members of the Black community, offering understanding, connection, and encouragement.
Support for Dads
We recognize the important role fathers and male caregivers play in their children’s lives. Whether you’re seeking parenting support or connection with other dads, we offer welcoming programs designed for you.
Be sure to scroll down for your favourite classes, as spaces are limited and fill up quickly.
In-Home Support & 1:1 Coaching
Our one-on-one supports provide personalized coaching that fits your schedule and focuses on the goals that matter most to you and your family.
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Fathering for the Future Coaching:
Meet weekly with a dedicated fathering coach to build parenting skills, navigate challenges, and recognize the positive impact you have on your child’s life.
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Perinatal Mental Health for Dads:
Support for dads experiencing stress, anxiety, overwhelm, or difficulty adjusting during the postpartum period, with a focus on mental wellbeing and connection with baby.
Group Support & Community
Fatherhood is easier when you have support around you. Our group programs create opportunities to connect with other dads in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
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Papa Bears Drop-In:
Join us for Saturday morning sessions from 10am–12pm at various locations, or our Wednesday evening hangout from 5pm – 7pm in Horizon. No registration required.
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Young Parents Hangout:
A welcoming drop-in space for young families where at least one parent is under 25, focused on connection, support, and shared experiences.
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Family Development Centre Drop-In Programs:
Our centres offer classes, play sessions, and family programming throughout the month. Explore our Monthly Calendars to see what’s happening at our Horizon and Midnapore locations.
Clinical Counselling
Sometimes extra support can make a big difference. We offer mental health support tailored specifically for fathers and male caregivers.
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Clinical Counselling for Fathers:
Work with our in-house therapist to navigate stress, relationship changes, parenting challenges, and mental health concerns while building resilience for yourself and your family.
Support for Young Parents
Whether you’re looking for a mentor to visit you at home or a casual place to meet other young families, we support parents aged 23 and under as they navigate early parenthood.
Be sure to scroll down for your favourite classes, as spaces are limited and fill up quickly.
Personalized In-Home Support
Our in-home programs connect you with a dedicated worker for 1 hour a week in your home for up to 1 year, providing consistent support as you adjust to life with a young child.
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Successful Young Parents 1:1:
For families where at least one parent is 23 or younger. Offers personalized coaching, encouragement, and support to build confidence in parenting.
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Fathering for the Future 1:1:
One-on-one coaching for young dads focused on your role as a father, with practical tools to support your relationship with your child.
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Peer Respite:
Short-term support that gives you a break to rest and recharge while your child is cared for in a safe, supportive space.
Group Support & Community
Our group programs are relaxed, welcoming spaces to help you connect with others in the same stage of life.
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Successful Young Parents Hangout:
A drop-in space for families where at least one parent is 25 or under. A low-pressure environment to connect while your children play.
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Perinatal Mental Health (PMH) Support Group:
A supportive space to talk about the emotional ups and downs of early parenting with others who understand.
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Family Development Centre Drop-In Programs:
Our Horizon and Midnapore centres offer play-based learning and community activities. Check our Monthly Calendars for upcoming drop-in programs.
Opportunities for Connection & Play
These sessions provide a safe, vibrant environment where you and your child can learn, play, and grow side-by-side.
Be sure to scroll down for your favourite classes, as spaces are limited and fill up quickly.
Community Drop-Ins
Our groups are open, accessible, and designed to help families connect in supportive, engaging spaces.
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Family Development Centre Drop-In Programs:
Our Horizon and Midnapore hubs offer play sessions, classes, and community events. See our Monthly Calendars for what’s happening this month.
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Papa Bears Drop-In:
A relaxed space for dads on Saturday mornings (10am–12pm) and Wednesday evenings (5pm-7pm). No registration required—just drop in, play, and connect.
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Rainbow Families Drop-In:
A welcoming space for LGBTQ+ families held on Saturday afternoons, focused on connection and celebrating diverse families.
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Cantonese Drop-In:
A supportive space for Cantonese-speaking families, held on alternating Sundays, offering connection through language and culture.
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Successful Young Parents Hangout:
A drop-in for parents aged 25 and under to connect, share experiences, and build community in a relaxed setting.
Community drop-in programs do not require enrolment. Just drop in and join us!
Early Learning Across Cultures (ELAC)
Preparing for the transition to school is a big step. ELAC is our preschool readiness program designed to give children a head start while helping parents navigate the education system. Please note: This program requires an intake process to join.
Enroll in ELAC
Support for Expectant Parents
The journey to parenthood is full of anticipation and big questions. Whether you need education or extra support in the final months of pregnancy, we help you feel confident and prepared for your baby's arrival.
Be sure to scroll down for your favourite classes, as spaces are limited and fill up quickly.
Featured Program: Born Ready
A comprehensive childbirth education series for expectant parents and a support person. We cover labour and birth options, newborn care, and postpartum recovery.
Sessions fill quickly. If a class isn’t available, join our ongoing waitlist and we’ll notify you when the next session opens.
Group Support
Our group programs help you connect with other expectant families, typically offered in the third trimester.
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Perinatal Mental Health Support Group:
A weekly space to share experiences and prepare for the postpartum transition with others who understand.
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Successful Young Parents Hangout:
A relaxed drop-in for expectant parents aged 25 and under to connect and build community early.
Group and community classes do not require enrolment. Just drop in and join us!
In-Home Support (Third Trimester)
Available from the third trimester on a triaged basis, our in-home supports offer 1 hour of weekly support in your home to help you prepare for life with your baby.
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Perinatal Mental Health 1:1 Support:
Private support for prenatal anxiety or mood challenges, focused on your mental well-being before baby arrives.
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Home Visitation:
Practical support to prepare for baby, including parenting strategies and guidance for the early months.
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Fathering for the Future 1:1 Coaching:
Coaching for expectant dads to prepare for their role during birth and beyond.
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Successful Young Parents:
Specialized support for expectant families where at least one parent is 23 or younger.
Professional Development Support
We believe strong families are built by well-supported professionals. Whether you’re refining your facilitation style or strengthening your agency’s structure, we provide training and tools to help you lead with intention and impact.
Be sure to scroll down for your favourite classes, as spaces are limited and fill up quickly.
GroupWise© Facilitation Training
Good facilitation isn’t a formula—it’s an art. While most training focuses on what to teach, GroupWise© focuses on how adults actually learn. This immersive 7-week program (3 hours per week) helps you develop your facilitation style while building the skills to lead groups with clarity, confidence, and care.
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Takeaways:
Includes a GroupWise© manual, a certificate of completion, and access to an ongoing Community of Practice. Investment: $475 per person.
Caring Dads
This internationally recognized program helps social workers, counsellors, and justice professionals support fathers who have used abusive, controlling, or neglectful behaviours. This intensive focuses on identifying coercive control and using trauma-informed, child-centred engagement that works.
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Takeaways:
Includes a 2-day workshop and a practitioner toolkit.
Investment: $1,000 per person.
Organizational & Custom Training
We understand that every team has unique needs. If you are looking to train your entire staff at once, we offer customized group options to help build internal capacity and ensure your team is aligned.
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Bring Training to Your Team:
We can tailor our sessions to fit your organization’s specific goals, creating consistency across all your programs and service delivery. To sign up for training, please email training@familiesmatter.ca.
Caring Dads Conversations
This training goes beyond theory to help frontline staff and educators build practical skills for engaging male caregivers in child-centred parenting conversations. You’ll learn how to build connections and turn challenging moments into opportunities for meaningful change.
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Format:
24 facilitated hours (available in-person or virtually).
Investment: $800 per person.
Peer Support Model Training
Peer support programs are incredibly powerful, but they require a solid foundation to be sustainable. We provide leadership teams and frontline staff with the structure and ethical framework needed to deliver peer support that is consistent and effective.
Training Options:
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Program Leadership (2-Day):
Designed for those managing or designing programs. We cover implementation, logistics (like managing honorariums), and strategies for retaining and supporting your peer teams while maintaining the integrity of the model.
Investment: $2,500 per agency (flat rate).
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Frontline & Supervisor Training (2-Day):
For those directly delivering or overseeing the work. We focus on the foundations of peer support, including boundaries, the use of lived experience, and practical tools for daily delivery.
Investment: $500 per person.
Dads Matter
This program gives social workers and frontline staff the practical tools to build and maintain strong relationships with fathers. By using motivational interviewing and interactive strategies, you will gain the skills to stay child-centered and effective in both group settings and one-on-one sessions.
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Takeaways:
Includes a 1-day workshop and a practical toolkit.
Investment: $575 per person.
Our Classes
Parent-Child Mother Goose for Infants
July 2 - 30, 2026 (Thursdays); 9:30am - 10:30am
This program is a group experience for parents and their babies that focuses on the pleasure and development of literacy through the use of rhyme and songs. Parents gain skills and confidence which enables them to create positive family patterns during their baby’s crucial early years and give their babies healthy early experiences with language as well as support strong bonds of attachment.
Infant Massage in Cantonese
July 2 - August 6, 2026 (Thursdays); 9:30am - 11:00am
Infant Massage is a gentle, hands-on program for parents and babies aged 6 weeks to 8 months, taught by a Cantonese-speaking facilitator. You will learn safe, nurturing touch techniques to support your baby’s development, improve relaxation and sleep, and respond to distress. The class also builds confidence through guided practice in a calm, supportive, and welcoming environment.
Wiggles and Giggles for Toddlers
July 8 - 29, 2026 (Wednesdays) 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Wiggles and Giggles is a lively music and movement class for toddlers ages 18 - 36 months old and their caregivers.
Through songs, stories, dancing, and interactive games, children develop coordination, rhythm, confidence, and social skills, while parents get to actively participate, connect with their child, and learn simple strategies to support their growth.
Families will leave each week smiling, moving, and feeling more connected to each other, to other families, and to a playful, supportive community.
Wiggles and Giggles
July 8 - 29, 2026 (Wednesdays); 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Wiggles and Giggles is a lively music and movement class for children ages 3–5 and their caregivers.
Through songs, stories, dancing, and interactive games, children develop coordination, rhythm, confidence, and social skills, while parents get to actively participate, connect with their child, and learn simple strategies to support their growth.
Families will leave each week smiling, moving, and feeling more connected to each other, to other families, and to a playful, supportive community.
Baby Walk and Talk
July 9 - 30, 2026 (Thursdays); 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Looking for a breath of fresh air and a chance to connect? Join us for Baby Walk & Talk at the Fish Creek Park! This program is the perfect way to step outside, meet fellow parents, and give your baby a safe, gentle introduction to the wonders of the natural world.
Whether you prefer a carrier, stroller, or wagon, we’ll enjoy a scenic loop through the park before settling onto the grass for tummy time, a relaxed snack break, and a fun music and circle time with your little one. It’s all about building community, supporting infant development, and enjoying the great outdoors together.
Protected: ELAC Outdoor Adventures – Private
July 16 - August 20, 2026 (Thursdays); 10:00am - 11:30am
Outdoor Adventures is an active parent-child outdoor program where families build confidence, coordination, and a love for movement through nature-based play.
Together, parents and children participate in activities like obstacle courses, nature races, and balancing challenges using natural outdoor spaces. These experiences support children’s gross motor development, teamwork, problem-solving, and confidence while strengthening connection and encouraging active outdoor play.
Mindful Monkeys
August 5 - 26, 2026 (Wednesdays); 1:00pm - 2:30pm
IT’S TIME TO STRETCH AND MOVE OUR BODIES!
Mindful Monkeys is a parent-child program that combines yoga, mindfulness, and movement in a fun and welcoming environment. Families will practice simple breathing techniques, yoga-inspired poses, and mindfulness activities together.
Each session is designed to strengthen parent-child connection while supporting emotional regulation and overall well-being.
Held outdoors, the program uses nature as a calming backdrop for connection and wellness.
Parent-Child Mother Goose for Infants
August 6 - 27, 2026 (Thursdays); 2:00pm - 3:30pm
This program is a group experience for parents and their babies that focuses on the pleasure and development of literacy through the use of rhyme and songs. Parents gain skills and confidence which enables them to create positive family patterns during their baby’s crucial early years and give their babies healthy early experiences with language as well as support strong bonds of attachment.
School Ready
August 12 - 26, 2026 (Wednesdays); 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Is your child starting school this September? Join us for a fun program designed to help the whole family feel prepared for the big first day of school!
Children will work with a facilitator to practice school age skills—like opening their own snacks, zipping up jackets, and sitting for circle time—parents will meet with a facilitator to learn helpful tips for a smooth transition.
We will talk about setting up easy morning routines, how to talk to your child’s teacher, and what to do when those after-school meltdowns happen.
At the end of each session, we all come back together, and your child will get to show off their skills. It’s the perfect way to practice the school day in a relaxed, supportive environment so you can turn those "first-day jitters" into "first-day cheers!"
Caring Dads
August 30 - December 13, 2026 (Sundays); 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Caring Dads is a group for fathers who want to strengthen their parenting and make positive changes in their relationships with their children. Participants learn practical strategies to manage frustration, understand their impact, and build safer, more respectful relationships while creating healthier environments for their families.
Busy Bodies for Toddlers
September 2 - 23, 2026 (Wednesday); 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Young children are always on the move. This 1.5 hour class for toddlers, aged 2-3 years, encourages early movement through gross motor play, music, art, sensory activities, and free exploration. Parents and toddlers connect with others while supporting physical, cognitive, communication, and self-confidence development through active, hands-on experiences.
Colourful Connections
September 3 - October 1, 2026 (Thursday); 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Colourful Connections is a parent–child program designed to strengthen relationships through shared art-making and meaningful conversation.
In a welcoming and supportive space, parents and children connect, explore, and express themselves creatively together. The focus is not on artistic skill, but on the process of creating, communicating, and being present with one another.
Bouncing Babies
September 3 - September 24, 2026 (Thursdays); 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Ready to move your body, connect with other parents, and bond with your baby?
Bouncing Babies blends safe, low-impact exercise for postpartum wellness with rhythmic movement, songs, and sensory play to encourage early infant development.
Dad and the Law
September 10, 2026 (Thursday); 6:00pm - 8:00pm MST
This dads-only session offers a supportive space for fathers navigating separation or divorce to ask questions and hear directly from a lawyer. Whether starting or already in the process, dads can gain clear, practical information to better understand their options, next steps, and feel more informed and supported.
Nurturing Parenting: Managing Stress + Anger
September 15 - 29, 2026 (Tuesdays); 2:00pm - 3:00pm MST
Join us as we work through the Nurturing Parenting curriculum to better understand and manage big emotions in parents and children aged 0–5 years. Parenting can be stressful, and this program offers strategies to manage stress and anger, support healthy emotional expression, and strengthen the parent–child relationship.
Circle of Security in Midnapore
September 17 - November 5, 2026 (Thursdays); 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Circle of Security is a relationship-based parenting program that helps caregivers better understand and respond to their child’s emotional needs. Through guided reflection and discussion, parents learn to recognize their child’s cues, support their child’s sense of safety and security, and strengthen connection in everyday moments. The group also explores how our own experiences can shape our responses as parents, and offers practical ways to build confidence in supporting children’s emotions and relationships.
Mom and the Law
September 17, 2026 (Thursday); 6:00pm - 8:00pm MST
This moms-only session offers a supportive space for mothers navigating separation or divorce to ask questions and hear directly from a lawyer. Whether you are just starting or already in the process, moms can gain clear, practical information to better understand their options, next steps, and feel more informed and supported.
Baby Drop-In
Baby Drop-In is a welcoming space for parents with babies aged 0–12 months to connect, ask questions, and learn together. In guided, relaxed conversations, parents explore sleep, feeding, development, and early parenting experiences while building community, sharing support, and learning about developmental stages in a playful, supportive environment.
Cantonese Family Drop-In
This dedicated space at our Family Development Centre welcomes Cantonese families and caregivers to engage in child-led, unstructured play with their young children aged 0-6 years. It offers meaningful opportunities for social connection, community building, and shared play experiences that support early development in a supportive, culturally inclusive environment.
Connect + Play Drop-In
Join us for free play and connection in a welcoming, child-led environment for children aged 0–6. Children and caregivers explore, create, imagine, and play together while building friendships, sparking curiosity, and connecting with others in an unstructured, community-focused space.
Papa Bears Drop-In
Calling all dads and male caregivers! This drop-in group for children aged 0–5 offers a relaxed, welcoming space to connect through play, songs, and movement. Run by dads for dads, it also creates space to talk about child development, play, discipline, emotions, and self-care, while building connection and community.
Perinatal Mental Health Support Groups
These weekly group offers a safe, supportive space for moms experiencing postpartum challenges, including anxiety, depression, overwhelm, or anger related to perinatal mood disorders. Guided by a trained facilitator, participants explore coping strategies, self-care, and shared experiences while connecting with other moms in a welcoming, understanding environment. Childcare and virtual options are available.
Rainbow Families Drop-In
Rainbow Families is a welcoming, drop-in space for 2SLGBTQ+ (Two Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer) families with children 0–6years to connect, play, and build community. Children and caregivers explore, imagine, and create through unstructured, child-led play in a safe, inclusive environment. No registration needed—just come as you are and feel belonging.
ELAC Caregiver Connect
ELAC Caregiver Connect is a welcoming, bi-weekly drop-in program for parents of children ages 3–5 to connect, share, and learn together.
Through open conversations, families explore everyday parenting topics while celebrating the diverse cultures, traditions, and experiences within the ELAC community. This supportive space offers connection, shared wisdom, and helpful resources to build confidence as parents in the early years.
DBT Skills Group for Parents
Let’s look at the life you want to live. For parents, and caregivers, this program explores behaviours that may be getting in the way and the skills needed to move forward. Over 12 weeks, DBT Life Skills Groups support change in thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, with a focus on mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and emotional regulation to help navigate life’s challenges more skillfully.
Papa Bears: Primetime Drop-In
Calling all dads and male caregivers! This drop-in group for children aged 0–5 offers a relaxed, welcoming space to connect through play, songs, and movement. Run by dads for dads, it also creates space to talk about child development, play, discipline, emotions, and self-care, while building connection and community.