*The Greater Victoria School District (GVSD) provides information about community programs as a service to our families. Please note that the inclusion of any program on this website does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the GVSD.  Families are encouraged to conduct their own research and due diligence to determine the suitability and safety of any program for their children. 

*The term “parent” as used in this context is inclusive of anyone who is actively involved in raising a child, whether it be biological parents, grandparents, adoptive parents, guardians, or any other caretakers.

♥ Familysmart provides free one-on-one support for parents and caregivers. Sessions are available via video chat, phone, or email and can be scheduled as frequently as needed. The organization listens attentively to better understand what might help, offering resources and information within the community tailored to the family’s current needs. To book appointments click here or call (250) 940-6105.

Family Smart – Beyond Behaviours: When Is It More? What It Looks Like at Ages 4 to 8
Why can it feel so tricky to tell if our kids are on track, going through a phase, as opposed to struggling with something more, or beyond behaviours?In this video conversation, a parent and counsellor talk about the developmental stages of 4 to 8 year old children. Join us as we come together with other families to watch this video followed by a facilitated discussion.  Dates:  Wednesday Sept. 18th, 12:00 pm -1:30 pm and Tuesday Sept. 24th, 6:30 pm – 8:00pm
Register here or watch now here

Family Smart – Connecting With Our Kids When Anxiety Leads to Social Isolation 
Parenting when our kid’s anxiety leads to social isolation is hard for everyone. A parent and counsellor talk about what anxiety and social isolation are, what it can look like and feel like for our kids and at home, strategies families can try, and how important it is to connect with our children before doing the hard work of trying new things. Join us as we come together with other families to watch this video followed by a facilitated discussion. Dates: Thursday Sept. 19th, 6:30 pm  – 8:00 pm and Wednesday Sept. 25th, 6:30 pm  – 8:00 pm
Register here or watch now here

The YMCA-YWCA Y Mind Groups
These are a free, weekly psychoeducational support group for teens and young adults experiencing stress, worries and anxiety. Participants learn healthy coping skills through mindfulness, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and Self-Compassion to navigate their anxiety, connect with other young people and receive support. The program is designed to provide tools and support to folks who experience mild to moderate anxiety and is funded by the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions as an early intervention program. Click here for more information and upcoming sessions

Help For the Hard Times Workshop for parents and caregivers whose children have been at the ER or have had a hospital stay for mental health or  substance use issues.

 1-hour Workshops:
Session 1: How to support a safety plan at home (Part 1)
Session 2: How to support a safety plan at home (Part 2)
Session 3: How to take care of yourself and your family after a crisis
Session 4: How to find the resources you need
Click here for more information and registration