The Stepping Out on Saturdays Manitoba (SOS) program is a day respite camp for children with an FASD diagnosis. It is funded by Manitoba Family Services (Healthy Child). This program is for children between ages 5 – 12 who have a diagnosis within the FASD spectrum or suspected FASD with confirmation of prenatal alcohol exposure, who are in care or involved with child welfare. The program is offered throughout Manitoba (Winnipeg, Brandon, Portage La Prairie, Thompson, and Pauingassi), and is for 24 months. In Winnipeg, a usual wait time to join the program is 6 – 12 months.
The program gives children a fun and safe way to learn and practice social skills and learn about self-regulation. An occupational therapist runs the SOS MB program. They plan the camp activities, and are available to help families outside of the program day. Trained staff and a low child to staff ratio will be key to a successful day. A plan to support each child’s unique needs will be made during the intake process.
The Winnipeg program is on Saturdays and is at SSCY Centre. The program is one day a month, from 10:00 – 3:00. You are expected to sign your child in and out of the program. Transportation to the program is not provided. Children are provided snacks during the day, but you are expected to provide your child’s lunch.
Children participate in planned and structured play, crafts, outdoor play and large motor games at camp. Each camp has an identified social skill theme for the day, such as joining in or asking a friend to play. Through the camp day self-regulation teaching occurs and children are introduced to a program called Zones of Regulation. The Zones program guides the exploration of self-regulation tools that can help a child manage emotions related to participating in groups, sensory challenges, etc.
Complete a program application in our brochure and submit it to the program office to get on the waiting list. Visit the Manitoba FASD website, or contact Gina ((204) 258-6740 or gkirchmann@rccinc.ca) or Laura ((204) 258-6741) for more information.
