Blog

A Space Built for Healing: The Toldo Outpatient Rehabilitation Centre

Sep 15, 2025 | Faces of HDGH, Road to Recovery – Restorative Rehabilitative Care

As we celebrate National Rehabilitation Awareness Week, we are excited to share a significant milestone for our Outpatient Rehab Department: the eventual relocation to our new home at the Toldo Outpatient Rehabilitation Centre within Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare (HDGH). I am thrilled to be a part of this project. After years of planning, preparation and working behind the scenes, we are proud to present a space not only designed with accessibility, comfort and healing in mind, but with the invaluable input of our dedicated staff.

Our goal has always been to provide compassionate, high-quality care and this new facility offers a modern and welcoming environment for us to provide services to our patients. Whether it’s Outpatient Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech-Language Pathology or our Specialized Hand and Upper Extremity Clinic, our priority is to help our patients regain independence and achieve their goals.

What makes this new space truly special is how our team contributed to the design of this space to reflect our deep commitment to person-centered care. We know the setting in which rehabilitation takes place matters– it can lift spirits, motivate progress and create a sense of hope. Every design choice, from the flow of the rooms to the views out the windows, was made with the patient experience at heart.

Our clerical staff, Ashley Pinsonneault, Raghad Susa and Kayla DiMaggio, expressed it best: “We have the privilege of being the first point of contact for our patients. We have witnessed firsthand the challenges our patients face and with the unwavering support of our team. We celebrate every step they take toward overcoming those obstacles. Now, we are proud to offer our patients a space that reflects the care and dedication that our rehabilitation team brings to every appointment. Every patient who walks through our doors will feel valued, cared for and never alone on their journey to recovery.”

This relocation marks an important step to our commitment in improving accessibility and enhancing the Outpatient Rehab experience for our patients. Our new location will offer:

• Improved accessibility from parking and public transit, making it easier for all patients to reach us, no matter their mobility needs
• Specialized rehabilitation equipment to support the diverse needs of our patients
• Spacious and more functional treatment areas, designed for comfort, efficiency and collaboration
• Abundant natural light, creating a bright, uplifting atmosphere that supports both physical and emotional well-being
• Streamlined check-in and scheduling, making every patient visit as convenient, efficient and as smooth as possible
• An overall welcoming environment where patients feel supported and inspired from the moment they arrive

 

This new space represents the result of many years of dedication, collaboration and a shared belief that our patients deserve the very best. While our location within HDGH will be changing, our goal remains the same: providing compassionate, high-quality care that helps our patients reach their rehabilitation goals. So, as we open our doors to this new space, we do so with excitement and gratitude to everyone involved with making this project possible, including our sponsors and donors and a renewed passion for the work we do every day.

We very much look forward in welcoming you into our new space!

Members of the Outpatient Rehab Team in August 2024 at the start of the construction of the Toldo Outpatient Rehabilitation Centre.

About the Author

With over 24 years of dedicated service in both acute and subacute care, Rosie Pipitone-Middleton began her career as a front-line staff member, working as a Kinesiologist across diverse hospital settings, including General Medicine, the Burn Unit, Oncology, Acute and Post- acute Orthopedics, Hydrotherapy, the Acute Injury Rehab and Evaluation Clinic and the Cardiac Wellness Program. Throughout Rosie’s career she has been a strong advocate of using movement as medicine, supporting recovery, mobility and helping our patients regain functional independence. Rosie is currently the Manager of Ambulatory Care, where she oversees a broad range of outpatient programs and services including the Specialized Neurologic and Complex Rehab Clinics, the Rehab Outreach Team and the Acquired Brain Injury Program. Throughout her career, Rosie is very proud to work alongside a dedicated team of experienced therapists and support staff who have been recognized for collaborative teamwork, innovative problem-solving and unwavering dedication to helping patients reach their fullest potential – whether in hospital, at home or within the community.

Meaningful Acts of Joy

Aug 7, 2025 | Faces of HDGH

At Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare, we care for individuals at different stages of life— from those working toward rehabilitation and managing mental health or addictions, to those in palliative care. While their journeys may differ, moments of connection, comfort and joy remain incredibly meaningful. As a person-centred, value-based specialty hospital, we are committed to caring for the whole person – physical, emotional, social and spiritual. August marks Happiness Happens Month, a perfect time to celebrate those special moments and acts of kindness that bring joy to our patients, clients, staff and volunteers. Whether it’s a friendly paw, the sound of music, or a friendly conversation, here are some of the ways we’re spreading happiness and joy.

A Visit from a Furry Friend

 

One of the most anticipated visits on our campus is from our Therapy Dog volunteers. These specially trained dogs, along with their compassionate handlers, offer comfort, reduce stress and bring out big smiles from everyone they meet. For some patients and clients these moments of connection can be a highlight of the week.

Music that Comforts

In the atrium of the Tayfour Building and the Dr. Y Emara Centre for Healthy Aging and Mobility, the soothing sound of live piano music performed by volunteers has a powerful effect. Music has long been known to reduce anxiety, elevate mood, and foster a sense of calm. Our talented pianists bring their gifts to our hospital, turning ordinary moments into uplifting ones.

Breathe, Stretch and Stroll

The Healing Garden, along with the LiUNA!625 Recreation and Wellness Centre and RBC Wellness Hub, offer patients, clients and staff a chance to connect with nature and move their bodies in a calming and accessible way. Whether it’s a quiet stroll among the flowers or a few minutes of stretching in the sun, these outdoor spaces are great for your well-being. Just a few minutes spent in fresh air can lower blood pressure and boost mood—small actions with meaningful impact.

Staying Connected from Afar

We recognize that not everyone can visit a loved one who is staying in the hospital. Whether due to distance or other limitations, being apart can be difficult. That’s why we encourage family and friends to stay connected in thoughtful ways:

• Send an e-card that we will print and deliver – a free service offered by HDGH.
• Call your loved one in their room through the switchboard at 519.257.5111
• Group Video Calling: Our patient bedside TVs aka Integrated Bedside Terminals (IBTs) are equipped with Group Video Calling so they can connect with multiple loved ones and healthcare providers in a single call – improving the patient’s hospital stay and overall care experience.

Follow Us for Graceful Moments

Every day, our staff, volunteers, patients, clients and visitors create moments that lift spirits and remind us of the good in the world. We call these Graceful Moments—feel-good stories we share on social media that aim to inspire you, move you, or just make you feel warm inside. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see how joy happens in big and small ways throughout the HDGH community.

About Peggy O’Kane

After more than 15 years at Hotel Dieu Grace Healthcare, I’ve become a familiar face in the Placements department—where students and volunteers come to find their place, and I get the joy of helping them do just that. Whether it’s a first-time volunteer or a seasoned student, I love meeting new people and being a small part of their journey.

When I’m not matchmaking people with purpose, you’ll find me in downward dog, digging in the garden, experimenting with sourdough (still chasing that perfect loaf), or sipping a strong cup of coffee.

One of my favorite quotes: “Bloom where you are planted.” It’s a gentle reminder that growth and purpose can be found wherever you are—especially when you’re surrounded by good people and good coffee.

About Jacky Naidoo

I first joined Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare in 2022 as a Communications Coordinator to cover a maternity leave. A few months after that contract finished, I returned in a full-time role as a Communications Advisor. In this role, I support internal and external communication across the organization, helping to plan, organize and develop content that helps bring company initiatives to life. Whether it's writing, project planning, or finding the best way to share a message, I am focused on keeping staff and the community informed and engaged.

Prior to joining HDGH, I lived in the Greater Toronto Area for 13 years, where I worked in the communications and marketing field with companies like The Home Depot Canada and McCain Foods.

Outside of work, I am deep in my soccer mom era, juggling games, practices, and everything in between with my two active boys – three if you count my husband!

Injury Prevention Specialists and Ergonomists in Healthcare

Jul 7, 2025 | Faces of HDGH

When we think of hospitals, our minds usually go straight to doctors, nurses, and maybe even the folks at the front desk who help us check in. But behind the scenes, there’s a group of professionals making an impact on patient care and staff well-being: injury prevention specialists and ergonomists.

These roles might not be as visible as those in the frontline, but their work is also essential to keeping hospitals running smoothly and safely. With July 7, 2025 being National Injury Prevention Day, let’s take a closer look at how Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare (HDGH) works hard to keep everyone safe.

So, who are these people?

Injury prevention specialists and ergonomists are experts in identifying risks and designing solutions to prevent injuries before they happen. At HDGH, that means we assess how people move, lift, sit, stand, and interact with their environment. Their goal? To reduce strain, prevent accidents, and create a safer space for both patients and staff.

Think of them as the safety engineers of the healthcare world.

Why we do we need them?

All of the physical activity that happens in our hospital – lifting patients, moving equipment, standing and walking, can lead to injuries without proper ergonomics and injury prevention strategies.

That’s where injury prevention specialists come in. They analyze tasks, recommend better tools or techniques, and support leadership with training staff on how to move safely. Ergonomists can support with the aforementioned role, and take it a step further by redesigning workspaces and workflows to fit the individuals using them.

What do they actually do?

A day in the life of an injury prevention specialist or ergonomist at HDGH can vary, but here are some of the things we might tackle

• Conducting ergonomic assessments: Watching how nurses lift patients to identify risky movements or poor posture.
• Recommending equipment: Suggesting lift-assist devices, adjustable chairs, or anti-fatigue mats to reduce strain.
• Training staff: Teaching proper body mechanics, safe lifting techniques, and how to use ergonomic tools effectively.
• Investigating incidents: If someone gets hurt, our Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) team digs into the mechanisms of injury, and find methods on how to prevent it from happening again.
• Designing safer spaces: Working with architects and facility managers to ensure new or renovated areas are built with ergonomics in mind.

A commitment to safety

Injury prevention specialists and ergonomists work to help reduce injuries, lower costs, and improve the overall experience for both staff and patients. In a world where healthcare workers have many roles and responsibilities, having someone focused on keeping them safe and supported is crucial.

So next time you walk through a hospital and see a healthcare worker using a lift device or a workstation that looks surprisingly comfortable, there’s a good chance an ergonomist or injury prevention specialist had something to do with it.

About the Author

Aakash Patel has been with Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare since October 2024, working as the Injury Prevention Coordinator. Aakash takes the lead on duties such as Ergonomic Assessments, Mask Fit Tests, and Physical Demands Analyses, amongst other duties within the Occupational Health and Safety department (OHS).

Aakash holds an Honours Bachelor of Human Kinetics (Movement Science) from the University of Windsor and a Graduate Certificate in Advanced Ergonomic Studies from Fanshawe College. Throughout his career Aakash has worked as an Ergonomics Specialist, looking to improve workplace processes, and make duties safer, to lower the risk of musculoskeletal disorders for his fellow employees. Aakash also holds an Associate Ergonomist (AE) designation with the Canadian College for the Certification of Professional Ergonomists (CCCPE).

In his spare time, Aakash enjoys reading, watching sports, staying active, and spending time with family and friends.

Personal Support Workers Make a World of Difference

May 19, 2025 | Faces of HDGH

Personal Support Workers (PSWs) provide hands-on care, emotional support, and a steady presence for patients throughout their healthcare journey. At Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare, PSWs are a vital part of our care teams—offering comfort, dignity, and encouragement to those who need it most.

In honour of Personal Support Worker Day on May 19, this month’s Maison Dieu Health Blog features a special Q&A with three of our own. Join us as we delve into the lives of these remarkable individuals, Lee, Horiya and Laura, exploring their journeys, insights, and the deep sense of purpose that drives their work.

Can you share a bit about your background and what inspired you to become a PSW?

Lee: I migrated from Trinidad and Tobago in 2016 with my husband and eldest son. We decided it would be best for me to stay at home with the kids initially, especially with no extended family around. When my youngest son started school in 2020—right in the midst of COVID—I enrolled in the government’s six-month PSW program. I’m a social person and love interacting with others, so it was the perfect opportunity to give back and support people when they needed it most.

 

Horiya: I was a nurse in my home country, but when I moved to Canada, I focused on supporting my husband’s goals and raising our six kids. Healthcare has always been my passion, and becoming a PSW was a great way to reconnect with it while still having time for my family.

Laura: My name is Laura Miller. I’m the daughter of a former HDGH RPN, and I grew up surrounded by nurses and healthcare aides—many of my aunts and cousins work in the field. At 15, I became one of my grandparents’ primary caregivers before their move to a nursing home. That experience showed me how meaningful it is to connect with and support others in maintaining their independence.

How long have you been working as a PSW, and what has your journey been like?

Lee: I started working as a PSW in 2021. It’s been an incredible journey filled with growth and learning. I began in long-term care at Schlegel Village at St. Clair and eventually moved to HDGH.

 

Horiya: I’ve been a PSW for almost a year now. I started with a student placement on 2 South and was later hired as a temporary part-time staff member. I’ve worked in multiple units and have gained valuable experience across the hospital. It’s been a rewarding and educational journey.

Laura: I graduated from St. Clair College and this year marks 22 years as a PSW. The journey hasn’t always been easy, but it’s definitely been rewarding. It’s a career filled with purpose.

 
What does a typical day look like for you as a PSW?

Lee: My day starts with helping patients with their Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), which can include showers and providing support with meals or mobility. I also assist nurses whenever needed.

Horiya: I help patients with tasks they can't do themselves, like bed baths, showers, feeding, toileting, transferring, and monitoring vitals. But we also provide emotional support. While we help, we talk and listen to them. Sometimes we become like friends - someone they can talk to and trust.

Laura: On 2 South, no two days are the same. I assist with ADLs, porter patients to X-rays, and sometimes accompany them off campus for appointments. It’s fast-paced and fulfilling.

Can you share a memorable experience or moment that made you feel proud of your work?

Lee: One of my proudest moments was receiving an envelope from my manager with a nomination from my co-workers for Rookie of the Year. I didn’t win, but the fact they thought of me meant everything. It told me I was working efficiently and making a difference.

 

Horiya: When patients pray for me after I care for them—that’s the most memorable and fulfilling part of my job. Whether it’s a shower, bed bath, or anything they need, they truly appreciate it, and I can feel their gratitude. It means so much to me because I give my care from the heart. When they’re happy, it makes me even happier.

Laura: I’ve formed strong connections with many long-term patients. They become like close friends—we share stories and laughter like old pals. That connection is incredibly rewarding.

What do you find most rewarding about being a PSW?

Lee: Helping people—whether they’re my patients or co-workers—is what is most rewarding. Helping someone get through their day easily, makes a great shift for me.

 

Horiya: The most rewarding part of being a PSW is seeing my patients happy and knowing I made a difference in their day. When they feel comfortable,clean and cared for—and even pray for me—it makes me feel proud and appreciated.

Laura: What I love best about my role as a PSW is that I get to make connections with our patients and assist them on their journey back home. Our long-term patients have a special place in my heart and I view them as a close friend. We often joke and share stories with each other like old friends and to me that is the most rewarding part of my day.

Caring with Purpose, Every Day

Lee, Horiya and Laura, remind us that PSWs are not only caregivers, but also listeners, motivators, and trusted partners in a patient’s journey. Their dedication, empathy, and quiet strength make a meaningful difference every single day.

On this PSW Day, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all Personal Support Workers at Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare. Your compassion and commitment continue to shape the lives of those we serve—and we are grateful for all that you do.

Transforming Mental Health Care for Children

Apr 16, 2025 | Mental Health, Faces of HDGH

Working in children’s mental health, I’ve seen firsthand how urgently families need care that’s responsive, accessible, and compassionate. That’s why I’m incredibly proud to share what our team at Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare’s Regional Children’s Centre (RCC) has been building. It’s called the Assertive Community Treatment Team for Children (ACT-C) — the first program of its kind in Canada — and it’s transforming how we deliver mental health care to children as young as six by meeting them where they are: in their homes and communities. This bold new approach is already making a meaningful difference, right here in Windsor-Essex.

A First in Canada: Community-Based, Child-Focused Mental Health Care

Modeled after the Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) Teams used to support adults, ACT-C is specifically tailored to the needs of children, along with their families to meet the complex needs of young people struggling with severe mental health challenges — right where they live.

The team collaborates with community partners like the Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society (WECAS) to provide families with a well-rounded network of support. Designed for flexibility, the ACT-C approach meets families where they are—at home and in the community—while reducing the need for emergency services such as hospitals, police, or crisis units. Despite being community-based, the program offers similar level of intensive care as live-in or Day treatment settings, including individual and family counselling, in-home behaviour management coaching, recreational programming, and skill-building activities.

What Makes ACT-C Different?

Here are just a few of the ways ACT-C is making a positive impact:

 

• Enhanced Support: Serving children and families in Windsor-Essex, particularly, the most complex clients who are in most need of intensive mental health treatment.
• Family-Centered Care: Involving parents and guardians as essential partners in the treatment process, with the team meeting with families multiple times per week based on their needs.
• Effective Transition: Helping families move to less intensive or intrusive services as treatment goals are met.
• Crisis Prevention: Reducing repeat use of crisis or emergency services and minimizing wait times for existing intensive treatment options in Windsor-Essex County.

 

Real Results, Real Impact

Since launching, ACT-C has supported 62 families. Early results show improved outcomes for children and families participating in the program, as well as agency-wide benefits, including shorter waitlists for other intensive services like day treatment and better access to counseling and therapy.

Voices from the Community

The most powerful evidence? The families we serve. Krystle and Adam, parents of two children in the program, shared their experience:

“The Assertive Community Treatment Team for Children has impacted our family in a wonderfully, positive way. Jen has been very thorough with the education she has given to us, and has given us a great follow through plan. It has been very helpful to our family that Jen has come into our home to be hands on teaching us and the children to build a morning routine through modeling and visual charts. She has also given us resources to the community partners so Adam and I can continue positively in our journey. The collaboration between the team and our family has been great and very professional. Since participating in the program, the boys have been better behaved, not as destructive. They are willing to participate in things we are asking them, they have a sense of purpose again.”

Looking Ahead

ACT-C is paving the way for improving how we support children’s mental health care that could inspire systems across the country — and beyond. I’m honoured to have been invited to speak about our work at an upcoming European conference in Denmark, where we’ll showcase ACT-C and the work our team and community partners are doing to transform children’s mental health.

Together, we’re not just treating mental illness — we’re transforming how and where we deliver care for children and families. And this is only the beginning.

About the Author

DJ MacNeil, director, Regional Children’s Centre, has a wealth of experience from his extensive career in mental health services. With a background that spans outpatient, inpatient, community, correctional and emergency department settings, DJ has dedicated his professional life to improving mental health care for children and families. 

DJ holds a master's degree in Quality Improvement and Patient Safety, reflecting his deep interest in these areas. He enjoys learning and working on initiatives related to quality and health system improvement. DJ also volunteers on the Quality, Utilization & Risk board for the WECHC.

Outside of his professional life, DJ spends a lot of time with his wife and three kids. He is a true philomath and voracious reader, always eager to expand his knowledge and understanding.

Celebrating Psychology Month

Feb 20, 2025 | Mental Health, Faces of HDGH

February is Psychology Month in Canada and Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare (HDGH) wants to showcase the psychologists that work here and the role that they play in a patient’s healthcare journey. Clinical psychologists are mental health clinicians with doctoral degrees who are registered with the College of Psychologists and Behavioural Analysts of Ontario. At HDGH, psychology plays a part in a number of the adult services, as well as in the children's services at the Regional Children’s Centre.

 

In the Toldo Neurobehavioural Institute, which is our inpatient specialized mental healthcare facility, the clinical psychologist, currently Dr. Bethany King, provides therapy and assessment services and has the support of a part time psychometrist. The psychologist is a key member of the multi-disciplinary team, which is made up of psychiatry, nursing, social work, occupational therapy, certified rehab assistants, recreational therapy and consults on developing treatment plans for the 49 patients in this program.

 

HDGH also has a neuropsychologist providing services in the inpatient rehabilitation and outpatient Acquired Brain Injury programs. The neuropsychologist provides assessments (also supported by a part time psychometrist) to evaluate cognitive functioning and therapy services, as well as consults with the multi-disciplinary team. Dr. Anne McLachlan recently retired from this position after 30 years.

 

At the Regional Children’s Centre (RCC), three psychologists offer psychological assessment and consultation services to a variety of programs. Current RCC psychologists include Dr. Amanda Darroch, Dr. Jenna Jones, and Dr. Lauren Wysman. RCC psychologists offer psychological assessments to clients aged 6 to 12 years receiving outpatient mental health counselling and/or those enrolled in the Intensive Treatment Services (ITS) Day Treatment program to determine their cognitive, academic, behavioural, and socio-emotional functioning. They also run an Autism screening clinic and subsequent Autism diagnostic assessments for children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years in the community; this is the only publicly-funded autism assessment program in Windsor-Essex for this age group. To complete this work, psychologists are supported by one full-time and one part-time psychometrist, who assist with Autism screenings and diagnostic assessments. In addition, RCC psychologists offer consultation services to social workers regarding treatment of complex cases and report reviews for those clients who have an existing assessment.

HDGH psychologists also offer supervision to doctoral students, primarily from the University of Windsor's clinical psychology graduate program, through practicum placements and are very proud to support the training of future clinical psychologists

End-of-Year Reflection: Celebrating Our Achievements and Looking Ahead

Dec 20, 2024 | Leadership, Faces of HDGH

As the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on all the incredible moments we’ve shared at Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare this past year. We have experienced a journey of growth, resilience, and community spirit. I want to take a moment to celebrate our achievements together and extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you—our dedicated staff and physicians, compassionate volunteers, community partners, and the Windsor-Essex community for their support.

Bill Marra is the President and CEO at HDGH and brings his 35 years of honourable leadership experience in health, public affairs, and community service to the HDGH executive team. Since joining HDGH in 2011, Bill has been steadfast in his goal to make HDGH the safest hospital in Ontario. He created an in-house security team to ensure the safety of patients and healthcare workers. Bill took on the role of President and CEO in January 2022 and in just one year, he led a person-centered model of care change in the Complex Medical Care and Palliative Units, introduced Personal Support Workers to the healthcare unit, established a HDGH Wellness Committee, and formed an EDII Alliance.

Truth and Reconciliation

Sep 30, 2024 | Faces of HDGH

I was asked to write a blog about Truth and Reconciliation and I must admit it’s probably the hardest thing I’ve had to do. How do I explain to people the devastation that Canada, the country that most people moved to be a part of has put upon their first people? This was not something from 1492, although that’s roughly when things started according to history, but something that has continued throughout the decades and centuries since.

The recognition that finally came about when so many unmarked graves were found was the catalyst for what we now know as Truth and Reconciliation Day. But beyond the title of Truth and Reconciliation and beyond the 94 recommendations made by the government to make an attempt to improve the future of our First Nations people, there are countless people who have memories of those days and the children and the grand children of those people who turned to substances to hide the pain, shame and horror that was their lives. Many of these individuals never knew how to be part of a family, never learned how to parent, and in turn passed those traumas on to the next generation. There are still many communities without clean water to drink or contaminated air and land that they cannot use to grow food.

This day is not a holiday, it is not a chance to simply have a day off…No, this is a day to mourn and to hold our loved ones close and pray this never happens to them. The fear of this is still present in many people you speak to who have experienced the residential school system, as well as the “60’s scoop”. The system that once again proved only to remove children from loving families guilty only of having a different way of life from those who wanted to assimilate them into a world that was never kind to them.

I ask that if you want to understand to please read up on this history. Talk to some of the people who’ve lived it and then pass that information on to your children so they know and they make sure this history is one that is not repeated. Make sure your children’s school is teaching your children the real truth about Canadian history. Read the recommendations set out and see where you can (if you can) change things in your lives to ensure that you are not adding to this history and continuing it any further.

September 30 is recognized as Orange Shirt Day, inspired by the story of Phyllis Webstad, a residential survivor who at 6 years old was taken from her home and brought to a residential school where she had her new orange shirt immediately taken from her by school staff. Please remember why you wear this shirt when you wear it and keep that in your heart every day, all year. Don’t just “wear” a shirt…understand it!!!!

Fun Summer Activities for Kids: Nurturing Creativity, Learning, Exercise, and Social Skills:

Aug 12, 2024 | Mental Health, Faces of HDGH

Summer is a time of fun and freedom for children, but it also poses a challenge for parents who are looking to keep their kids entertained in meaningful ways. It’s important for children to have the freedom to choose how they spend some of their time through the summer months. It is equally important to include structured activities to ensure children are engaging in various enriching and interactive activities. Working in children’s mental health, I have collaborated with many parents to develop ways to engage children in activities that foster creativity, learning, physical activity and social skills. Here are some of those tips!

Embrace Creativity with the Arts

Encouraging children to express themselves creatively can work to boost their mental health, confidence, and feelings of empowerment. This can include crafts, and also dance, drama, and music! Setting up an art station at home with various supplies can provide endless opportunities for creative expression. Consider these ideas:

• Nature Collages: Collect items form the outdoors like leaves, flowers and twigs, and let your child create beautiful collages. This activity will spark creativity, and also gets them outdoors and connect them with the beauty of nature.
• Rock Painting: Find smooth rocks and let your children paint them! Not only is this fun for kids, but also provides parents an opportunity to praise children’s efforts and put their work on display in the garden.
• Handmade Greeting Cards: Encourage your children to create greeting cards for friends and family members. This can be a fun and creative way for your children to express their emotions, express gratitude, and even foster empathy.
• Dance Parties: Some of my best childhood memories stem from dancing outside with my parents and sisters. Put on your kids’ favourite artists, get vulnerable, and show off your moves all around the house or backyard!

 

Foster Learning with Educational Activities

While it is important that your child have a break from education, keeping their minds active with educational activities can be fun and exciting! Any time your child is trying something new, mastering a new skill, reading, writing, or being exposed to something for the first time, they are learning! Here’s a few ideas:

• Science Experiments: Simple experiments like creating a baking soda and vinegar volcano, or creating a rainbow! There are many science experiments online for you and your child to research and choose from.
• Read with Your Child: Find age appropriate books and read to your child, or if your child is able, have them read to you! This can be a great way to help your child practice their literacy skills, and is also a great quality time activity for parents and their children.
• Nature Journaling: Give your child a journal and encourage them to draw and write about the plants, insects, and animals they observe.
• Cooking and Baking: Get your children into the kitchen and have them help create something tasty. Cooking and baking teach math, science, and following directions, while providing a sense of accomplishment and a (hopefully) delicious result!

 

Keep your Child Moving

Physical activity is essential for children’s mental and physical health. Anytime your child is outdoors, they will expend more energy than when inside. Get your kids outside and get them moving! Here are some fun ways to keep your kids active:

• Day Trips: Visit any park, greenspace or trail for a day of bike riding, hiking, or just running around!
• Outdoor Games: Classic games like tag, hide-and-seek, corn hole, or capture the flag are a great way to get active, and also teach children about healthy competition.
• Water Play: Summers in Southwestern Ontario can be hot! Cool down and get active by setting up a sprinkler or kiddie pool in the back yard. Visiting a splash pad is another great way for your kids to meet other children, while cooling off and keeping active.
• Obstacle Courses and Scavenger Hunts: Enhance your child’s problem-solving and observation skills by setting up either an obstacle course or scavenger hunt using household items.

 

Stay Connected through Group Activities

Social interactions are crucial for developing important life skills like cooperation, communication, social skills, and empathy. Here are a few ideas:

• Play Dates: Maintain your child’s friendships from school through the summer by arranging plenty of play dates. Not only will this strengthen your child’s friendships, but it can also reduce anxiety come September when it is time to return to school.
• Volunteer Work: Participating in community service activities, such as park clean ups or helping at a food bank can be a great way to connect with your children while instilling a sense of social responsibility and empathy in your children.
• Attend Local Festivals: Windsor-Essex hosts many festivals through the summer months which can provide a day of fun and connection to community for you and your family to enjoy! While some cost money, many are free to attend and participate in!
• Family Picnic: The idea of eating lunch or dinner on a blanket at the park or beach can be very new and exciting for children. Including them in the picnic preparations will further excite them. You can couple a family picnic with any number of games and activities to create a fun day out for children.

 

As a parent, you play a vital role in ensuring your child’s summer is both fun and enriching. By incorporating activities that promote creativity, learning, exercise, and connection, you can help your child enjoy a healthy and balanced summer. Any time you get your child outdoors, moving their bodies, trying or learning something new, or spending time with others, you are promoting their healthy development and their mental health. Get creative, have fun, stay safe, and enjoy a great summer!