Building confidence on the ice
April 16, 2020
Elaine is the mother of a young daughter with autism, Erin. She very recently joined the Canucks Autism Network (CAN) community in Fall 2018 when she registered her family as members.
“Erin is very apprehensive in new environments,” said Elaine. “In the past, she has had a difficult time adjusting to mainstream lessons.”
But with the hope that Erin would benefit from CAN’s adapted programs and experienced staff, she signed her daughter up for our six-week skate program at Port Coquitlam Rec Centre.
The difference?
“She was so confident,” Elaine recalled.
“We were thrilled with the level of kindness and compassion showed by your staff and volunteers. By the end of the program, she could skate a few feet on her own!”
At CAN, we believe every child with autism has the right to play sports. And while every CAN participant learns at their own pace, our trained staff and dedicated volunteers are prepared to give close individualized support.
We see our programs as a springboard for success in environments beyond our walls — so that kids like Erin can explore their newfound skills anywhere in their community.
“I now feel confident sending her skating with her peers at school,” said Elaine. “I know she will feel comfortable and look forward to the experience.
“Thank you for the opportunities you provide for my daughter.”
Additional Reading
Learn more about what #WeBelieve
This Autism Acceptance Month, we are focusing one something that will never change — our values.
Terri Neish: “Unconditional Inclusion”
A CAN mother of 10 years recalls her son’s first experience in our programs.
Soccer for all abilities at Cliff Avenue United FC
A professional soccer coach discovers CAN training to increase inclusion in his youth clubs.