Kitchen Connections

Kitchen Connections is a neurodiversity-affirming therapeutic group for neurodivergent teens aged 12–18 designed to support social-emotional development, executive functioning, independence, and peer connection through collaborative cooking and hands-on activities.

Using meal planning, budgeting, grocery shopping, and cooking as the framework for participation, teens will have opportunities to strengthen emotional regulation, communication, problem-solving, flexibility, teamwork, confidence, and self-advocacy skills in a supportive and engaging environment.

This group is designed to help participants:

• Strengthen executive functioning skills including planning, organization, initiation, sequencing, and problem-solving

• Build social communication, collaboration, and teamwork skills through shared group experiences

• Increase confidence and independence in daily living activities

• Develop flexibility, coping, and self-regulation skills in real-world situations

• Foster meaningful peer relationships and social connection in a neurodiversity-affirming space

• Support self-awareness, self-advocacy, and identity development

• Sessions will include collaborative meal preparation, facilitated group discussion, cooperative activities, and opportunities for reflection and social connection in a low-pressure and supportive environment.

Details

• Age Group: 12-18

• Program Duration: 10 Weeks

• Schedule: Mondays | 4:00pm - 7:30pm

• Session Dates:

  • September 21 

  • September 28 

  • October 5

  • October 12 (No session; Thanksgiving) 

  • October 19 

  • October 26 (No session; church unavailable) 

  • November 2 

  • November 9 

  • November 16

  • November 23 

  • November 30 

  • December 7 (last session - PARTY )

• Location: Beach United Church, 140 Wineva Avenue Toronto

• Fee: $2000 total (eligible for insurance coverage under occupational therapy, or psychological services. eligible for OAP funding).