Sinneave Foundation

YYC Autism Awareness & Acceptance Day
2024-04-02 11:00 - 14:00 (America/Edmonton) | Calgary Stampede Youth Campus, 1302 6 Street SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 4Z2, Canada
YYC World Autism Acceptance Day is April 2!

YYC World Autism Awareness (& Acceptance) Day (YYC WAAD) in Calgary has grown to be the largest of its kind in Canada! 2024 marks the 11th annual celebration and we are excited to celebrate, raise awareness and promote acceptance everywhere. The event is free for all ages, and you are invited!

Hosted by Autism Calgary and Autism Aspergers Friendship Society (AAFS) Calgary, this event brings together local leading autism- and disability-serving agencies and educational organizations, all onsite showcasing their programs and services.

You can expect food trucks, facing painting, an art station, and performers on the spectrum during the event. Plus…we’re planning a few new things that will appeal to young adults too–be sure to come check it out!

Wear Gold or represent your favourite local sports team!

Tuesday, April 2, 2024

11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Calgary Stampede Youth Campus (1302 6th Street SE)

This is an outdoor event (rain, snow, and shine), so feel free to bring lawn chairs if seating is a priority for you!

If you have any questions and/or are interested in a sponsorship, donations or vendor table please contact yycwaad@aafscalgary.com

Register in advance to help organizers to know how many people to plan and prepare for: https://www.generoussolutions.com/e/world-autism-awareness-day-2024-820

Board Games Night - Autism Awareness Club UCalgary
2024-03-27 17:30 - 19:00 | A Little Somethin’ Cafe at the Child Development Centre, 3820 24 Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B 2X9, Canada
If you enjoy playing board games and hanging out with a great group of people, you are invited to join the fun!

The Autism Awareness Club at University of Calgary (AACUC) is hosting its last board game evening of the semester Wednesday, March 27.

Mark your calendar and plan to attend – you don’t have to be a U of C student to participate, anyone who enjoys games is welcome.

Wednesday, March 27

5:30 – 7:00 p.m. in the café area at the Child Development Centre

3820 24th Avenue NW Calgary, AB (located at the Southeast corner of the University of Calgary campus, across from the Children’s Hospital and Ronald McDonald House)

There is no cost to attend, however attendees are asked to email autismawarenessucalgary@gmail.com to RSVP so organizers know how many people to expect and prepare for.

If you have any questions about this event, please email autismawarenessucalgary@gmail.com directly.

Keep an eye on our event calendar for a fun event to wrap up the semester in April – details coming soon!

Skills Group: Acceptance & Commitment Training (ACT)
2024-03-26 16:00 - 17:30, 2024-03-19 16:00 - 17:30 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW|Suite #300, 3820 – 24th Avenue NW|Suite #300, 3820 – 24th Avenue NW|Suite #300, 3820 – 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9|T3B-2X9|T3B-2X9|T3B-2X9, Canada
The Spring 2024 Acceptance & Commitment Training Skills Group is FULL. Please note: This is a closed group, not an open event.
Registration for the next Skills Groups will open in the summer. Stay tuned to our Event Calendar and Social Media channels for updates.

Drop-in Employment Support
2024-03-26 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-03-19 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-03-12 13:00 - 14:30 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW|Suite #300, 3820 – 24th Avenue NW|Suite #300, 3820 – 24th Avenue NW|Suite #300, 3820 – 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9|T3B-2X9|T3B-2X9|T3B-2X9, Canada
Our weekly Drop-in Employment Support Workshops continue in March! Attendees will benefit from connecting with experienced professionals who understand neurodiversity and will help identify your strengths, interests, and potential career paths. Whether you have a formal diagnosis or not, if you’re an autistic or neurodivergent individual who is interested in improving your job prospects, consider stopping by.
Tuesdays, March 5, 12, 19, & 26, 2024
1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)
There is no formal agenda. Participants are welcome to bring their curiosity and questions, resumes, and cover letters. Our employment specialists will focus on working with you as you identify priority areas for support. This could include developing essential pre-employment skills, such as:

creating an effective resume
learning and practicing interview techniques
job search strategies

Or, working on post-employment support such as:

workplace communication
asking for accommodations
and more!

Receive personalized guidance and learn more about how to successfully navigate the job search journey and the world of work.
Our goal is to create an inclusive and supportive environment where neurodivergent individuals can access resources, gain valuable insights, and enhance their employability, confidence, and career prospects.
There is no cost for these sessions and you don’t need to register in advance, just drop-in. We hope to see you there!
Due to the interactive nature of these sessions, they are currently offered in-person only. You don’t need an appointment or to register, just drop-in between 1:00 and 2:30 p.m.
About the Presenters: Meet the Sinneave Employment Team: Marcela, Sherry, and Ryan. They are a dedicated group of professionals committed to empowering neurodivergent individuals on their journeys towards meaningful employment and cneurodiversitareer success.

The Art of Parenting...with Autism
2024-03-21 10:00 - 11:00 | Zoom meeting via Sinneave Connects
Our next Art of Parenting…with Autism group meets Thursday, March 21 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. online via Sinneave Connects.
Each Art of Parenting session focuses on different aspects of parenting through the lens of being autistic and/or parenting Autistic children. Through a short presentation, discussion and activities, participants will receive encouragement, support and practical short and long term strategies for navigating parenting in the healthiest way possible, with a focus on self-care and compassion.
This particular session will offer advice and provide strategies on how to help pre-teens and teenagers through the hormonal chaos we’ve all been through at one point in our lives. The teen years can be a confusing time for kids and parents both. An autism diagnosis can sometimes add to the complexities, making managing the hormonal and emotional chaos even more challenging. We will discuss what coping, caring and compassion look like in the midst of the chaos.
These sessions intend to educate, empower and encourage parents on their journey, as well as create a safe community of ongoing support. Participants will benefit from the practical information provided each session as well as the connection of others who share similar experiences.
During this session, Sinneave staff, guest presenters, and attendees may share information about community resources. Information provided may not always be accurate, up-to-date, or reliable. Attendees are encouraged to be critical consumers of information available on the internet. Providing information about a community resource is not endorsement and Sinneave does not assume any risk for the outcome of using the information shared during this session.
This session is FREE and entirely virtual, via our Sinneave Connects online learning platform.
If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, just log in as usual. If you haven’t yet opened an account, it’s easy! Click the button below that says, “The Art of Parenting – March 21” to be directed to the portal and follow the prompts.

Pick a user name
Pick a password
Select “Register”
Choose “The Art of Parenting – March 21” and enroll.

The Art of Parenting – March 21
About the Presenter: Joannie Rosevear is a neurodivergent mother of five beautiful children. She is passionate about supporting and encouraging other families so they don’t feel alone in their journey. Her personal experience in parenting children both on and off the spectrum informs the work she does as a Program Facilitator with The Sinneave Family Foundation, knowing that, while books, resources and professionals are helpful, connecting with someone with lived experience and who “gets it” can be truly empowering.
If you have any questions about this event or if you need support navigating the Sinneave Connects learning hub, please email info@sinneavefoundation.org or call 403 210-5000. We’re here to help!
Please note: While advance registration is not necessary for most of our Learning & Connection activities (you are welcome to just drop-in), IF you do pre-register it helps us in our planning AND allows us to notify you in the event of a last-minute change or cancellation. Either way, we’d love to see you!
P.S. The quick access button to Sinneave Connects is on the upper right corner of our Homepage.

Celebrating Autism during Neurodiversity Celebration Week
2024-03-19 16:00 - 17:00 | Hybrid: The Ability Hub and Online, 300, 3820 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B 2X9, Canada
We’re kicking off Neurodiversity Celebration Week with a celebration of all things Autism and you’re invited!

When we read or search about Autism online, one thing we notice is that a lot of the information uses negative-based and disability-focused language. Words like “inflexible”, “rigid”, “lack of” and “difficulty “are commonly found alongside the definitions of Autism.

However, we know that the medical model of disability which uses those terms doesn’t tell the whole story.

At The Sinneave Family Foundation, we are focused on changing the perception and language around Autism, starting with celebrating the many positive traits and characteristics common among Autistics and empowering those individuals to embrace who they are and what they have to offer.

In this celebration, we will shift the views on Autism towards the positives, amplify the strength and vibrancy of the Autistic culture, and ways we can support Autism inclusion in the workplace and in life. The event will include a short presentation, information sharing, and discussion in a safe and welcoming small group environment.

Tuesday, March 19, 2024

4:00 – 5:00 p.m.

at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24th Avenue NW Calgary, AB) OR virtually via Sinneave Connects, our online learning platform.

If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, just log in as usual. If you haven’t yet opened an account, it’s easy! Click the button below that says, “Celebrating Autism! – Jan 4” to be directed to the portal and follow the prompts.

Pick a user name
Pick a password (Don’t forget to record it somewhere safe for next time!)
Select “Register”
Choose “Celebrating Autism! – Mar 19” and enroll.

Celebrating Autism! – Mar 19

Please note: While advance registration is not necessary for most of our Learning & Connection activities (you are welcome to just pop-in), IF you do pre-register it helps us in our planning AND allows us to notify you in the event of a last-minute change or cancellation. Either way, we’d love to see you!

About the Presenter: Sherry Taylor has over 15 years of experience in the not-for-profit industry. She currently is the Program Coordinator with the EmploymentWorks program at Sinneave. She started working with the EW Online program and made the transition to the in-person program continuously developing curriculum and content for Autistic youth, adults, and persons with disabilities, and professionals.

If you have any questions about this session, please contact us by emailing info@sinneavefoundation.org or calling 403 210-5000.

P.S. Did you know there’s a quick access button to Sinneave Connects in the upper right corner of our Homepage.

Lunch & Learn: Employment Readiness with EmploymentWorks Online
2024-03-18 12:00 - 13:00 | Online via Eventbrite
Learn more about EmploymentWorks Online – a program for individuals who enjoy the flexibility and convenience of learning at their own pace and schedule.
You’re invited to join us for a virtual Lunch & Learn hosted by Autism Society Alberta’s Family Resouce Centres.
Monday, March 18, 2024
12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
The online format and user friendly design of EW Online makes the program highly accessible by removing barriers to participation related to location, transportation, or fixed program schedules. To participate, all that is required is access to a computer or tablet, and a reliable internet connection. The program transforms the EmploymentWorks curriculum into a highly engaging learning experience, jam packed with interactive features, tools and resources, and offers a new way for autistic youth, adults and persons with disabilities to prepare for, find and keep jobs.
During the program, individuals can connect with program facilitators as needed to ask questions, discuss program content, and receive optional 1:1 job seeking support. When employment is gained during the program, on-the job supports are available to support integration into the workforce, such as equipment to perform job tasks, job coaching, and a wage subsidy that can be used by employers to help cover onboarding and training costs. Other program benefits include access to on-demand mental health resources and supports, and a unique communication tool to connect with program facilitators.
If you or someone you know is looking to develop essential pre-employment skills, attending this information session is a great way to start.
Reserve your spot today by clicking the button below.
Virtual Presentation – EmploymentWorks Online

Presenter Bio:
Ian Humphreys is a dedicated Employment Advisor at the Sinneave Famly Foundation. With the perspective of a neurodivergent self-advocate, Ian brings a unique outlook to his role. Currently overseeing EmploymentWorks program at The Ability Hub, Ian leads the delivery of in-person and online initiatives, ensuring successful participant outcomes. Ian’s expertise extends to advising the EmploymentWorks National Project, where he provides insights, innovation, and guidance to drive program success nationwide.

Neurodiversity Celebration Week
2024-03-18 08:00 - 2024-03-24 17:00 | Alberta

Creating Inclusivity for Autistic & Neurodivergent Individuals: 6 Key Principles to Inform Action
2024-03-14 12:00 - 13:00 | Online via Eventbrite
Are you or someone you know neurodivergent?
Are you interested in creating a more inclusive community for everyone?
If so, this is the presentation for you!
Join us for a virtual Lunch & Learn Thursday, March 14th from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
We will start with a brief introduction of who we are and then dive into the 6 Principles that are instrumental in creating environments where everyone can thrive.
These 6 Principles – Communication, Environment, Structure, Flexibility, Emotion and Connection – are informed by and created collaboratively with Autistics themselves. We’ll go over each one, from tackling communication breakdowns to adding structure for success. And guess what? These Principles are not just for neurodivergent folks; they are for anyone aiming to create an inclusive, welcoming space at work or in their community. Towards the end of the presentation, we will open the floor to any questions and discussions! We are all about fostering inclusivity, so let’s create spaces where everyone can shine!
There are a few tickets remaining, so don’t delay. Click the button below that says “6 Principles to Inform Action” to reserve your spot.
6 Principles to Inform Action

About The Presenter:
The Sinneave Family Foundation is an operating foundation that works with individuals, communities, and organizations across Canada to reduce barriers and enhance opportunities in education, employment, and housing for Autistic youth and adults. Our vision is that people live, learn, work and thrive in their communities and realize their desired futures. We are based out of Calgary and serve all of Alberta.
Amy Tatterton is the Director of Learning and Connection for the Sinneave Family Foundation. She provides leadership to knowledge exchange activities and community engagement initiatives that help Sinneave fulfill its mission of reducing barriers and enhancing opportunities for autistic youth and adults. Amy holds a Master of Education in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Calgary with a concentration in Educational Research and has specific interest in neurodivergence and cooccurring mental health concerns. Amy is a born and raised Calgarian with personal and professional experience in a variety of environments that support neurodiverse individuals including sport, post-secondary supports, pediatric behaviour intervention, early childhood learning management and now adulthood transition support. When she’s not working, Amy loves to spend time outside – golfing, skiing, camping and hiking!

Board Games Night - Autism Awareness Club UCalgary
2024-03-13 17:30 - 19:00 | A Little Somethin’ Cafe at the Child Development Centre, 3820 24 Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B 2X9, Canada
If you enjoy playing board games and hanging out with a great group of people, you are invited to join the fun!
The Autism Awareness Club at University of Calgary (AACUC) is hosting its next board game evening Wednesday, March 13.
Mark your calendar and plan to attend – you don’t have to be a U of C student to participate, anyone who enjoys games is welcome.

Wednesday, March 13
5:30 – 7:00 p.m. in the café area at the Child Development Centre
3820 24th Avenue NW Calgary, AB (located at the Southeast corner of the University of Calgary campus, across from the Children’s Hospital and Ronald McDonald House)

There is no cost to attend, however attendees are asked to email autismawarenessucalgary@gmail.com to RSVP so organizers know how many people to expect and prepare for.
If you have any questions about this event, please email autismawarenessucalgary@gmail.com directly.
Other dates this semester are:
Wednesday, March 27

The Joy of Cooking - Cooking Skills for Independent Living
2024-03-11 17:00 - 20:00 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW|Suite #300, 3820 – 24th Avenue NW|Suite #300, 3820 – 24th Avenue NW|Suite #300, 3820 – 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9|T3B-2X9|T3B-2X9|T3B-2X9, Canada
Is independent living one of your goals? Whether it’s a short term goal and you’re planning to move out soon, or it’s a long-term goal for some time in the future – you can begin preparing for it now–starting in the kitchen!
This hands-on session is a great way to help you increase your confidence in the kitchen.
While preparing a tasty and well-balanced dinner, participants will also learn about:

the importance of good hygiene
cleanliness in the kitchen and the importance of preventing cross-contamination
the proper use of utensils
how to properly measure and prepare food, and
working with others.

And then, you’ll get to enjoy what you’ve made for dinner!
Join us for The Joy of Cooking: Cooking Skills for Independent Living
Monday, March 11, 2024
5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)
The theme for this session is Breakfast for Dinner, featuring berry pancakes, frittatas and hash browns (Yum!)
Please note:

This activity is in-person only and limited to six participants.
There will only be light support provided by staff, so participants need to be able to follow instructions and be willing to work in a small group to prepare the meal.
All supplies will be provided.
Participants are asked to stay and help clean up after the activity concludes.
Please inform us of any allergies BEFORE the event

Registration for this session is required and takes place on Sinneave Connects, our online Learning Hub. If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, just log in as usual and enroll in the course. If this is the first time you’ve used Sinneave Connects, you will need to create a free account. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3.

Pick a user name
Pick a password (Don’t forget to record it somewhere safe for next time!)
Register!
Choose the “”Joy of Cooking” event dated March 11

Joy of Cooking – March 11
OTHER IMPORTANT INFO:
*When you log in to the event using the button below, you’ll see a tab on the side that says, “Select Session” (see the screen shot below) Click on that box.

About the presenter: Sydney Crosby is a born and raised Calgarian who has had a passion for cooking ever since she was a child making cakes out of mud or sand in the back yard. Sydney is a former Launch + Skills participant who attended SAIT and graduated in 2022 with a professional cooking diploma. When Sydney isn’t working on her business or Youtube cooking channel, she likes to relax by listening to music, reading, writing, knitting. She also leads a Spark unit for Girl Guides, which she has been a member of for the past 15 years. Being creative and cooking a variety of dishes is something she really enjoys and her two favourite dishes are keto lemon cheesecake and a family recipe called Grandma’s Cheesy Potato’s.
*Please note: Our Joy of Cooking sessions are popular and can fill up quickly. If the session is full, you can choose to put your name on a waiting list. Just click the “enroll” button as usual. If a spot becomes available you will be emailed. Sometimes cancellations happen at the last minute and you will not receive a lot of advance notice.

Autism & Women - March Women's Group
2024-03-07 16:00 - 17:00 | Hybrid: The Ability Hub and Online, 300, 3820 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B 2X9, Canada
Just in time for International Women’s Day! You’re invited to join in our March Women’s Group Thursday, March 7, 2024
In each Women’s Group, we provide timely information on topics that are important to Autistic women. These sessions are intended to provide a safe space for women to connect, ask questions, share stories, and enjoy valuable peer connection.
In this particular session, we will discuss various aspects of being autistic and what that means and looks like in day-to-day life. We will share our lived experiences and some of the coping strategies that can help in certain circumstances. These can include (but are not limited to): stimming, communication, lifestyle changes, sensory-friendly accommodations, leaning into special interests and finding neurodivergent community and support, plus many more.
During this session, Sinneave staff, guest presenters, and attendees may share information about community resources. Information provided may not always be accurate, up-to-date, or reliable. Attendees are encouraged to be critical consumers of information available on the internet. Providing information about a community resource is not endorsement and Sinneave does not assume any risk for the outcome of using the information shared during this session.
All are welcome no matter how you identify, however, please be aware that information and resources provided are based on female assigned at birth. All gender expressions are welcome.
Join us Thursday, March 7, 2024
4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24th Avenue NW Calgary, AB)
Attending in person is a great way to meet new people and practice essential social skills. However, if getting to The Ability Hub in person is a barrier for you, you can also attend online via Sinneave Connects, our online learning platform.
If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, just log in as usual. If you haven’t yet opened a FREE account, it’s easy! Click the button below to be directed to the portal.

Pick a user name
Pick a password (Don’t forget to record it somewhere safe for next time!)
Register!
Choose the “Women & Autism – March 7” event to enroll and access the virtual link.

Women & Autism – March 7
About the Presenters:
The Women’s Group is co-facilitated by two vibrant, Autistic self-advocates, who are passionate about sharing their lived experience and what it means to navigate life as neurodivergent women. Their hope is to create a safe space for autistic and neurodivergent women to learn from and help each other, make valuable peer connections, and have fun in the process.
If you have any questions about this session, or need help navigating Sinneave Connects, please contact us by emailing info@sinneavefoundation.org or calling 403 210-5000. We’re here to help!
Please note: While advance registration is not necessary for most of our Learning & Connection activities (you are welcome to just drop-in), IF you do pre-register it helps us in our planning AND allows us to notify you in the event of a last-minute change or cancellation. Either way, we’d love to see you!
P.S. The quick access button to Sinneave Connects is on the upper right corner of our Homepage.

Skills Group: Executive Functioning (EF)
2024-03-06 16:00 - 17:30 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW|Suite #300, 3820 – 24th Avenue NW|Suite #300, 3820 – 24th Avenue NW|Suite #300, 3820 – 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9|T3B-2X9|T3B-2X9|T3B-2X9, Canada
Registration for our January-February Skills Groups is now closed.
We offer Skills Groups every quarter. We open applications for each group approximately 4 weeks in advance of the start dates. When the application window opens, you can find a live link on this page as well as on our Event Calendar, which you can access by clicking HERE. When you click the live link, you will be directed to an application form to complete. Once your form is submitted, a staff member will follow up with you. If there is not a link, we are not currently accepting applications.

Skills Groups are skill development workshops that are facilitated by two Sinneave staff members (one is an autistic self-advocate). In each 90-minute workshop, participants learn a variety of strategies that are foundational to success in various aspects of daily life. They are then given opportunities to practice the strategies with the support of the facilitators and other group members.
Skills Group sessions happen once a week for six consecutive weeks. The next Executive Functioning group begins Wednesday, January 31 and runs through March 6, 2024.
Do you:

Struggle with unexpected changes?
Have trouble getting started, or maybe have trouble stopping things you like to do when it’s time to do something you don’t like to do?
Have you ever avoided an experience or a person because of your anxiety?
How about when you have a great idea, but have trouble creating and acting on a plan to get it done.

If so, learning more about Executive Functioning (EF) may be for you. Research has shown us that the skills underlying Executive Functioning can be taught, practiced and improved on. When EF Skills are working, we tend to be happier and more productive.
We are excited to invite self-advocates and individuals who identify as autistic to attend this six part workshop on Executive Functioning (EF). We will discuss and practice skills including: Cognitive Flexibility, Getting Started, Staying Present, Bringing your Anxiety along for the Ride, and Organization/Planning.
Participants will learn about the importance of EF and how to improve EF skills through specific practice within a safe and supportive environment.
Please note: Skills Groups are closed groups with a limited number of participants to allow for the greatest participation. They are filled by application only. These are not drop-in sessions.
To learn more about Skills Groups, visit our website, by clicking HERE.

Drop-in Workshop - Handling Disagreements in communication: Tips for keeping your cool
2024-03-05 16:00 - 17:30 | Hybrid: The Ability Hub and Online, 300, 3820 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B 2X9, Canada
Do you find it difficult to communicate when someone disagrees with you?
Join us Tuesday, March 5, 2024 from 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. to talk about conflict and share tips to help you keep your cool when you’re in the middle of a disagreement, as well as provide strategies to help you work through it.
This session is one of a series of six drop-in workshops designed to provide autistic and neurodivergent individuals opportunities to learn and practice essential social communication skills. Each 90-minute workshop covers a different aspect of social communication, providing information, tips and strategies to help autistic and neurodivergent individuals to connect and thrive in social situations.
All workshops are in-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW).
There is no cost to attend these sessions.
Advance registration is not required – you can attend them all (we recommend this!) or just the ones that seem interesting to you.
All sessions begin promptly at 4:00 p.m.
If attending in-person presents a barrier for you, you can also choose to attend virtually via Sinneave Connects, our online learning portal. Sinneave Connects is FREE, but you must register for an account to use it.
If you already have a Connects account, just log in as usual. If you have not registered yet, it’s easy! Click the button below that says “Sinneave Connects” to access the portal and follow these steps:

Create a user name
Create a password (don’t forget to save it someplace handy)
Select “Register”
Choose the Drop-in Workshop: Handling Disagreements course to access the virtual link.

Drop-in Workshop 6 – Handling Disagreements in communication: Tips for keeping your cool
Other Social Communication Workshop topics include:
Non-verbal Communication: Learning how to tell if others want to talk with you
Do you find it challenging to know if people are interested and willing to talk with you? In this session, we’ll talk about non-verbal communication and learn some of the visual cues and strategies you can use to find out.
Strategies for Entering Conversations: Easy ways to start or join social conversations
We know that starting a conversation or joining in a conversation that is already underway can be difficult. In this session, we’ll learn and practice a few strategies to help you enter into conversations more confidently.
Strategies for Exiting Conversations: Easy ways to end or leave a conversation
How do you end or leave a conversation when it’s time to go? In this session, we’ll talk about strategies you can learn and practice to help you leave a conversation or end a conversation in tactful ways.
Electronic Communication: Strategies for managing electronic communication and maintaining good mental health
Technology is rapidly changing and advancing. While we embrace the good things it has to offer, it has also introduced many new challenges. In this session, we’ll talk about the implications of online safety and discuss strategies for navigating electronic communication and maintaining good mental health in the process.
Establishing Social Connections: 5 Pro-tips for developing social relationships in your community
Meeting new people and making friends isn’t always easy. In this session, we’ll share 5 tips you can practice and use when it comes to making friends and maintaining social relationships.
Handling Disagreements in communication: Tips for keeping your cool
Do you find it difficult to communicate when someone disagrees with you? In this session, we’ll talk about conflict and share tips to help you keep your cool when you’re in the middle of a disagreement, as well as provide strategies to help you work through it.
If you have any questions about these workshops or if you need help navigating the Sinneave Connects online learning portal, please reach out by email at info@sinneavefoundation.org OR call us at 403 210-5000. We’re here for you!

Skills Group: Acceptance & Commitment Training (ACT)
2024-03-05 16:00 - 17:30 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW|Suite #300, 3820 – 24th Avenue NW|Suite #300, 3820 – 24th Avenue NW|Suite #300, 3820 – 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9|T3B-2X9|T3B-2X9|T3B-2X9, Canada
Registration for our January-February Skills Groups is now closed.
We offer Skills Groups every quarter. We open applications for each group approximately 4 weeks in advance of the start dates. When the application window opens, you can find a live link on this page as well as on our Event Calendar, which you can access by clicking HERE. When you click the live link, you will be directed to an application form to complete. Once your form is submitted, a staff member will follow up with you. If there is not a link, we are not currently accepting applications.

Skills Groups are skill development workshops that are facilitated by two Sinneave staff members (one is an autistic self-advocate). In each 90-minute workshop, participants learn a variety of strategies that are foundational to success in various aspects of daily life. They are then given opportunities to practice the strategies with the support of the facilitators and other group members.
The next Acceptance & Commitment Training group runs for eight consecutive weeks, beginning Tuesday, January 16 through March 5, 2024.
Do you ever act on “autopilot,” lost in your thoughts and not noticing the world around you?
Do you ever feel like your difficult thoughts and feelings (such as sadness or anxiety) are in control of you, and getting in your way?
Do you find that the things that matter to you in your life don’t get done as much as you’d like?
Do you struggle with motivation?
The skills we teach in Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT) can help.
ACT is an evidence-based approach that increases:

your capacity to be present in the moment,
your ability to accept and work with difficult thoughts and feelings, and
helps you prioritize what matters to you.

ACT teaches you how to manage unwanted experiences. When our thoughts and emotions are all over the place, ACT teaches us to anchor so that we can weather the storm. It can help you lead a richer and more fulfilling life.
ACT teaches six core skills to help you:

Contact With the Present Moment: this focuses on being present and aware of your current internal and external world; it encourages being flexible in how you pay attention
Acceptance and Willingness: this is making room for unwanted or unpleasant feelings, or thoughts without trying to change them
Unhooking (defusion): this involves stepping back from and observing your thoughts and feelings without being caught up in them; that is, noticing your thoughts and feelings and deciding if you should pay attention to them, or just let them be
The Observing Self: This involves becoming more aware of and in contact with a part of you that is always there; the observing self is an observer of thoughts, feelings, and memories
Values: knowing your values helps to clarify what matters to you, like the person you want to be and the things you want to do
Committed Action: Life is in the doing; this involves committing to yourself to ACT in the direction of your value-driven goals

ACT is an attention-training program where you will learn to strengthen your attention “muscles” and flexibly direct your attention where you want it to go.
Research has proven ACT can be effective with a diverse range of people (including autistic people, teachers, caregivers and support workers) and with a variety of conditions (including ADHD, trauma, substance abuse and psychosis).
You will have the opportunity to learn and share in a safe and supportive environment.
Please note: Skills Groups are closed groups with a limited number of participants to allow for the greatest participation. They are filled by application only. These are not drop-in sessions.
To learn more about Skills Groups, visit our website, by clicking HERE
