Almas K.
BA
Early RISErs Lead Instructor
Learn More Brain Buddies
This dynamic, neuroaffirming social communication group, developed and led by a Speech-Language Pathologist, supports learners in exploring how their brains work and connecting with others through play, group activities, and friendship.
Who
This group is for children in grades 1–3 who are discovering how their brains work and how social communication supports them in playing with others and making friends.
Where
Brain Buddies meet at our East Vancouver Centre.
When
Brain Buddies meet Wednesdays from 3:00 – 4:00pm. See below for further dates and details.
Why Brain Buddies?
Many neurodivergent children spend a lot of energy at school and in extracurricular activities trying to behave like their neurotypical peers. They don’t always have opportunities to be part of social groups where it feels safe to be themselves. This neuroaffirming group encourages social, emotional, and personal growth by supporting authentic communication and connection. In this group, differences are respected, and students have fun interacting with peers and making friends.
Brain Buddies uses a simple and empowering metaphor to explain and affirm how brains work in a child-friendly way. Through supported play and group activities, students explore how the brain is like a series of highways and construction zones, opening up space for self-awareness, self-acceptance, empathy, and conversations about individual strengths and differences in life and learning.
Program Details
In Brain Buddies, your child participates in enjoyable social activities and structured programming to help them gain experience in the following:
- Initiating and sustaining play with peers
- Resolving peer conflicts and repairing relationships
- Initiating and sustaining friendships
- Interpreting communication and body language
- Self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-advocacy
- Perspective-taking and empathy
Experienced staff guide youth in small groups of no more than 10 students as they develop their understanding and experience.
Neuroaffirming Approach
A neuroaffirming approach shapes this group. We acknowledge, support, accept, discuss, and celebrate neurodiversity. Students need to feel comfortable hearing discussions about brain-based differences, including learning differences. Brain Buddies participants do not need a diagnosis or suspected diagnosis to attend and learn about their amazing brains.
Schedule
There are two Brain Buddies groups in the 2025-26 school year.
Fall Brain Buddies
Wednesdays, 3:00 – 4:00pm from October 1, 2025 – December 10, 2025
Spring Brain Buddies
Wednesdays, 3:00 – 4:00pm from February 4, 2026 – April 29, 2026
There is no group on March 18 or 25.
Please note that this group is not a parent participation program. It is an excellent opportunity to help your child build independence.
Apply NowNext Steps
Fees
The fees for each Brain Buddies group are on a sliding scale based on annual household income.
– $140 for households earning less than $70,000
– $300 for households earning between $70-$85,000
– $400 for households earning between $85-$120,000
– $550 for households earning between $120-$160,000
– $625 for households earning over $160,000
Apply Now
Click on the link below and complete an application. After you apply, an LDS team member will contact you for a brief conversation to learn about your child and their needs and goals. The LDS team will then send you a placement offer to confirm a spot for your child in the program. Applying does not guarantee a spot for your child in the program, as spaces are limited.
Apply NowFamily Communication
If you want to learn more about supporting your child with their social and communication skills, explore LDS’ Family Coaching.
Family Coaching
Become a Donor
Thank you to our supporters who contribute to making our programming accessible for families in need. If you would like to contribute to our Bright Futures Bursary Fund to ensure all students have access to the educational support they deserve, please consider making a monthly or one-time donation.
Donate Contact UsThank you to our donors
Our donors play a vital role in sustaining our programming. We are so grateful for their continued support of children and youth in our community with learning differences.