Graham S.
MSc, BSc
Speech Language Pathologist
Learn More Social Explorers
This dynamic, neuroaffirming social communication group, developed and led by a Speech-Language Pathologist, supports learners in grades 4-5 and 6-7 to understand social communication, foster emotional growth, and form friendships.
Who
This group is for neurodivergent learners gaining understanding and experience of social communication. Learn more about Grade 4-5 Explorers and Grade 6-7 Explorers below.
Where
Social Explorer groups meet at our East Vancouver Centre.
When
Social Explorers meet Wednesdays from 4:20 – 5:20pm. See below for further dates and details.
Why Social Explorers?
Many neurodivergent youth 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 engage in social settings where it feels safe and natural to be themselves.
This neuroaffirming group encourages authentic social connection and fosters emotional awareness and personal growth. In this environment, differences are embraced, and students have fun interacting with peers, building friendships, and gaining confidence in their communication and social interactions.
Program Details
In Social Explorers, your child participates in enjoyable social activities and structured programming to help them develop understanding and experience in the following:
- Inferencing (understanding what is being said or implied)
- Initiating and sustaining conversations with peers
- Resolving peer conflicts and repairing relationships
- Initiating and sustaining friendships
- Understanding and responding to jokes, teasing and sarcasmInterpreting non-verbal communication and body language
Experienced staff guide youth in small groups of no more than 10 learners as they develop their understanding and experience .
Neuroaffirming Approach
A neuroaffirming approach shapes this group. We acknowledge, support, accept, discuss our differences, and learn more about neurodiversity. Due to this, learners who are unaware of their diagnoses are not a suitable fit for this program. Social Explorer participants need to feel comfortable hearing discussions about various learning differences.
Schedule
There are two Social Explorer groups in the 2025-26 school year.
Grade 4-5 Explorers
Wednesdays, 4:20 – 5:20pm from October 1, 2025 – January 28, 2026
There are no sessions on December 24 or 31.
Grade 6-7 Explorers
Wednesdays, 4:20 – 5:20pm from February 4, 2026 – June 3, 2026
There are no sessions 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
Social Explorer fees are on a sliding scale based on annual household income.
– $155 for households earning less than $70,000
– $300 for households earning between $70-$85,000
– $425 for households earning between $85-$120,000
– $745 for households earning between $120-$160,000
– $825 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’s 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 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.