Children and Youth
Reception House supports newcomer children and youth as they adjust to a new community, build friendships, participate in activities, and strengthen their sense of belonging.
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About Children and Youth
Children and youth may face emotional, social, and academic challenges as they adjust to a new country, language, school system, and community. Reception House provides youth-focused programs and activities that help young newcomers feel supported, build confidence, connect with peers, and develop a stronger sense of belonging in Waterloo Region.
Connection, confidence, and belonging.
This service helps children and youth participate in supportive activities, build social connections, practise English, and feel more connected to their new community.
How We Can Help
Youth Community Garden
In the spring and summer, newcomer youth can join our community garden program, "The Welcome Garden". Here they learn to grow their own food, connect with nature and be part of the wider community. This helps foster a sense of belonging, and participants also gain independence by learning a new, practical skill.
Children's Activities
During their first month in Canada, children staying at our temporary accommodation enjoy a variety of activities including arts & crafts, games, and mindfulness programs. These activities are provided with help from our wonderful community partners and volunteers. Each activity is designed to support children as they adjust to a new environment, and prepare them to join public school.
English Conversation Circle
English is an essential tool for newcomer children and youth to adapt to life in Canada. We create opportunities for children and youth to practice English through peer interaction in our English Conversation Circles.
Active Sports
Our recreation and sport nights support newcomer youth by promoting physical well-being, facilitating peer connections, and offering opportunities to practice English. Through teamwork and shared activities, these events break down social barriers, reduce resettlement stress, and introduce young people to Canadian cultural norms.
Social Connection
We help youth build social connection through games and field trips. Board games support newcomer youth in Canada by breaking down language barriers, helping them make new friends, and building their confidence in practicing English. Field Trips take youth to explore local museums, festivals, events, and community spaces in Waterloo Region.
Workshops & Info Sessions
We host newcomer youth workshops that tackle sensitive topics like discrimination, substance abuse, stress, and self-improvement. These sessions teach young people healthy ways to handle personal challenges and protect their mental health. By learning together, youth can set life goals, build self-esteem, make new friends, and feel more at home in their new community.
Who Can Access This Service
- ✓ Newcomer children and youth
- ✓ Government-assisted refugee families
- ✓ Youth adjusting to school and community life
- ✓ Clients referred by Reception House staff
How It Works
Connect with staff
A staff member connects with the child, youth, or family to understand interests, needs, and available supports.
Review needs
We review school, language, social, recreational, and emotional adjustment needs.
Join activities
Children and youth are connected with programs, activities, conversation circles, trips, or creative opportunities.
Build belonging
We continue supporting youth as they build friendships, confidence, and connection in their new community.
Need Children and Youth Support?
Our team can help children, youth, and families connect with activities, support, and community opportunities.
Contact Us