Our services & programs

How can we help?

Combining our child-centric, family-focused approach with world-class innovation, CDI services are designed to support the unique needs and well-being of children, youth, families and communities.

Testimonials

“My husband and I felt that we were joined by other parents, caregivers, who had gone through very similar experiences, and there was a real comfort in knowing that you were not alone.”

“My child has these tools and they have a confidence level that comes from this ongoing work that they’ve done through the programs at CDI.”

“Here to Help was a beautiful program; it changed my life – giving me a different perspective on what it means to be a victim of violence.”

“MIM has helped me learn how to respond sensitively to my kid. It’s been a little bit easier to understand my daughter’s emotions because of all the strategies we have been introduced to.”

“Our family has benefitted from SNAP. I think that many other children in the classroom have also benefited from the program’s impulse control and anger management strategies.”

a group of kids and a teacher

“The SNAP program breaks down barriers and provides a safe place to build back their family. Our community recognizes these strengths in the SNAP program and the opportunity it provides for the families.”

Children and youth need your support

SNAP graduate image

“Vandalism, starting fires, getting in fights — I didn’t really care what I was doing. SNAP showed me that I have a choice in the way I act.“

– Evan, SNAP® Graduate

CDI’s evidence-informed early intervention programs provide the critical support necessary to give youth like Evan a chance before they head down a more dangerous path.

About Us

What we do

Kids playing.

Fostering positive transformations in mental health for over a century, CDI is a world-class leader trusted in helping children, youth and families through a wide range of evidence-informed services to build lasting change.

Press Room and News

Latest News

FAQ

What programs and services does CDI offer?

Child Development Institute (CDI) offers a range of programs and services to meet the needs of children, youth and families, including:

Child & Youth Mental Health Services:

  • Social, Emotional and Behavioural Counselling Services
  • Learning Disabilities and Mental Health (LDMH) Counselling Services
  • Therapeutic Recreation Programs

Gender-Based Violence Services:

  • Mothers in Mind® (MIM)
  • Here to Help
  • Shelters Program
  • School Liaison Program
  • Taste of Home
  • Transitional and Housing Support Program (THSP)

Early Years & Child Care Services:

  • Four licensed Early Learning Centres (ELC)
  • Parkdale-High Park EarlyON Child and Family Centre
  • Child Care Consultation Services

How do I register or make a referral for CDI’s programs and/or services?

To register or make a referral, please reach out to our team at info@childdevelop.ca or call our intake line at (416) 603-1827. Our Intake team will ask questions to better understand your situation and how CDI’s programs/services can address your needs.

Does CDI offer translation and/or interpretation services?

Yes, CDI works with community partners to offer services and supports in a variety of languages. For more information, please reach out to info@childdevelop.ca.

Is there a long wait time for service?

There is no waiting period for many of CDI’s services, however our wait times vary by program and service. Please contact our intake team at (416) 603-1827 to inquire about service availability. If necessary, our team will help you join our waitlist and explore alternative programs in the interim.

Please note: CDI’s gender-based violence services do not have a waitlist.

Where does CDI offer its programs and services?

CDI offers our Child & Youth Mental Health, Gender-Based Violence, and Early Years & Child Care services across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). This includes at our various service centres, as well as in community locations, ensuring that our services are accessible for all.

Through licensed affiliate sites, CDI’s Mothers in Mind® (MIM) program is delivered in communities across Ontario, and our SNAP® (Stop Now and Plan) program continues to expand across Canada, and internationally.

Are CDI’s programs and services offered free of charge?

Most of CDI’s services are available for families free of charge. While some of our programs and our Early Learning and Child Care Centres have associated fees, CDI receives partial funding from the Government of Ontario, City of Toronto and United Way Greater Toronto to help subsidize services for families who may need assistance.

Please contact our intake team at info@childdevelop.ca or (416) 603-1827 for more information.