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SNAP® Programs

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​*NEW* We have launched a SNAP Resource Guide for parents. To view the document, click here (PDF).

What is SNAP®?

SNAP®, which stands for Stop Now And Plan, is an evidence-based behavioural model that provides a framework for teaching children struggling with behaviour issues, and their parents, effective emotional regulation, self-control and problem-solving skills. The primary goal of SNAP is to keep children in school and out of trouble by helping them make better choices "in the moment."

SNAP® Services - What to Expect

What programs are available?

The core SNAP programs, SNAP Boys and SNAP Girls, are gender-specific programs for children ages 6-11 experiencing disruptive behaviour problems.

Other SNAP programs include: SNAP Youth Programs, SNAP Schools, SNAP for Aboriginal Communities, SNAP Youth Justice and Camp Wimodausis. For descriptions of these programs, please see the Other SNAP programs section.

For more information, refer to the SNAP Program Book (PDF). 

Who should attend SNAP?

Boys and girls, ages 6-11, experiencing serious behavioural problems at home, at school, with persons in authority, and in the community can benefit from the SNAP Boys/SNAP Girls programs.

Where is SNAP available?

The SNAP Boys and SNAP Girls program are delivered by Child Development Institute in Toronto (St. Clair Gardens location) and through licensed SNAP Affiliates across Canada and around the world.

SNAP is in the midst of a national expansion project. The SNAP National Expansion Campaign, supported by LEAP: The Centre for Social Impact and their sector partners (Boston Consulting Group, Cossette, Ernst and Young, McCarthy Tetrault, Offord Group), aims to increase the number of SNAP Affiliates to 140 across Canada, making SNAP available to an additional 20,000 children and families.

Is there a fee for SNAP programs?

Funding from government, corporate and private donations allow us to provide SNAP programs at no cost. Free child care for younger children is available while parents attend group sessions. Assistance with transportation to and from group sessions is available upon request.

How do I enroll my child in SNAP?

In Toronto, parents are encouraged to contact the Intake Line at 416-603-1827, ext. 3143. The intake worker will ask you a series of questions to determine eligibility for SNAP.  

Children under 12 who have had contact with the law can be directly referred by police through the Toronto Centralized Services Police Protocol intake line at 416-654-8989. Many other communities have modelled their police-community referral processes after the Toronto model.

Outside of Toronto, please contact a local SNAP Affiliate.

How can I refer a child to SNAP?

Teachers, social workers, police and other service providers may facilitate a referral with written consent from the parent or legal guardian.

“I knew I had two options: keep being a bully, fighting and probably ending up in jail, or finding a new way of life. SNAP helped me learn how to control my anger and got me on the path I’m on today.”

SNAP Boy