🌱 Spring Learning Services

Social Groups for Growing Minds

Small, intentional groups where kids and teens build emotional skills, real friendships, and lifelong tools — through play, practice, and peer connection.

The Magic of Learning Together

Focused, Purposeful Learning

Daily routines are full of big emotion moments. Our groups use those moments intentionally — with guided practice, not guesswork.

Evidence-Based Strategies

Rooted in ABA therapy and mindfulness-based approaches, every session builds skills in a way that generalizes to real life.

Strengths-First Philosophy

We meet every child where they are, celebrate what makes them unique, and build from there — together.

Real Peer Connections

Small group sizes (max 3!) mean children practice skills in an authentic social setting — not just one-on-one with a therapist.

Start Your Journey →

🌱 Current Programs

Find a Group Near You

We run Social Groups out of our Orillia location and in Barrie. Look below to see current and upcoming availability!

Emotion Explorers (Orillia/Barrie)

A social group for ages 4–7 to explore big feelings through play

Spots Available

Your kiddo will learn to

Identify and talk about emotions
Practice mindfulness & calming tools
Develop meaningful friendships
Advocate for sensory & accommodation needs

Group Details:

Who — Ages 4–7 Max 3 children per group.

Format — Six week block, 1 hour per session.

Funding — OAP funding eligible, we'll help guide you.

🗓️ Current Block

April 11 – May 16, 2025

Sat 9:15–10:15 am

Sat 10:30–11:30 am

Reserve a Spot →

Mind Quest Social Club

A virtual ACT based social group for ages 7-10

Dates Coming Soon

Your kiddo will learn to

Explore their values and personal strengths
Tune into body sensations and thoughts in social situations
Create and grow a fictional character throughout the group
Make friends and build real connections
Set meaningful goals and celebrate their progress

Group Details:

Who — Ages 7–10, max 5 children per group.

Format — Once a week, 1 hour per session.

Where — Fully virtual, join from anywhere.

Funding — OAP funding eligible, we'll help guide you.

🗓️ Current Block

Future group dates to be announced!

Join our waitlist and we'll reach out when Barrie dates are confirmed.

Join Our Waitlist →

🌱 Commonly Asked Questions

Everything you need to know

Is this group right for my child?

We offer two social groups depending on your child's age and needs. Emotion Explorers (ages 4–7, Orillia/Barrie) is designed for younger children ready to explore emotions in a small, supportive peer setting — great for emotion identification, regulation, and social connection. Mind Quest Social Club (ages 7–10, virtual) uses an ACT-based approach, helping older kids explore values, body sensations, build connections, and set goals. Not sure which fits? Book a free 30-minute consultation and we'll help you decide.

Why are the groups so small?

Intentionally small groups mean every child gets meaningful practice time, clinician attention, and genuine peer interactions. Emotion Explorers keeps it to max 3 children — the sweet spot for authentic social dynamics in a safe, regulated environment for younger kids. Mind Quest caps at max 5 children, allowing for richer peer dynamics while still feeling contained and supportive.

What does a typical session look like?

Both groups run for 1 hour per session. Emotion Explorers blends structured activities with play-based learning — children might explore an emotion through a game, practice a calming strategy, or work on a collaborative activity. Mind Quest sessions are virtual and follow an ACT-based format, where kids develop a fictional character, explore thoughts and body sensations, and work toward personal goals. Every session builds on the last.

Can this be funded through OAP?

Yes! Both groups at Spring Learning Services are eligible for Ontario Autism Program (OAP) funding. We're happy to guide you through the process — just reach out and we'll walk you through what's needed.

What if Mind Quest dates aren't announced yet?

Dates for Mind Quest Social Club are coming soon! In the meantime, get in touch to express your interest and we'll make sure you're notified as soon as spots open up. Waitlisted families always get first access.

What if my child needs more support?

Both social groups pair wonderfully with our One-to-One Therapy or Skill Packages. Many families use groups as a complement to individual sessions. We'll help you find the right combination for your child's unique needs.

How long does each group run?

Emotion Explorers runs as a six-week block, so families can plan ahead and children experience meaningful progression over time. Mind Quest runs once a week for 1 hour — specific block lengths will be confirmed when dates are announced. Join the waitlist to be notified first!