Aboriginal Supported Child Development

The Aboriginal Supported Child Development (ASCD) program provides early childhood and youth support that blends cultural knowledge with evidence-based developmental care.

At a Glance

The Aboriginal Supported Child Development (ASCD) program provides early childhood and youth support that blends cultural knowledge with evidence-based developmental care.

Who's It for

Children requiring additional support in the early years. ASCD supports children above the age of seven on a case-by-case basis.

Where It's Offered

Vanderhoof, Saik’uz, Nadleh Whut’en, Stellaten, Burns Lake, Yekooche, and Takla.

What We Help With

  • Skill development
  • One-on-one early childhood support
  • Developmental screening assessments
  • Group programming in early childhood settings

How To Access

Families, caregivers or professionals (with parental consent) can submit a referral form. They can connect with the ASCD liaison designated to their community or speak with the acting manager of ASCD.

What's the Cost

Free (funded by the Ministry of Children and Family Services)

About the Program

Every child should be able to participate fully in their preschool, daycare and community experiences. Aboriginal Supported Child Development blends cultural knowledge with evidence-based early childhood approaches to help children build key skills, confidence and independence.

Our team works alongside families, educators and communities, providing support in homes, daycares, preschools and community spaces. Services are tailored to each child’s strengths, needs and family goals, helping create inclusive environments where Carrier and Sekani children can grow, learn and thrive.

Who This Serves

This program supports children, youth and families seeking developmental guidance and culturally informed support, including:

  • Children in the early years experiencing developmental delays
  • Families looking for early childhood and developmental support services
  • Caregivers, daycares and preschools seeking culturally informed guidance
  • Children with or without a formal diagnosis
  • Supports for youth from ages 7-18 on a case-by-case basis

How to access:

  • Open to children and youth ages 0–18 living in participating communities
  • No diagnosis required
  • Families and caregivers may self-refer

Referrals from professionals are accepted with parent or guardian consent

How We Can Support You

Support developing key early childhood skills
One-on-one developmental support where needed
Timely developmental screening assessments
Collaboration with caregivers, teachers and community partners

How to Access Support

Our referral form is available online here or from the CSFS Vanderhoof office

  • Children living in Takla, Yekooche, Stellaquo, Saik’uz, Burns Lake, Vanderhoof and Nadleh Whut’en may access services
  • Professional referrals are recommended to have parental consent

Meet the Team

Megan Weaver

Early Years Manager
778-916-4251
mbaher@csfs.org

Contacts and Locations

Early Years Manager
1-866-567-2333
250-570-9309
rmalcolm@csfs.org

Vanderhoof Office

240 West Stewart Street Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0

Monday to Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
(Service hours may vary weekly based on client needs)

Submit an Event

Event Submission Form
Time of Event

Maximum file size: 5MB