Autism Nova Scotia - Strait Area Chapter

06/01/2026

We are excited to be hosting Summer Camp in the Strait Area, with Natalie Stevens returning to support 2026 regional camp programming!

Natalie is very familiar to the Strait Area community, and many families will recognize her dedication, care, and longstanding involvement with local autism programming and supports.

To learn more or apply, please visit: https://app.amilia.com/store/en/autismns/shop/programs/132420
Details on local camp locations and schedules will be shared soon!

We know the past number of weeks have brought change for many across the region, and we are grateful to have Natalie supporting campers, families, and camp staff throughout the summer months.

As we continue navigating this transition, our team remains engaged in ongoing conversations around how we can continue supporting Strait Area families and community members moving forward. For now, we hope this update brings some encouragement and reassurance to the region.

05/01/2026

Effective April 30, Autism Nova Scotia has closed its Strait Area office location in Mulgrave.

As we move forward, we are continuing to work collaboratively to re-establish in-person opportunities where possible and re-engage Strait Area staff to best support the local community.

While in-person programs in the Strait Area will be more limited at this time, virtual supports will continue to be available, and in-person programs and services can be accessed in nearby communities, including Pictou and Cape Breton.

We’re pleased to share that Summer Camp will still be offered locally in the Strait Area (Port Hawkesbury & Saint Peters) for Summer 2026.

Summer Camp applications will open May 6 by age group:
• Ages 5–12 – 11:00 AM
• Ages 13–17 – 12:00 PM
• Ages 18+ – 1:00 PM

To learn more and prepare for launch day, we encourage you to visit our website and review the 2026 Summer Camp FAQ: https://www.autismnovascotia.ca/programs/regional-summer-camps/

We know that navigating change can be challenging, and we are truly grateful for the understanding, patience, and support our community shows.

If you have questions or are looking for family support, please connect with: Leah Poirier, Chapter Support Manager - [email protected] and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

03/23/2026

Due to the weather our swim program is cancelled today. Mondays have not been kind!

03/21/2026

Reminder of our family swim tomorrow. Lots of space.

03/18/2026

Looking for something fun to do tomorrow? Head to the Mabou Athletic Centre on March 18 for an evening on the ice!

We’re kicking things off at 4:00 p.m. with a one-hour sensory skate. This calm, low-stimulus session is designed to create a comfortable and welcoming space for individuals with sensory needs.

At 5:00 p.m., the ice opens up for a family skate, with all ages and abilities welcome to join in.

No registration, no cost—just show up and enjoy. See you on the ice!

03/09/2026

For those registered in our Water Awareness and Basic Swim Lessons here are the dates remaining for classes (we had some storm days to make up): March 9 (today), 23 and 30. April 13, 20, 27. Mark them on your calendar. :)

03/08/2026

This Tuesday, the Recreation and Community Wellness Team is hosting a Sensory Skate at the Al MacInnis Sports Centre in Port Hood.

It's a calm, low-stimulus event is designed to make skating more accessible for individuals with sensory or accessibility needs, and to foster safety, confidence, and a sense of belonging on the ice.

No registration is required and there is no cost. For more information, contact [email protected] or [email protected].

03/08/2026

Reminder, for those registered — our last Learn to Skate is today 6:30-7:30. Please feel free to bring a friend or family member on the ice with you. 😊

Our learn to skate program is canceled this Sunday and our last class is moved to March 8 from 6:30-7:30.
Our awesome volunteers are away at their playoff games for their minor hockey teams.
Sorry for the inconvenience.

03/08/2026

Hey Strait Area families. If you would like to go tubing this March Break contact Allana at the Cape Breton Chapter and she will get you registered. 💕

‼️ UPDATE ‼️ THIS EVENT IS NOW FULL ‼️

📣 MARCH BREAK FAMILY EVENT 📣

Our CB Region Chapter and Ski Ben Eoin have partnered to offer an exclusive time for families to try SNOW TUBING!

We are inviting autistic individuals (and their families) the opportunity to join us during this exciting ‘March Break Family Event’.

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The cost of tubing to families is $5/ticket, and the remainder of the tubing fee will be compliments of Autism NS Cape Breton Chapter.

Pre-Registration is required as space is limited.

The ONLY way to pre-register is to email us at [email protected]

Use subject title Snow Tubing 2026 and include the following in your email:

- Contact name and phone number
- Number of tickets you wish to purchase
- Name(s) of participant(s) attending

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Event Date: FRIDAY MARCH 20, 2026

Pre-registration will be confirmed by 4pm Wednesday, Mar 18th from Autism NS, then you may register at Ski Ben Eoin on Friday 12:30pm-1pm.
Snow Tubing 1pm-2:30pm

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*Each rider must wear a CSA approved helmet. If you do not have one, you can rent a helmet when you register on site.

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Questions about this event can be sent to [email protected]

We hope to see you at Ski Ben Eoin ❄️💙