Arts & Recreation Programs

Delivered through partnerships with the local pools and swimming instructors, ASNL Swimming Lessons prioritizes individualized, private swim instruction for participants who are unable to access typical group lessons, supporting equitable access to recreational programming.

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Registration: each region has different registration times & yearly schedules depending on pool and lesson availability

  

Location(s): Avalon

Open to anyone who is looking for a fun way to get outdoors and connect with others during the year. Fall & Winter adventures can include activities such as hiking, nature crafts, snowshoe, cross-country ski, downhill sledding, or build snow sculptures. Spring & Summer adventures can include hiking, outdoor swimming, local, provincial or national parks exploration, canoeing, kayaking or other water activities depending on local availability and access.

 

Registration: each region has different registration times & yearly schedules. 

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Location(s): Avalon

Designed by neurodivergent staff, the program removes common barriers to arts participation through sensory-informed spaces, flexible engagement options, and individualized supports. Adapted tools, low-stimulation environments, and multiple communication approaches ensure autistic participants of all ages and support levels can participate comfortably and authentically. 

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Programs under our Art Exploration offerings can include Adult Painting Group, Mindful Makers (sensory art program), Explorers Guild, Dino Crafts (or other themed craft offerings).  Each program offering is aimed at different age demographics: children (ages 5-8), youth (ages 9-12), teens (ages 13-17) or adults (ages 18+). 

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Registration: each region has different registration times & yearly schedules 

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Location(s): Avalon

This program is open to younger children and their caregivers and is intentionally designed to reduce common barriers to participation. Activities are sensory-friendly, flexible, and adaptable to a wide range of abilities and support needs. The welcoming, non-judgmental environment allows families to participate at their own pace, ensuring all children feel safe, included, and valued. 

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1-1.5-hour sessions are delivered in gym (alternate rec space) or outdoor play spaces and follow a combination of structured physical play games, and free-play, child-led activities. This balance encourages exploration, self-regulation, and physical activity while allowing caregivers to engage meaningfully alongside their children. Usually delivered in summer months when weather is fair.   

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Registration: opens about two weeks prior to start date, around late June for July offering 

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Location(s): Avalon

Physical Art Troupe (PhArT) is a social circus program that enables participants of all ages to come together to learn the artistic aspects of circus performance while building the social skills that help us to be flexible, find balance, and be resilient in juggling the challenges that come our way. At the end of each semester, participants are expected to produce a performance piece that may be recorded or shared live with an audience.  

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Program themes can include physical circus & variety show acts, puppet making and puppetry performance, songwriting and performance, improve, film writing and film making.  

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The program is offered in two long semesters (14 weeks October – February & March – June) and one short semester (8 weeks July – August) annually. The program is broken down into 3 separate groups based on age: 12 and under, 13 -18, and 18+. Participants meet once per week, are guided through the curriculum, and supported in their development of a group and/or individual performance piece. 

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Registration: will go live through our social media and through our email list about one month prior to program start dates 

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Location(s): Avalon  

Gaming Group is designed as a low-pressure, social space where participants can engage with either video games, or board/card games at their own comfort level. Participants may play collaboratively, in parallel, or independently supporting varying social needs and communication styles. Multiple room options accommodate sensory preferences, with quieter spaces for board games and louder areas for console play. Participants may use shared equipment or bring their own devices, reducing financial barriers and increasing access. 

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Staff provide light facilitation to encourage positive interactions, shared play, and respectful use of space. Clear guidelines (e.g., headphones for laptops) support a welcoming, structured environment while maintaining autonomy.  

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In the Avalon region this program is offered for 3 age groups, 12 & under, 13-17, and 18+. Other regions offer to teens, adults or a combination of, depending on demand. 

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Registration: in the Avalon, continued enrollment for those who prefer, and registration will open quarterly to attract new participants as needed. 

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Location(s): Avalon