Infant/Child Development Program

Our program offers services to families and children 0-6 years of age who are at risk for delay or who have been diagnosed with a developmental, physical or sensory disability. The team consists of professionals dedicated to assisting caregivers optimize the growth and development of their child during the early years, and ensuring caregivers of special needs children have access to the appropriate supports. 

Services We Provide:

Infant and Child Development workers are available to provide home visits with flexible hours to meet with families and their children ages 0-6. Workers can monitor a child’s development using standardized screening tools and assessments, and early intervention programs can be developed to meet the unique needs of each child.

Infant and Child Development Workers are familiar with services available to children and families in the community and at the provincial and federal level. Referrals and assistance connecting with rehabilitation programs, socialization opportunities, financial support and parenting support are part of the services provided to families parenting young children at risk for delay.  We believe that a comprehensive network of supports in the early years leads to optimal growth and development for children with special needs. The following are examples of supports and services available to children and families:

  • The Canadian Down Syndrome Society - A national non-profit organization providing information, advocacy and education about Down syndrome. The CDSS supports self-advocates, parents and families through all stages of life.

  • FAS Ontario - Provides services regarding prevention, diagnosis and support services for caregivers and people diagnosed with FASD.

  • The Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy - The Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy (OFCP) is a non profit charitable organization dedicated to supporting people with cerebral palsy (CP) in Ontario.

  • The Easter Seals Society - Easter Seals Ontario provides programs and services to children and youth with physical disabilities across Ontario to help them achieve greater independence, accessibility and integration.

  • March of Dimes - March of Dimes Canada provides a wide range of services to people with physical disabilities throughout the country.

  • Autism Ontario - An organization dedicated to ensuring that each individual with ASD is provided the means to achieve quality of life as a respected member of society.

  • The Ministry of Children and Youth Services - Financial supports available to families caring for special needs children.

  • Northwords Pre-School Speech and Language Program - Provides screening, assessment and intervention for children 0-6.

  • The Best Start Network - A network of local resources and services for children ages 0-6 in the Rainy River District.

Our program offers assistance and advocacy services with transition to school for special needs children.  More information on the Special Education Act in Ontario is available at:

We can also assist parents who have questions and concerns regarding their child’s behaviour.  One on one and group parenting programs are offered as well as referrals to services for assessment and diagnosis of ongoing behavioural issues.

Parents wishing to become involved may request assistance by calling the central access service FIREFLY, located in the KRRDCFS offices.

  • In Fort Frances, Rainy River and the surrounding area call 807-274-7787 or toll free at 1-800-465-1100 or drop by the office at 240 First Street East, Fort Frances, ON, P9A 1K5.

  • In Atikokan and the surrounding area, call 807-597-4528 or drop by the office at 211 Main Street, Atikokan, ON, P0T 1C0.

The referral information from FIREFLY will be sent to the appropriate branch office of Kenora-Rainy River Districts Child and Family Services and a worker will be assigned.