AFFILIATED WITH
Welcome to the Kanata Learning Centre
We offer a full range of education services in French, high school math (French and English), sciences (French and English) and English, as well as our usual range of learning skills/ reading / writing / fine motor services. Along with our added availability in French and high school level courses, as always, study skills, exam prep and organization will be worked on alongside the academics.
We offer education services Mondays through Friday from 4-8 pm as well as all day Saturday.
All of our full services are available as in person sessions, or remote sessions.
Our services and programs are all supervised by Dr. Rebecca Moore, Director of the Kanata Psychology and Counselling Centre. Not only does this mean your child’s progress and program is monitored by our psychologist, it also means that all of our services are claimable under most benefit plans.
While we are currently embracing social distancing, our educators are equipped to provide our individualized education services through video.
In addition, our award winning Read LS program is available for home use.
Please contact us to set up or continue your services by e-mailing us at barnes@kanatalearningcentre.com
or by scrolling below and filling out the contact information form.
Is your child struggling or refusing to attend school? Do you need support in navigating the school system and understanding your child’s IEP? Are you wondering whether your child has a learning disability, has significant struggles in reading and writing or just needs extra support? We can help. At the Kanata Learning Centre, we provide comprehensive and individualized services to help your child thrive and to support you along the way. Contact us to learn more about how we can help your child.
About the Kanata Learning Centre
The Kanata Learning Centre came into existence in response to a growing awareness of the lack of resources within the school system and the community to support children and youth with learning needs. With extensive experience in school psychology and special education and a passion for helping children, our goal is to bridge that gap, enabling your child to reach his or her potential. We are the only education centre in Ottawa that has a full-time psychologist on staff to assist in the creation and implementation of our education plans.
In contrast to most tutoring programs, our mandate is to create an individualized program for your child based on their profile of learning strengths and needs, which is designed to enhance their development and performance at school and at home. Whether your child comes to us as a supplement to school, or during school hours, our goal is to work collaboratively with you, your child, and your child’s school, to help remove barriers to learning, and to increase your child’s motivation and self-confidence. In addition, many of our services are covered by health insurance plans. Contact us for more information on this.
We offer specialized programming to target specific areas of remediation, such as reading, writing, and math. We also offer support in developing tools and accommodations for other learning challenges, such as fine motor skills and executive functioning challenges. We understand that parents are highly invested in their children’s well-being and success, as they are their children’s primary advocates. We offer support, guidance, and advocacy services to parents navigating the school system.
We are affiliated with the Kanata Psychology and Counselling Centre, which, among other services, provides psychoeducational assessments and school consultation services for families with children experiencing school-related challenges. We are open to the public, and look forward to the opportunity to help children and youth in our community reach their potential.
Our Administrative Team
Dr. Rebecca Moore
Director, Kanata Learning Centre
C.Psych. Clinical and School Psychologist
I am a school and clinical psychologist registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. I have worked in a variety of settings since 2003, including inpatient and outpatient hospital settings, community mental health clinics, private practice settings and schools. I spent 3 years working with the Ottawa Carleton District School Board and eventually opened my own private practice, the Kanata Psychology and Counselling Centre. Kanata Psychology has been in existence since 2014 and has been at the forefront of providing mental health services to Ottawa’s west end. I am pleased to now be able to provide educational services to these same communities. I have a particular interest in school psychology and believe that all children should be provided the opportunity to achieve to their maximum potential. Children may struggle in school for a variety of reasons, including problems with attention and concentration, learning disabilities, gifted ability, or emotional difficulties. As a school psychologist my goal is to clarify the child’s profile of intellectual strengths and weaknesses, learning style, and academic skills, in order to determine the best way to help the child succeed. Understanding a child’s unique learning profile can also enable parents and teachers provide support and accommodations and utilize children’s strengths, enabling them to become more proficient and confident learners.
Elizabeth Barnes
Centre Coordinator, Kanata Learning Centre
I have been working in the education and community service settings for over twenty years. I consider myself a late bloomer, as I did not attend university until my youngest child at the time was in school full time. It is through my experience of raising a young family while studying full time, combined with my many years as a foster parent and adoptive parent that I gained insight into all aspects of our school systems, support services that are available, and how to effectively advocate for a child’s needs, all the while building and maintaining strong and healthy relationships between school officials, families, and other dedicated professionals who may be involved in the life of a child. It really does take a village to raise a child.
I believe that every child has a right to an equal opportunity to learn in an environment that meets their needs. My role at Kanata Learning Centre allows me to use my experience, knowledge and passion to help those who need it most…children and youth who are struggling to get their academic, emotional and social needs met. In addition, I am able to offer support and information to parents as they navigate the school systems, advocate for services for their children, and work with the school as a team to best support their child.
Our Educators
Helen Harrison
Born and raised in the UK, I moved to the Kanata area 14 years ago and I’m so glad I did. I could not have chosen a better place to raise my two daughters, both of whom are now university students. Working as an educator for over 10 years, mostly specializing in the ESL field, I found great success in engaging and building strong relationships with students. I particularly love working with children and young adults. My approach to teaching is based on the premise that all students can learn and be successful, once we find the best way to teach them.
Adam Armstrong
I am currently in the teacher education program at the University of Ottawa for Intermediate and Senior Mathematics and Biology. I have an Honours double major Bachelors degree in Mathematics and Biology from McMaster University as well as a post-graduate certificate in Environmental Management and Assessments from Niagara College. I have always been drawn to teaching and strive to have my students understand all concepts to the best of their ability while having as much fun as possible. Following my undergraduate degree, I spent a year teaching English in South Korea and absolutely loved it. When I am not teaching or studying you can usually find me working on some new art project or tending to my growing plant collection.
Élodie Héran
I am currently completing my Master’s degree in Physiotherapy at the University of Ottawa. I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences as I always had a passion for the healthcare field growing up.
My passion for working with children and helping them achieve their goals started at a very young age. I coached recreational and competitive gymnastics to children aged 3-16 years old and volunteered for elementary schools in person and virtually. When I volunteered as a French tutor, I realized how much I
enjoyed teaching my native language to children in a way that was both enriching and fun at the same time. I would like this passion for the French language to be reflected in my session to encourage students to want to learn more. I strongly believe that being bilingual transfers over into all
communication skills and increases the number of opportunities in the future. In my free time, I love going to the gym, mixing music, traveling, and spending time with my family and friends.
Sepidar Golestaneh
I have recently obtained my Honours Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Ottawa,
where I specialized in ecology, evolution, and animal behaviour. I love being a student, whether at
school or learning new skills at work, and I hope to encourage others to enjoy the academic
experience by making the learning process easier (and a bit more fun!). It is a great privilege to be in
school and learn such amazing things, and I would like my students to see that. When I’m not nestled in a book, you can find me watching cheesy 80s movies or playing with my dog.
Jamie Powers
I am a teacher with the OCSB and have just returned to Canada after 7 years abroad, two years in the UK and 5 years in the United Arab of Emirates (Dubai) where I worked as a teacher. I am originally from Barrie/Orillia Ontario but now call Stittsville/Kanata home. I have an undergrad degree in French Language and European Studies from the University of Guelph. I completed my Bachelor of Education at Tyndale College in Toronto and completed my Master of Professional Education at the University of Western Ontario. I have a wide range of teaching experience, teaching everything from JK-Grade 2 Physical Education, Grade 3, 4 and 5 (core subjects) as well as Grade 10-12 Religion. I always had a passion for working with children and supporting their growth and learning whether that be on the ice coaching a learn to skate program (figure skating) to volunteering in schools and early year centers. When I am not teaching, I love to spend my spare time on the ice (figure skating) or with family and friends. I also love travelling and exploring different cultures around the world as it believe there is so much we can learn from others.
Zackary Weaver
I am in my first year doing a Master’s program in Anthropology at the University of Ottawa. My undergraduate background is in English and Development Studies. In grade school, I often needed extra help and began receiving tutoring services through local institutions and private help. In high school, I tutored for fun in my free time after completing my required volunteer hours. Additionally, I have worked with an online platform providing one-on-one homework and essay help for students from elementary to high school. I am a firm believer in the Socratic method as a teaching device. I believe that you can instill confidence in young students by treating them as equals and attending to them as distinct individuals. In my free time, I enjoy playing video games, reading comics and manga, among other sorts of literature. I like to ensure my cat is well-read and versed in a variety of music, as those are activities we enjoy together.
Sarah Smith
I grew up in the south of England, and attended university in Cardiff, Wales, where I studied for my BSc (Hons) in Maths and It’s Applications. From there, I started my career as a Software Engineer developing software for the UK’s Trafalgar Class Submarines. Having married, my husband & I emigrated to Ottawa to continue working within the maritime and then air defense industry.
I was fortunate to be able to stay at home to raise our 4 children. I have been actively involved at the local pre-school and elementary school, and volunteered as a leader with the Girl Guides and Scouts Canada. I have learnt so much from my own children, and the numerous children that I interact with, each with their own unique needs. My goal is to support all children to see their uniqueness as a gift so they can reach their full potential.
Ryan Way
I am currently an undergraduate student at the University of Ottawa working on my Honours in Biochemistry while also taking a variety of history and chemistry courses. My interests lie in the characterization of materials and enzymes and I’m hoping to pursue a Masters relating to the crystallization of enzymes. I take great satisfaction in helping others learn and enjoy the challenge of presenting problems in new ways that allow others to better understand a subject. When not studying I am often found reading science fiction and mystery books or in the kitchen learning new recipes.
Solange Hondermann
I have taught in classroom settings for the public sector both in-person and virtually. My strongest and favourite subjects throughout my secondary and post-secondary studies were math, history, French, and English, among other specialty accounting courses. One of my favourite quotes by Nelson Mandela is ‘education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world’, it has inspired me throughout my studies, and this is the philosophy I hope to encourage in my students. Learning is unique to everyone and through creating a positive and uplifting environment I hope to help grow students’ strengths and help them navigate through any challenges.
Megan Werba
As a Registered Early Childhood Educator, I have worked with children for over 10 years. I have mostly worked with kindergarten and school aged children. I am passionate about helping them to achieve their goals in a fun and supportive way. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, taking my dog for walks, cross stitching, puzzle games, and camping. I look forward to working with you.
Chloë Bonnet
I am a second-year teacher candidate at the University of Ottawa and I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences. I’ve worked with children over a decade as a dance teacher, a camp counsellor, a tutor and currently, as a substitute teacher for the Ottawa french public school board. I am both fluent in French and English. I’ve always enjoyed working with the youth, offering them the help they need to achieve their academic or artistic goals. I strongly believe that everyone is capable of succeeding with the proper support, guidance and in a friendly environment. When I’m not teaching, I’m dancing in my home dance studio, doing crochet, learning a new vegan recipe and walking my handsome toy poodle Winter. I look forward to meeting students and creating good memories !
Julie Gourlay
I have a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Education, both from Queen’s University. I taught senior Physics in a local high school for a number of years. I am a lifelong learner who is passionate about helping young people build bright futures for themselves. I believe that everyone has something unique to contribute to the world. In my spare time, I like to be outside in the fresh air, inside playing board games with my family, or hanging out with my twin ginger cats, Fred and George Weasley.
Sarah Tobin
I am currently a member of the college of ECEs and I graduated from the Early
Childhood Education program at Algonquin College in 2015 although I have been
working in the field since early 2014. I have had the opportunity to work with
many age groups but currently work with children aged 4-12. I love to play UNO,
Yahtzee and Skip-bo! My goal is to help children realize and achieve their goals
and potential! I look forward to working with you and your child
Anne Gadbois
After having attended elementary and secondary French schools, I graduated with a BA and later a BFA from Concordia University in Montreal. My corporate career consisted of senior Human Resources positions at McGill, Via Rail and CPRail in Montreal and then at CBC Head Office in Ottawa. I have volunteered for many years in my children’s classrooms (French immersion), as a Girl Guide Leader and for the National Gallery where for over ten years I have visited scores of elementary schools in the Kanata, Stittsville and West Carleton areas to deliver the Looking at Pictures Program in English and in French. In my spare time, I tend to outdoor and indoor gardens and enjoy spending time with our daughters and our dog, Joey.
Lily Thompson
I recently graduated from the Child and Youth Care program through Fleming College. During my college placements, I had opportunities to work in schools and hospital settings, including CHEO. During my school placement, I worked with students with exceptionalities, as well as those who needed extra help.
When I was a student, some of my favorite subjects were English, History, and Math. My main goal is to help students realize their potential, and let them know that even when subjects or topics may seem difficult, there are always other ways to tackle a problem to make it manageable.
When not in the classroom, you can usually find me reading a good mystery book, or playing video games and board games with my friends and partner.
Matt McNamee
I have recently graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Cognitive Science from
Carleton University, where I specialized in Cognition and Psychology. I have experience as a
substitute teacher in the CDSBEO school board (Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario), which I obtained while doing my undergraduate degree. I have always enjoyed
teaching others and helping them achieve their academic goals, in a laid-back and supportive fashion. I believe we all must embrace the challenges that learning can bring and recognize them as part of the process towards success. In my free time I enjoy playing chess, learning programming, keeping up to date on global
politics and watching sports. I also love to travel and experience different parts of the world. I look forward to meeting students and helping them grow in a positive environment!
Paula Stemberg
I am currently a student at the Business Accounting Program at Algonquin College. During all my undergraduate studies in French Studies and Law, and graduate studies in Tax Law, I have worked and volunteered as teacher and tutor of French as Second Language. Those experiences were at the Language Centre of the Federal University of Paraná, at Canadian Parents for French, and other private language schools. I believe that by reading the world people can also change it and even change themselves. It motivates me to continue helping and supporting children, through FSL, to act in the direction of their accomplishment. My spare time is with people, pets, movies or books, in parks or mountains, to philosophize or just chat, with music and a good vegan gluten-free food.”
Why Us
Unlike other Learning Centres, Kanata Learning Centre provides innovative and evidence-based programming that is tailored and unique, while being overseen by our psychologist, Dr Rebecca Moore, C.Psych. We understand that children with learning needs often experience challenges with confidence and self-esteem. We consider the whole child in our implementation of their individualized program and provide a safe and nurturing environment in which they can thrive.
We offer services after school, during school hours and on weekends, as a support to the school-provided programming. We understand that schools are experiencing increasing budgetary restraints and cutbacks. As much as they would like to provide the attention needed to each child, they simply do not have the resources to do so.
In addition to helping your child, we can also help you understand your child’s IEP, what it is supposed to ensure and steps you can take to support the implementation of the IEP at school.
Programs
Tutoring/Support Programs
Our education programs are tailored to your child’s needs. We know that there are many reasons that you have come to us looking for help. Perhaps your child is struggling, but you are not sure why. Maybe your child’s teacher has told you that they need extra help in reading or math. Perhaps your child is a high school student refusing to attend school. Anxiety, mental health challenges, giftedness, Learning Disabilities, and ADHD are only some of the reasons that children may need extra support and attention. We will collaborate with you, review any IEP and work with your child’s teacher to develop a program designed to help your child become an engaged, active learner while building their confidence.
LSWorks
ReadLS is a home or centre-based multi-sensory training program which combines sound with visual to stimulate the vestibular and auditory and visual systems.
Read LS has bee designed for students 5 years up to adulthood who suffer from:
- Weak Reading Skills
- Dyslexia
- Low self-esteem when reading
- Good Reading Skills but cannot recall what was read
- Auditory processing difficulty
- Eye movement control difficulty
- ESL Students
ReadLS is much more user-friendly than any other cognitive training reading programs and integrates some of the most advanced technology to help struggling readers.
The games LSWorks develops incorporate everything we know about learning, and where things can go wrong. Our exclusive game-based platform keeps students engaged and motivated for the duration of the program.
By grade 3, children are usually expected to be reading to learn, rather than learning to read, but reading remains difficult for up to 30% of students. ReadLS from LSWorks is designed for anyone over 5 years of age who meets any of the following criteria:
• Their reading age appears to have reached a plateau and falls further and further behind with each passing year.
• They have been diagnosed with dyslexia or a learning disorder.
• They have trouble picking up the skill due to ADHD or ASD.
• They have difficulty carrying out oral instructions.
• They have poor reading, spelling or writing skills.
• They have good reading skills but can’t recall what they’ve read.
• Their reading skills are normal but they feel discomfort or suffer from fatigue when reading.
• They have poor working memory.
• They feel uncomfortable looking at black letters on white paper, or white letters on a blackboard.
• They have eye movement control problems.
• Leverages the power of engagement
With exciting gameplays, points system and fun graphics.
• Boosts phonemic awareness
By separating words into individual sounds and gradually introducing blends.
• Uses a targeted multi-sensory approach
To create connections between the auditory and visual pathways required for fluent reading.
• Process oriented
Gameplays specifically designed to strengthen coding and decoding skills.
• Improves eye movement control
With game plays designed to strengthen eye tracking in all directions.
• Helps improve executive functioning skills
Through multiple simultaneous demands, performance feedback and problem solving
Kanata Learning Centre FAQs
You will meet for an initial intake session to provide background information and to enable us to assess your child’s needs. This process involves an interview as well as the completion of several forms that provide us with a clear picture of your child’s developmental and school history. Together we determine your priorities for your child’s learning and we develop a program to meet your goals. Your child may then undergo an academic assessment to clarify their achievement level and learning needs. Depending on the particular needs of your child, they may participate in specialized targeted skills training (i.e., reading program), or they may begin with regular weekly sessions to support their ongoing school success. You are provided with regular feedback regarding your child’s progress.
Costs vary depending on the specific services provided. Your child may benefit from an initial assessment by our Learning Centre staff. This assessment provides us with an up to date snapshot of your child’s current academic achievement level, as well as insight into their learning styles. Is your child a visual learner or an auditory learner? Perhaps they are a combination of both. Are they part to whole, or whole to part? This is all very important information…for us, for teachers, and for you as parents. That being said, this assessment is optional and not required. Note: If your child has a recent psycho-educational evaluation from any psychologist, this initial assessment will not be necessary.
There are basically two avenues whereby your child might come to attend the Kanata Learning Centre. You may have had your child assessed by Dr Moore and associates, or you may have found us on your own, and are looking for academic and school support services for your child. Regardless of how you found us, we are glad that you did! Give is a call at 613-435-2729, e-mail us at office@kanatalearningcentre.com or fill out the webform below!
Our instructors are carefully chosen to ensure that they are able to understand the needs of each and every child. Prescriptive teachers need not apply. Our instructors need to have instinct, insight, empathy and the knowledge and experience needed to reach your child wherever they are at this moment in their development.
Once your child is registered and has a program with us, it will look like this: Each child has an individualized program. Depending on your child’s needs, it will include, language, math, fine motor skills and ‘fun’ stuff, which is learning material designed as breaks. This could be blocks, flashcards, body breaks, a board game, or a 10-minute talk on any topic (very popular with our adolescent set). The time with us will pass quickly, and your child will not even realize the important academic and social building blocks being achieved.
Links
Address
Kanata Learning Centre
300 Terry Fox Drive, Suite #700
Kanata, ON, K2K 0E3
Tel: 613-435-2729
Fax: 613-591-8106
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