Kids in Control
For kids aged 8-12 who have a loved one with a mental illness or substance use disorder.
What to expect
The Kids in Control program is for children aged 8-12 years old and is currently offered as an eight-week online group. Each session is approximately 1.5 hours long and happens once per week for eight weeks. To adapt to virtual programming, we now have smaller group sizes. Parents and caregivers are also welcome to join at the start of the first session if it helps their child feel more at ease, though this is entirely optional.
Prior to the first session, each participant will receive a “Kids in Control Care Box” with supplies for in-session crafts, games, and some surprises too!
Program goals
- Connect with others in similar situations.
- Gain a better understanding of mental illness and their loved ones.
- Bust stigma and dispel misinformation.
- Provide ways to deal with anxiety and stress.
- Develop healthy coping strategies and resilience.
- Encourage self-care and boundary-setting
Sign up
Refer a child, youth, or teen to BCSS Youth support groups today. Youth 14+ can self-refer.
Frequently asked questions
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We encourage families to be involved in the initial information, and we are here to answer any questions you may have. Parents are asked to participate for the first few minutes of our online groups to help their children feel comfortable.
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Find a suitable time to speak privately to your child before the first group. Kids often find it more comfortable to ‘talk while doing.’
Make sure the conversation happens when you are both ready and calm.
The information your kids have may not always match your experience. Listen to your child and explain your experience to them. -
Most definitely; the vast majority of our graduates report a better understanding of mental health and mental illness after attending our programs.
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Participants of BCSS Youth programs are children and youth who have a loved one with a mental illness or substance use disorder. Participants must be between 8-18 years old and live in BC. We do not offer programs specifically for youth and children experiencing mental illness themselves.
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Children and youth can be referred to the program from a variety of sources, including healthcare professionals, community agencies, social workers, teachers, counsellors, and family members/caregivers. Youth 14+ may self-refer. You can find a printable version of our referral form HERE.
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