Behind every family navigating the autism spectrum is a story shaped by perseverance, patience, and unwavering love. One mother of two from our community, who has spent years supporting her children through developmental and sensory challenges, shared her experience. “I just would like to encourage families to try the glia, not to be scared. It’s not a drug. It’s a natural plasmalogen and just do a little bit of research and not to be fearful. I can’t speak to other people’s experiences, but I just know that I think there’s been enough benefits that it’s encouraging us to continue on. I’m excited for the future.”

What to Expect at Different Ages

When people think of counselling, they often picture adults sitting and talking through their feelings. But counselling for children looks quite different, and for good reasons. Children express and make sense of their emotions in ways that fit their biological and developmental stage, and their capacity to describe what they’re feeling expands as they grow.
At Moose Jaw Family Services, our counsellors tailor their approach to meeting children at their developmental level. The goal isn’t just to talk – it’s to help children feel safe, understood, and in control of their own healing.
How Age Affects Counselling
A child’s age and stage of development shape how they participate in counselling.
• Young children (around ages 4–7) often don’t yet have the language or self-awareness to describe their feelings or experiences through words. That’s why they do best with counsellors who have specialized training in working with this age group. These therapists understand child development and use approaches like Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and storytelling—powerful tools that allow children to express themselves in ways that feel natural and safe. Through play, children show how they see the world and how they feel. A trained counsellor can gently help them make sense of those feelings and develop healthy ways to cope.
• Middle childhood (ages 8–11) is when children start to better understand emotions, cause and effect, and relationships. Counsellors might combine play and creative activities with more structured conversations. Kids this age can start learning concrete coping skills — such as naming their emotions, using breathing techniques, or practicing problem-solving.
• Teens and young adults (12 and up) are often ready for more traditional “talk therapy.” They’re developing a stronger sense of identity and independence, and counselling gives them space to process complex emotions, relationships, and choices in a safe and confidential environment.
The Importance of Consent and Control
For counselling to be effective, children need to feel that they are part of the decision — not that something is being done to them. Even younger children can be invited into the process by explaining what counselling is in simple terms, asking for their permission to participate, and allowing them to make choices during sessions.
When children feel they have control, such as choosing how to share, when to take breaks, or what to talk about, they are more open, engaged, and likely to benefit. This sense of control helps build trust, especially for children who have experienced situations where they felt powerless.
Helping Children Feel Safe and Understood
Every child is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to counselling. What matters most is creating a space where a child feels heard, respected, and safe to be themselves. The counsellor’s role is to guide, support, and help the child find their own way forward – at their own pace.
When children are given the chance to participate in a way that matches their age, understanding, and comfort level, counselling can become a powerful experience that strengthens resilience, confidence, and emotional well-being.

Setting goals is exciting, but many people miss a few simple steps that make success more likely. Whether you want to improve eating habits, lose weight, or build fitness, clarity matters. At Fit 4 Life, we encourage starting by writing your goals down on paper so they feel real and actionable. Next, choose a specific deadline and mark it on your calendar to stay accountable. Regularly review your goals to ensure they remain realistic and aligned with your life. Most importantly, give yourself grace as progress is not always perfect. Call 306 639 5239 to book a free trial and get started today!

Get ready for an unforgettable night of music and community spirit on Saturday, March 21st, all in support of our local hospital and healthcare heroes. Proudly presented by Cypress Paving and hosted by the entertaining Leroy and Leroy, Healthcare Rocks 4 brings high energy entertainment with purpose. Taking the stage is U2Desire, the number one U2 International Tribute, delivering the authentic sound, look, and passion of U2’s legendary stadium shows. The evening begins at 7:00 p.m. with a reception, U2 inspired appetizers, themed silent auction, exclusive merchandise, and photo opportunities. Tickets are $50 plus fees and are available online at moosejawculture.ca

Chakra balancing is a gentle yet powerful wellness practice that supports physical health, emotional clarity, and spiritual awareness. When the seven main chakras are balanced, energy flows more freely through the body, helping reduce stress, improve focus, and restore a sense of inner harmony. Regular chakra work can enhance self awareness, support emotional resilience, and encourage personal growth. Simple practices like guided meditation, breathwork, and energy sessions can be easily woven into daily life. Join our April workshop to explore your chakras, deepen your understanding of energy balance, and begin a meaningful journey toward holistic well being.

Dr. Goodenowe’s Engage Café is a thoughtfully designed space where quality food, specialty coffee, and community connection come together. Offering freshly prepared lunches, sandwiches, and pizza alongside carefully crafted coffee, the café provides a welcoming environment for conversation, learning, and engagement. Guided by the belief that shared spaces strengthen communities, Engage Café serves as a gathering place for individuals seeking connection, thoughtful dialogue, and meaningful experiences. Whether stopping in for a meal, meeting with others, or participating in local programs, guests are invited to engage, connect, and feel part of a vibrant community.