Newcomer Youth
Helping children and teens adjust, connect, and thrive in their new community.
Starting over in a new country isn’t easy and newcomer children and teens often face unique challenges.
Learning a new language, adjusting to a different school system, making friends, and understanding a new culture can feel overwhelming for young newcomers, and for their families.
At JIAS, we offer programs designed to help newcomer youth build confidence, develop skills, and feel a sense of belonging in their new community.
Learn more about our programs below.
Teens Get to Know (TG2K)
A welcoming space for high school students to connect with peers, learn about the Canadian school system, have fun, and feel more at home in their new environment. Each session explores interactive themes such as Canadian culture, sports, and local activities—helping teens build friendships while gaining confidence in navigating high school, post-secondary options, and volunteer opportunities.
Reading Club
Designed for school aged children (grades 1-12), this program helps youth strengthen their English reading and comprehension skills in a supportive, online group setting with other newcomer children and a facilitator.
Ready for School
This program introduces newcomer children to the Ontario school system. Students learn about a typical school day, practice key English vocabulary, and build the confidence they need to succeed and feel comfortable in the classroom while making new friends.
“We are incredibly pleased to share that our children have adjusted remarkably well to school. While the younger ones may not fully grasp everything just yet, their excitement to attend each day and the happiness they express when they return home is a true testament to the preparation and confidence they gained through JIAS’s Ready for School program. We know this wouldn’t have been possible without the invaluable guidance and support they received.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for everything you’ve done for us. Your dedication has made a lasting impact, and we will always hold deep appreciation for the care and thoughtfulness you put into every aspect of Ready for School.”
“You are an amazing team. So caring and so thoughtful, not giving up on anyone even though it can be quite challenging. Thank you so much”
“This was a very impactful program packed with a lot of interesting things that kept the children looking forward to the next day."
“The fact that the children are better able to understand the school program and prepare for unexpected situations has certainly reduced tension. The educational materials proved very helpful, and the TTC support enabled easier mobility.”
Become a JIAS Client
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