It's 3:47 PM on a Tuesday. You're racing from an OT session in Burnaby to an SLP appointment across town, watching the minutes tick away in Lougheed traffic while managing the chaos of the traditional "clinic hop." You’re searching for a better way, and that is exactly why we developed the Burnaby therapy integrated learning program to put an end to the scheduling fatigue.
Here is the truth: Your child doesn't need more appointments. They need an environment designed for how they learn.
The Coordination Crisis Stealing Your Child's Progress
Most families think they have a scheduling problem. In reality, they have a coordination problem. When three separate therapists work in silos, they accidentally work against each other. One might focus on sitting still while another needs movement; the result is a child who feels overwhelmed and a parent who feels burnt out.
Traditional vs. Burnaby Therapy Integrated Learning Program (Kidstart): Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | Traditional Fragmented Therapy | Kidstart TILP (Integrated) |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly Support | 2–3 hours total | 10.5 hours (3.5 hrs x 3 days) |
| Coordination | Parent manages 3+ providers | One unified clinical team |
| Environment | Clinical room / One-on-one | Natural, embedded learning day |
| Monthly Cost | $2,040 - $2,200 (Estimated) | $1,800 |
📊 The Research: Studies show that early intervention is most effective when skills are practiced in "natural contexts." Instead of a child learning to speak in a quiet room with a flashcard, TILP teaches them to speak while asking a friend for a toy—the way life actually happens.
How the Burnaby Therapy Integrated Learning Program Actually Works: The Emma Case Study
Meet 4-year-old Emma. She needs help with fine motor skills (OT), articulation (SLP), and regulation (Behaviour). In a traditional model, her week is split into three separate clinics. In TILP, her 10.5 hours are coordinated like this:
- Morning Routine: Emma practices her speech goals (SLP) while hanging up her coat and using a visual schedule for regulation (Behaviour).
- Art Activity: She works on pincer grasp and scissor skills (OT) while labeling colors and requesting supplies (SLP).
- Group Play: The team supports her in taking turns and managing frustration (Behaviour) in a real-world social setting.
Research Note: According to a systematic review on early intervention efficacy, multi-disciplinary therapies are most effective when they are family-centered and integrated into the child’s environment rather than delivered in isolation.
Your Integrated Team: The "Builders" of Progress
At Kidstart, we replace "specialists in silos" with a unified team. We use a permission-based trust funnel approach—we don't push intensity; we provide relief and safety.
OT / Coordinator
The "Architect." They set the blueprint for the program and ensure sensory goals are met throughout the day.
SLP
The "Communications Specialist." They wire the environment for language, ensuring every transition is a chance to speak.
Behaviour Consultant
The "Safety Inspector." They ensure the environment is predictable and that the child feels regulated and secure.
"The team is professional... my daughter can now receive occupational, behavior and speech therapy with very capable professionals all in one place which makes it much easier for busy parents like us!" — Catherine L.
Common Questions from Metro Vancouver Parents
Q: Is TILP an "intensive" program?
A: We prefer the word supported. While it offers 10.5 hours of weekly intervention, the pace is designed to feel like a predictable, calm learning day, not a high-pressure clinic.
Q: Where is the program located?
A: Our primary site is at 220-3355 North Rd, Burnaby, conveniently located for families in New West, Coquitlam, and Brentwood.
Q: Can I use my Autism Funding?
A: Absolutely. TILP is designed to be fully compatible with MCFD funding and extended health benefits. We provide the calm, supportive help you need with the logistics.
Stop the Scheduling Chaos
Your child doesn’t need more appointments. They need an environment designed for how they learn.
Book a Free ConsultationNo pressure. No intensity. Just a conversation about relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does the Burnaby therapy integrated learning program handle school transitions?
Our team at KidStart Pediatric Therapy works closely with families to ensure the skills learned in TILP carry over into the classroom setting. We focus on building the foundational independence and social communication required for a successful transition to the Burnaby school system.
2. Can I combine the Therapy Integrated Learning Program with my existing private insurance?
Yes, many families use a combination of Autism Funding and private extended health benefits to cover the cost of integrated therapy. We provide detailed invoicing that breaks down the specific disciplines involved to help you maximize your coverage.
3. What is the typical age range for children in the KidStart TILP?
The program is primarily designed for preschool and early school-aged children who benefit most from early intervention in a group setting. This allows us to create peer-matched groups where children can practice social-emotional skills in a safe, supported environment.
4. How does KidStart Pediatric Therapy ensure my child doesn't get overwhelmed?
Unlike high-intensity clinical sessions, our Burnaby therapy integrated learning program is paced to match a child's natural energy levels throughout the day. We prioritize emotional regulation and "brain breaks" to ensure that learning remains a positive, stress-free experience.
5. Is there a waitlist for the Therapy Integrated Learning Program in Burnaby?
Due to our low staff-to-child ratios, spots in the TILP often fill quickly; however, we maintain an active waitlist and offer intake assessments year-round. Contacting us early allows us to help you plan your funding and start-date logistics well in advance.
People Also Ask
1. What is the difference between ABA and an integrated therapy program?
While ABA focuses on specific behavioral modifications, an integrated program blends speech, motor, and behavioral goals into one cohesive day. This approach ensures that a child isn't just learning a skill in isolation, but is able to use it naturally across different activities.
2. How long do children typically stay in a TILP program?
Most families find the greatest success by staying enrolled for at least 6 to 12 months to allow for deep skill acquisition and routine mastery. Our clinicians provide regular progress reports to help you decide when your child is ready for their next environment.
3. Does integrated therapy help with sensory processing issues?
Yes, because our Occupational Therapists are part of the daily team, sensory strategies are embedded into every hour of the program. This means your child receives constant, subtle support for their sensory needs rather than waiting for a once-a-week clinic visit.
4. Is parental involvement required during the TILP sessions?
While the children attend the sessions with our clinical team, we provide regular parent coaching and feedback to ensure consistency at home. This partnership ensures that the "relief" you feel at the clinic extends to your daily life outside of program hours.
5. How do I know if my child is a good fit for integrated learning?
If your child is currently seeing multiple specialists or struggles with the transition between different therapy clinics, they are likely a great candidate. We recommend a discovery call to discuss your child's specific profile and how our Burnaby team can support them.
