Many Years Ago As a high school student in the years 1957-58 I volunteered with my piano teacher Frannie Korson at what was named the Home for Incurable Children. Together with her other piano students we helped in the production of musicals with a group of children at the Home who became known as The…
Holland Bloorview has been an integral part of my life since before I was born. My mum heard about Spiral Garden in the late 80’s and loved the philosophy of being integrated, outdoors, and run by Artists. Friends of hers worked there in its early years, and in the 90s my eldest brother attended Spiral…
Spiral Gardens is magical and safe space! My daughter, Aria, is generally anxious around other kids and social settings, and cling tightly to me, but not at Spiral Gardens. Each morning we arrived for camp early, Aria would independently venture out ahead of me, waiting confidently right outside the gates. All the staff await us warmly…
Everyday there’s beautiful story at pickup time. One day is seeing a volunteer let your kid having a nap on her lap under the shade of tree in the garden and another day hear your kid’s laugh from distance as everyone singing a made-up song about train for her just because of her passion and…
Last Summer I had the amazing opportunity to support my son at Spiral Garden. My son loved everything he did, but by far his favourite thing was wood working! Lynn spent a significant amount of time supporting Gabriele with hammers, drills and saws to make all sorts of creations with wood. His best was the…
Spiral Garden “I was unsure how much my child was able to interact with the other kids, until week 2 when so many of them came up and addressed him by name. He was so happy to meet new friends and have adventures. Thanks for providing such an opportunity.”
Spiral Garden “This is a unique program unlike anything in the UK where we live. I love watching my son grow in confidence. He hates painting in school but this was the first positive he mentioned when we spoke about what he liked. That’s a break through. The team managed to tap into areas that…
Spiral Garden “I have seen my son join in more and interact more than I ever have. Seeing him play a drum at the end of drum circle brought tears to my eyes. Your staff is warm and giving without being smothering. I consider myself lucky to have found this place.”
My husband and I met at Holland Bloorview and shared many lunch times with friends in the Spiral Garden. In May of 2024, we had wedding photos taken around the hospital, including the Spiral Garden.
My favorite memory was when I was volunteering at the TR BIRT&SODR units. There’s one client in particular who’s shaped my experience. On my first day, she was very shy and reserved and would rarely communicate with me. Through the days, we played different games and activities until we would find something that she liked….
