Welcome to the SmartStart Hub at ErinoakKids!

Do you have concerns about your child's development? The SmartStart Hub at ErinoakKids can support you in accessing the services and supports available in Peel, Halton and Dufferin regions. With one call, families are connected to relevant services as early as possible.  

ErinoakKids is committed to providing child, youth and family-centred care. Through the SmartStart Hub a focus on equity and inclusion will offer responsive services to underserved populations.  

The SmartStart Hub at ErinoakKids is for those not sure what their child’s needs may be, or what services are available, but it is not the only way to access children’s services. Families do not have to go through the Hub to access ErinoakKids/community programs. 

Please visit About Us for more information about what is available to families at ErinoakKids!

*When you submit the form above, you are requesting contact from the SmartStart Hub to discuss your questions about resources for your child. 

Once you submit this form, our Service Navigators will telephone the contact listed on the form between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00p.m., within two business days. 

Thank you for contacting us. 

Frequently Asked Questions: 

Do I need a referral to access the SmartStart Hub?

No. The SmartStart Hub at ErinoakKids is accessible by dialing our general intake number: 905-855-2690, ext. 9. Toll Free: 1-877-374-6625. 

I am in Kitchener/Ottawa outside of Peel/Halton/Dufferin, where do I go?

Information on your local SmartStart Hub can be found by visiting your closest Children’s Treatment Centre. 

Can I call the SmartStart Hub if I already have services through ErinoakKids but I have additional needs? 

Yes you can. Please connect with the SmartStart Hub at ErinoakKids for more information and for assistance in finding the services that will be best for your family and your child. 

How do I access information in my language? 

When you connect with the SmartStart Hub at ErinoakKids you will be asked a series of questions to help determine the most appropriate resources for you and your family. The representatives will have information and advice on accessing information in your language. 

What kind of services will the SmartStart Hub be able to connect me with?

The SmartStart Hub at ErinoakKids is an entry point to services for families with any concerns about their child’s development and day to day functioning related to development. Your questions will be explored and you will be supported to identify your child’s strengths and functional needs, then we will ensure seamless and coordinated connections to appropriate further assessments and services, including potential family based supports. 

What if I have an urgent situation requiring emergency help? 

In the event of an urgent situation requiring emergency please access emergency services in your community, either through your primary care provider or by calling 911. For situations that may have the potential to become urgent, the SmartStart Hub at ErinoakKids could potentially connect you to supports and services, if appropriate.  

Can I access Respite care through the SmartStart Hub? 

To learn more about Respite Care Services at ErinoakKids, please visit our Respite Care page: ErinoakKids - Respite Services. The SmartStart Hub at ErinoakKids is a first point of entry for families with concerns about development or questions about available services, the team in place will connect you to relevant services as early as possible

Will I need to use my OAP funds to access SmartStart Hub services? 

There is no fee to connect with the SmartStart Hub at ErinoakKids. The initial, exploratory conversation will help determine appropriate and relevant services for your individual situation, which may include fee for service supports. 

Additional Resources

The F-words for child development. To access the F-Words Foundations Course:

• Visit www.canchild-fwords.ca.
• Click on Login/Sign Up.
• Click on Create a New Account.
• Enter your information. A confirmation email will be sent to you.
• Click on the link in your email. This will take you to the Enrollment page. 
• Click on Enroll Now.
• You should now be able to access the F-words Foundations Course.

The F-words Foundation Course is available in French and English.