Built on a legacy of more than 100 years of helping children and families, the Child Ddevelopment Institute (CDI) delivers uniquely effective outcomes-based children’s mental health, family violence, early learning and child care services.

CDI’s mission is to support children, youth and their families to transform their lives through innovative and impactful early learning and mental health services. Our vision is that children, youth and their families thrive and lead healthy lives. We offer evidence-based programs across three service streams (Child and Youth Mental Health Services, Gender-Based Violence Services, and Early Years and Child Care) to children and youth ages 0 to 18 and their families each year in Toronto, the Greater Toronto Region and beyond.

To meet the rising demand for children’s mental health care, our strategic plan outlines our goal to serve 50,000 children and youth over the next 5 years, providing evidence-informed, transformative programs and services. Our programs are designed to provide comprehensive care that addresses the unique needs of each family, offering evidence-based clinical services, counseling, and targeted prevention strategies. By equipping caregivers with effective strategies for emotional regulation, self-control, and problem-solving, we help create a supportive environment where children can thrive. This holistic approach ensures that families are not just passive recipients of care but active participants in their child's journey towards a brighter future.

Twenty percent of children in Ontario experience mental health challenges, and 5 out of 6 will not receive the treatment they need; together we can provide the services and support children and youth need for a better tomorrow.