The University of Maryland Dept. of Family Sciences and The Center for Adoption Support and Education are working together to facilitate a national study of transracial adoptive families and need YOUR help. The specific focus of this study is to examine the impact of family characteristics on the overall adjustment, self-esteem and racial identity of minority youth adopted by Caucasian parents.  If you are a white adoptive parent of at least one minority child who was placed or adopted by the age of 4, and who is now between the ages of 14-18, please call 301.405.4011 or email today.

 

From Dr. LaJoy's terrifying accounts of how her and her siblings were abandoned, to the endearing anecdotes about her foster mother, A Gifted Child in Foster Care shows the reader what it's like to grapple with paramount life issues.  This book offers words of encouragement and empowerment for both youth and parents. Youth discover that they can succeed and impact the lives of others even in the face of adversity, while parents learn specific steps to help their youth recognize and utilize their gift(s).

Children's Home Society (CHS) with the help of Metro Theater Company, is offering a special six-week drama workshop free for foster/adopted children ages 11-15.  Studies support theater activity as a powerful intervention strategy to heal past trauma and to foster non-violent behavior in youth.  Led by CHS staff and Metro’s Teaching Artists, participants in this unique drama experience will explore activities that focus on collaboration, inclusion and building non-verbal communication skills.  Thanks to the support of the Boeing Foundation, we are able offer this opportunity at no cost to families. 

 

Group explains how understanding and love-based techniques are applied in everyday situations to help families find stability and healing.  To find out the location or to register, contact Debbie Clark at 314.732.6557.

Raising grandchildren and children of relatives present unique emotional, physical, financial and legal issues for caregivers.  This workshop will cover discipline, planning for the future, connecting with community programs, internet safety, and feelings about new roles and relating to your adult child or relative.  To register, call Rachel or Sarah at 314.968.2350.

 

Parenting a child with a history of sexual abuse can be frightening - from responding to the child's acting out behavior to dealing with your own emotions.  Come share with other parents and participate in discussions of the best ways to minimize the trauma and help your child heal.  To register, call 314.968.2350 x223.

 

St. Charles County Chapter of Missouri Foster/Adopt Association is proud to present Child Psychiatrist, Dr. James Edwards.  If you are licensed by another agency, please contact your licensing worker for approval.  To register, please contact Diane Bueneman at 636.928.2198.

 

Identify and understand the social, communication, sensory and behavioral characteristics of Asperger syndrome and gain an awareness of effective, practical strategies that will support your child in being more successful at home and school.  There is no cost for training.  To register, call 314.989.7807 (TTY: 314.989.8552) or register on-line at www.solutionwhere.com/ssd.

 

This 6-week training is designed to help parents reduce impulsive and aggressive behavior.  Help your kids learn to get along by understanding others' points of view.  Your kids can learn to open up, acknowledge feelings and learn that anger is OK.  To register, call 314.989.7807 (TTY: 314.989.8552) or register on-line at www.solutionwhere.com/ssd.  

 

This orientation is designed to provide an overview of special education services and how they are provided through SSD.  All participants will receive a Parent Handbook and an IEP Guide for Parents. There is no cost for training.  To register, call 314.989.7807 (TTY: 314.989.8552) or register on-line at www.solutionwhere.com/ssd.