San Bernardino Valley College
Foster & Kinship Care Education Spring 2012 Class Schedule
For general information regarding workshops, please call (909) 384-4457. All of the classes listed in this schedule meet the criteria for San Bernardino County’s emotional behavioral training and for Los Angeles County’s “D” rate training. All training must be selected based on the individual needs of the foster/kinship child. Please discuss any additional training issues with your Children and Family Services (CFS) worker or the Specialized Care Facilitator as needed. For Specialized Care Rate information for San Bernardino County, contact Billy Wheeler at (909) 891-3585.
Classes are held at various locations on the San Bernardino Valley College campus and at some off campus sites. PARTICIPANTS MUST REGISTER FOR ALL CLASSES.
Please call (909) 384-4457 or email: rrivera@valleycollege.edu
Our office hours are Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
PLEASE NOTE!!!
Beginning Monday, June 4 through Friday, August 3
Our summer office hours will be
Monday through Thursday, 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Closed Fridays
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CLASSES OFFERED IN SPANISH
SABADO, 19 DE MAYO, 9:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M.
¡ENVEJECIDO DEL SISTEMA!
Facilitator: Jorge Razo - North Hall, Salon 215
¿Y ahora qué? ¿Qué pasa con nuestros jóvenes que envejecen del sistema? ¿Qué desafíos quedan por delante para ellos? ¿Quién es el responsable de la elección de nuestros jóvenes? En esta clase vamos a aprender sobre historias reales y experiencias que se enfrentan nuestros jóvenes. Muchos jóvenes siguen siendo co-dependientes de la medicación psicotrópica. Aprenda cómo obtener acceso a los recursos necesarios para nuestros jóvenes.
MIERCOLES, 23 DE MAYO, 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.,
COMO PREVENIR Y MANEJAR LAS QUEJAS
Facilitator: Elisa Arteaga – North Hall, Salon 251
Los padres de crianza están expuestos a enfrentar quejas sobre sus hogares. En esta clase hablaremos sobre diferentes técnicas para prevenir y manejar las quejas. También hablaremos sobre el proceso de investigación.
SABADO, 2 DE JUNIO, 9:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M.
PANDILLAS: QUE IMPORTANCIA SON PARA NUESTROS HIJOS
Facilitator: Jorge Razo - North Hall, Room 215
Las pandillas son una de las influencias más violentas que afectan nuestras escuelas y niños hoy. ¿Por qué las pandillas juntan a nuestros niños? ¿Que les ofrecen a nuestros niños las pandillas? Como puedo yo averiguar si mi niño tiene que ver con una pandilla. Esta clase proporciona instrumentos a participantes en la ayuda de su niño a alejarse de pandillas. Ayudará a participantes a buscar la ayuda apropiada.
LUNES, 4 DE JUNIO, 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
MEJORAMIENTO SOBRE EL MANEJO DE NUESTRAS FINANZAS
Facilitator: Elisa Artega – North Hall, Salon 152
En esta clase tendremos la oportunidad de aprender algunas técnicas de como podemos mejorar el manejo de nuestras finanzas, como planear mejor nuestro futuro financiero, como eliminar gastos innecesarios y como crear un plan de gastos y podrán transmitir esta información a los jóvenes bajo su cuidado.
MIERCOLES, 6 DE JUNIO, 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
REVISION AL REGLAMENTO DE HOGARES DE CRIANZA
Facilitator: Elisa Arteaga – North Hall, Salon 152
En esta clase hablaremos sobre los cambios al reglamento de los hogares de crianza (Titulo 22), como tener y mantener sus hogares de acuerdo al reglamento de hogares de crianza y como tener acceso al reglamento usando el Internet.
SABADO, 2 DE JUNIO, 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
PANDILLAS: QUE IMPORTANCIA SON PARA NUESTROS HIJOS
Facilitator: Jorge Razo - North Hall, Salon 151
Las pandillas son una de las influencias más violentas que afectan nuestras escuelas y niños hoy. ¿Por qué las pandillas juntan a nuestros niños? ¿Que les ofrecen a nuestros niños las pandillas? Como puedo yo averiguar si mi niño tiene que ver con una pandilla. Esta clase proporciona instrumentos a participantes en la ayuda de su niño a alejarse de pandillas. Ayudará a participantes a buscar la ayuda apropiada.
LUNES, 11 DE JUNIO, 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
¿F2F Y TDM: QUE SIGNIFICAN Y COMO INVOLUCRAN A LOS PADRES DE CRIANZA?
Facilitator: Elisa Arteaga – North Hall, Salon 152
En esta clase hablaremos sobre las filosofías de familia a familia y decisiones tomadas en equipo (TDM), como estas filosofías envuelven a los padres de crianza y como ellos pueden participar en estas juntas efectivamente.
MIERCOLES, 13 DE JUNIO, 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
EL FUNCIONAMIENTO COMO UN EQUIPO
Facilitator: Elisa Arteaga – North Hall, Salon 152
Durante esta sesión los padres de crianza aprenderán quienes son los diferentes miembros del equipo de trabajo del sistema de Protección al Menor; los diferentes papeles y tareas de los miembros del equipo y como comunicarse y trabajar con estos miembros como parte del equipo profesional de trabajo del sistema de protección al menor.
JUEVES, 14 DE JUNIO, 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
EXTENSION AL CUIDADO DE CRIANZA TEMPORAL (AB12)
Facilitator: Elisa Arteaga – North Hall, Salon 152
Durante esta clase hablaremos sobre los nuevos cambios al sistema de cuidado de crianza, la extensión del cuidado de crianza (AB12). Los padres de crianza aprenderán quien es elegible, los requisitos que los jóvenes necesitan para participar, los diferentes tipos de casa, lo que se espera de los padres de crianza, y las normas de la extensión de cuidado de crianza con referencia a los hogares de crianza.
JUEVES, 18 DE JUNIO, 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
DISCIPLINA
Facilitator: Elisa Arteaga – North Hall, Salon 152
El disciplinar a los niños es un reto que los padres enfrentan, especialmente cuando los niños están en nuestro cuidado y hay reglas que seguir. En esta clase hablaremos de las diferentes técnicas de disciplina que los padres de crianza pueden usar con niños de todas edades.
MIERCOLES, 20 DE JUNIO, 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
EXTENSIÓN AL CUIDADO DE CRIANZA TEMPORAL (AB12)
Facilitator: Elisa Arteaga – North Hall, Salon 152
Durante esta clase hablaremos sobre los nuevos cambios al sistema de cuidado de crianza, la extensión del cuidado de crianza (AB12). Los padres de crianza aprenderán quien es elegible, los requisitos que los jóvenes necesitan para participar, los diferentes tipos de casa, lo que se espera de los padres de crianza, y las normas de la extensión de cuidado de crianza con referencia a los hogares de crianza.
LUNES, 25 DE JUNIO, 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
HABITOS DE COMPORTAMIENTO POSITIVE: ADOLESCENTES
Facilitator: Elisa Arteaga – North Hall, Salon 152
En esta sesión hablaremos sobre los valores, estilo de vida, autenticidad, auto estima, razonamiento, consecuencias que necesitan ser transmitidos a los adolescentes.
MIERCOLES, 27 DE JUNIO, 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
PROGRAMA DE VIDA INDEPENDIENTE
Facilitator: Elisa Arteaga – North Hall, Salon 152
El trabajo mas importante de los padres es ayudar y guiar a sus jóvenes a pasar a una vida adulta productiva. En esta clase daremos un vistazo al Programa de Vida Independiente a los padres de crianza, hablaremos sobre las diferentes actividades para los jóvenes, los recursos disponibles para ellos y los padres de crianza, y como hacer para que los jóvenes participen para facilitar su transición a una vida adulta productiva.
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WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, 9:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.
THE KINSHIP EXPERIENCE: FAMILY CHANGE
Facilitator: Karen Dixon - Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
This class helps the caregiver to explore the impact of kinship care on their family relationships and strategies for dealing with change. This class also looks at the challenges faced by kinship caregivers regarding contact between the children and their parents. Participants will be able to identify the social supports in our lives and describe what professionals and the informal community offers them.
THURSDAY, MAY 10, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
MEETING THE NEEDS OF CHILDREN IN CARE
Facilitator: Gwen Harville-Washington - Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
Foster/adoptive parents know that the children they are parenting have been subjected to abuse, neglect, and family violence. This has a huge impact on the child’s behavior, and we are not always sure what the child needs in order to start the healing process. Participants will have an opportunity to explore these needs and how best to meet the children on a level that creates understanding and healing.
THURSDAY, MAY 10, 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.
CHILDHOOD: NEWBORNS
Facilitator: Dan Crain - Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
Newborn babies in the foster care system can display many symptoms of a condition called Failure to Thrive. This condition is demonstrated when newborns lose weight rather than gain it, fail to cry even when they are hungry and need to be changed, and are listless, unsmiling and fail to respond to parental stimuli. Families of origin that ignored their newborns due to substance abuse and other issues directly create this condition. This class reviews ways these circumstances and hands caregivers the ways and means to raise infants so they can grow out of this condition and become more developmentally healthy and thrive in their parent’s care.
FRIDAY, MAY 11, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
PUTTING A STOP TO LYING, STEALING, AND HOARDING
Facilitator: Vern Bradley – Parent Education Center
These three behaviors keep coming up over and over and over and over and over again in just about every training and kind of training I do. They are behaviors that have a strong metaphorical component to them, and they will continue to occur until you understand the underlying message and begin addressing it. Come to class to learn how to do that.
*Participants explore honestly and fearlessly just why these behaviors are so personally bothersome.
*Participants learn a metaphorical script for having a powerful conversation about these
behaviors.
*Participants learn not to set the child up for all three behaviors.
*Participants learn to stop punishing these behaviors.
*Participants present real life situations for brain storming and problem solving.
SATURDAY, MAY 12, 9:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M.
GANG AFFILIATION: A SENSE OF BELONGING
Facilitator: Karen Cash - Liberal Arts Building, Room 102
Gangs have been around for over fifty years! Why do they still have such appeal to our foster youth? Participants learn how to understand some of the myths about gang affiliations and why so many of our foster youth want to belong. Participants identify common issues regarding foster youth and how their involvement in gangs impacts their lives.
MONDAY, MAY 14, 9:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.
BUILDING HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS
Facilitator: Karen Dixon, Liberal Arts Building, Room 100
What are the keys to building healthy relationships? Who served as a model of a healthy relationship for us? Many children do not have a clear picture of what a healthy relationship is or where to begin. Participants will have an opportunity to explore their personal relationships and identify methods for teaching children the skills necessary to create and maintain healthy relationships.
TUESDAY, MAY 15, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
INCENTIVES AND REWARDS FOR SCHOOL PERFORMANCE: HELP OR HINDER
Facilitator: Vern Bradley, Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
Why do we promise money, gifts, toys, privileges, outings, you name it, to a child as a way to motivate them to do their best in school? What does the child ultimately learn? School becomes equal to a job. I am not sure if I want the future generations to look upon school as a job or as work. How about finding a way for them to enjoy learning? It’s not going to happen by promising them goodies. Besides, at some point, you plain run out of funds!
*Participants learn the difference between academic achievement and intelligence.
*Participants learn to assess realistically what an individual child can accomplish academically.
*Participants learn to assess each child’s learning style.
*Participants learn how NOT to use incentives and rewards.
*Participants learn how to instill in a child a joy for learning.
*Participants present real life situations for brain storming and problem solving.
THURSDAY, MAY 17, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
AB 12 - WHAT’S IT ALL ABOUT?
Facilitator: Gwen Harville-Washington - Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
How does AB 12 affect children in care? I’ve been told that the teens in my care can remain in my home after they turn 18 and still receive funding and services. How is that possible? Is everyone eligible? Does it change the level of care I provide? Do the rules change for the young adult in my home? Participants will have an opportunity to explore these questions and receive an overview of the changes created by AB 12.
THURSDAY, MAY 17, 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.
CHILDHOOD: TODDLERS
Facilitator: Dan Crain - Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
This developmental stage, known as the ‘terrible twos’ (and beyond) is a time frame that every human being goes through. In early attempts at crawling and then eventually walking, young children gain some independence and begin to achieve milestones in speaking and brain development. Children who enter the foster care system during this period are more prone to biting, continual bedwetting and bed soiling, temper tantrums and jealousy over other siblings. Working with this age group can be particularly compelling and very challenging for caregivers. In this class parents learn how to address these young beings who are gaining independence.
FRIDAY, MAY 18, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
WHAT KIND OF A STUDENT WERE YOU AND DOES IT MATTER?
Facilitator: Vern Bradley, Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
I know many of you had less than successful experiences in school. So you are sometimes driven to make sure your children and foster children surpass you academically. But why? Your lack of academic success can be a source of compassion, of genuine “I get it.” Ironically your understanding will provide the very motivation you are wanting to give them by your ineffective rants! They are tired of hearing you tell them how important school is and it goes in one ear and out the other!
*Participants learn to accurately assess their personal level of intelligence.
*Participants learn to make peace with and let go of any shame surrounding their own lack of academic success.
*Participants learn to join the child as a partner in their academic endeavors.
*Participants learn to appropriately share their own school experiences.
*Participants present real life situations for brain storming and problem solving.
MONDAY, MAY 21, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
CARING FOR TRAUMATIZED CHILDREN
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver, Liberal Arts Building, Room 100
This workshop will discuss the essential elements of trauma-informed parenting. The participants will be able to describe the impact of specific factors such as abuse, neglect, domestic violence and mental illness on a child’s development.
*Parents will define child trauma and describe how children may respond to traumatic events.
*Define resilience and describe how resource parents can promote resilience in their children.
MONDAY, MAY 21, 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.
UNDERSTANDING TRAUMA’s EFFECTS
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver,m Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
In order to heal from trauma, children need to develop a sense of self, to put their trauma history in perspective, and to recognize that they are worthwhile and valued individuals. Unfortunately, many children who have experienced trauma blame themselves by thinking there is something wrong with them. You can learn how to help your child or children overcome these beliefs by being a safe listener when they share, working with them to build bridges across the disruption in their lives.
*Parents will define child trauma and describe how children may respond to traumatic events.
*Define resilience and describe how resource parents can promote resilience in their children.
TUESDAY, MAY 22, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
HAVING THE LAST WORD! YES!
Facilitator: Vern Bradley, Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
The best way to get the last word is not to have it! That is what I said. It is the same principle as the most powerful power is unused power. Come to class to learn how to have the last word ALL the time in many different paradoxical ways. You present the scenario and together we will brainstorm the way for you to have the last word and then we will practice it.
*Participants explore what it means to them in terms of power to have the last word
*Participants explore their own endeavor in relationships in general to have the last word
*Participants learn paradoxical ways to have the last word all the time.
*Participants present real life scenarios to put the last word paradox into practice.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 23, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
CARING FOR TRAUMATIZED CHILDREN
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver, Liberal Arts Building, Room 100
This workshop will discuss the essential elements of trauma-informed parenting. The participants will be able to describe the impact of specific factors such as abuse, neglect, domestic violence and mental illness on a child’s development.
*Parents will define child trauma and describe how children may respond to traumatic events.
*Define resilience and describe how resource parents can promote resilience in their children.
TUESDAY, MAY 22, 10:00 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.
“IT’S A JUNGLE OUT THERE!” THE DANGERS AND CHALLENGES TEENAGERS FACE (B OR D RATE)
Facilitator: Gwen Harville-Washington
Making a Difference Association, 1001 N. La Cadena Dr., Colton, 92324
Due to the high technological age, today’s media exposes our youth to both criminal and deviant behaviors that present our youth to potentially dangerous social situations. In this class, parents will be introduced to some of the “hot topics” our teens are facing daily, and not talking to us about. Parents will examine social and personal issues regarding teenagers including body mutilation, sexual activity, gender preference, drug experimentation and use, gangs, interpersonal relationships, and much more. Parents will learn how to articulate their concerns in a non-threatening way with their youth to keep communication open on these issues.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 23, 9:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.
WHAT IS BULLYING?
Facilitator: Karen Dixon, Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
Participants will be able to examine the cause and effects of bullying, prevention techniques and programs available, screening for bullying (both victim and perpetrator) treatment options, and legal ethical issues surrounding bullying.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 23, 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.
HOW CAREGIVERS CAN HELP THEIR CHILD OR CHILDREN TO GET
OUT OF THE CYLE OF BEING BULLIED
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver, Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
Being bullied is a very difficult issue to deal with. It is a worldwide problem in our schools, in homes and on our jobs. It is extremely difficult for children to even talk about it that is because most children are embarrassed, or are afraid to even talk about it. In this workshop caregivers will learn the skills necessary to communicate openly, and discuss a solution in ways to help their child address these issues appropriately.
* Caregivers will learn how to inform their children on ways to handle being bullied in a positive
way.
* Caregivers will assist their child or children how to get out of the cycle of being bullied.
THURSDAY, MAY 24, 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.
‘TWEENS‘: EIGHT - TWELVE
Facilitator: Dan Crain - Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
Using cell phones until midnight…wanting to dress like they’re 18 instead of twelve…texting friends at all hours of the day and night…insisting they be allowed to wear make-up…asking to be dropped off a block from school…..staying at the mall ALL DAY…some of the behaviors this age group called ‘tweens’ experience. These ‘children’ are technically still kids, but are rapidly approaching adolescence and wish to be treated that way. This class discusses how caregivers need to hold their ground and encourage this age group to enjoy their childhood and begin to prepare for making mature and responsible decisions in adolescence.
TUESDAY, MAY 29, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
TEACHING KIDS TO STAND UP FOR THEMSELVES - PART I
Facilitator: Vern Bradley - Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
In today’s class, we will use your real-life examples to clarify what are examples of a child being selfish, self-centered, aggressive, hostile and bullying from a genuine attempt to stand up for him or herself. We learn a language to talk about the difference with the child.
TUESDAY, MAY 29, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
CARING FOR TRAUMATIZED CHILDREN
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver, North Hall, Room 218 - NOTE- THIS CLASS IS CANCELLED!!
This workshop will discuss the essential elements of trauma-informed parenting. The participants will be able to describe the impact of specific factors such as abuse, neglect, domestic violence and mental illness on a child’s development.
*Parents will define child trauma and describe how children may respond to traumatic events.
*Define resilience and describe how resource parents can promote resilience in their children.
TUESDAY, MAY 29, 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.
HOW CAREGIVERS CAN HELP THEIR CHILD OR CHILDREN TO GET
OUT OF THE CYLE OF BEING BULLIED
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver, Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
Being bullied is a very difficult issue to deal with. It is a worldwide problem in our schools, in homes and on our jobs. It is extremely difficult for children to even talk about it that is because most children are embarrassed, or are afraid to even talk about it. In this workshop caregivers will learn the skills necessary to communicate openly, and discuss a solution in ways to help their child address these issues appropriately.
* Caregivers will learn how to inform their children on ways to handle being bullied in a positive
way.
* Caregivers will assist their child or children how to get out of the cycle of being bullied.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
IMPACT OF TRAUMA ON CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver, North Hall, Room 218
Safety is important for all children, but it is particularly crucial for children who have experienced trauma. “For these children, the world has often been a harsh and unpredictable place. In this workshop participants will assist in helping the healing process by looking at ways in which they can help children recover and become more resilient, and to feel safe and to believe that there are adults in their lives who can offer safety and security.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 9:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.
GETTING HELP: FINDING AND USING RESOURCES
Facilitator: Karen Dixon - Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
This class explores the caregiver’s need for services and supports the ways to advocate for and access needed services for the family. Participants will be able to identify informal and formal services and describe specific ways to take care of themselves as kinship providers.
THURSDAY, MAY 31, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
IMPACT OF TRAUMA ON CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver, Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave. CLASS CANCELLED!!
Safety is important for all children, but it is particularly crucial for children who have experienced trauma. “For these children, the world has often been a harsh and unpredictable place. In this workshop participants will assist in helping the healing process by looking at ways in which they can help children recover and become more resilient, and to feel safe and to believe that there are adults in their lives who can offer safety and security.
*Describe the key components of a safety message and how to deliver an effective safety
message to children who have experienced trauma.
*List three ways resource parents can help to cope with trauma reminders.
THURSDAY, MAY 31, 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.
ADOLESCENCE: EMANCIPATION
Facilitator: Dan Crain - Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
Gaining a Drivers’ License…ensuring graduation from high school…learning how to balance a checkbook and open a savings account…obtaining a job…technical training or achieving a certificate POST graduation from high school…finding an apartment…just SOME of the skills absolutely essential for achieving some level of ‘success’ in life. And these are not easy to come by and require patience and responsible decision making. In this class, participants determine what is required for young adults to successfully ‘leave the nest.’ New legislation aside (that allows for court intervention for people over eighteen), these skills are essential for life.
FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
TEACHING KIDS TO STAND UP FOR THEMSELVES - PART II
Facilitator: Vern Bradley - Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
In today’s class, we will begin by looking at our personal ability or inability to stand up for ourselves and how that either fosters or hinders our teaching the child how to stand up for him or herself. We will also learn very concrete exercises that are both fun and effective in learning to stand up for oneself on a visceral level, exercises that you can in turn teach to the foster children.
MONDAY, JUNE 4, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT PROPOSITION AB-167
(HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE REQUIREMENTS)
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver, North Hall, Room 218
What is AB-167 about? How does AB-167 affect children in your care? Is there funding for college and higher education after high school? When and how can caregivers help their child benefit from these funds? Does it change the level of care in which the care provider is responsible? Participants will have an opportunity to explore these questions and receive an overview of educational changes created by AB167.
*Participants will learn about educational services and resources available to assist their child in
furthering their education beyond high school.
*Participants will have knowledge and understanding of findings available to assist their child in
educational goals.
LET’S PLAY SERIES PARTS 1 & 2
Did you know one of the most important ingredients in healing from sexual abuse is learning to play and have fun in some other way than sexual play? It seems obvious that, if we are going to be working with and or serving children who have been wounded, we better be comfortable and good at playing. So when was the last time you got down on the floor? I know, some of us won’t be able to get back up, but we need to look at that. We have to find a way to play, to join in, and to have fun with the children in our care. Play and laughter are powerful medicines, powerful healers.
*Participants learn the highlights of Fred Donaldson’s classic work, Playing by Heart.
*Participants learn to use Internet resources for the zillion games and laughter exercises available online to use in your foster home.
*Participants assess the barriers for both themselves and the children to engaging in more play as a healing tool.
*Participants present real-life situations for brainstorming and problem solving.
TUESDAY, JUNE 5, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
LET’S PLAY – PART I
Facilitator: Vern Bradley - Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
Do you know or believe that competition does not exist in the animal kingdom, and it is something that mankind has brought to the earth? Now that could make a good discussion. Much of our play experiences involve competition. There is nothing wrong with competition, but many foster children cannot tolerate it. So today, we will learn ways to engage foster children in play that does not result in the foster child being a loser. And that doesn’t mean they have to win all the time.
TUESDAY, JUNE 5, 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT PROPOSITION AB-167
(HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE REQUIREMENTS)
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver, Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
What is AB-167 about? How does AB-167 affect children in your care? Is there funding for college and higher education after high school? When and how can caregivers help their child benefit from these funds? Does it change the level of care in which the care provider is responsible? Participants will have an opportunity to explore these questions and receive an overview of educational changes created by AB167.
*Participants will learn about educational services and resources available to assist their child in
furthering their education beyond high school.
*Participants will have knowledge and understanding of findings available to assist their child in
educational goals.
TUESDAY, JUNE 5, 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
MEETING THE NEEDS OF HARD TO PLACE MINORS
Facilitator: Bernard Mathis
FAITH TEMPLE CHURCH - 2361 E. Date St., San Bernardino, 92404
This workshop gives an overview of the Level System: descriptions and presenting challenges of hard to place children/youth; the role of placement in meeting the basic needs and review the outcomes of placement. It will also review the “pros” and “cons” of various placement options for children with specific disorders.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 6, 9:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.
FOSTER CARE TO ADOPTION: LIFELONG ISSUES
Facilitator: Karen Dixon, Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
Foster care & adoption are lifelong, intergenerational processes which unite the triad of birth families, adoptees, and adoptive families forever. Adoption, especially of adolescents, can lead to both great joy and tremendous pain. This workshop will identify the underlying issues involved and provide positive interventions when challenging matters arise.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 6, 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.
FATHERS AS ROLE MODELS
Facilitator: Dan Crain, Parent Education Center. 1010 Grant Ave.
As is well documented, children grow best when mothers and fathers share parenting responsibilities and support each other’s efforts. Unfortunately, absent fathers leave children with a large hole in their lives and hearts that is quite difficult for a single mother to fill. In this class the focus is on fathering and the incredibly important role that dads have in raising their kids. From treating mothers with respect and making time for each child separately to assisting with homework and effective disciplining that teaches appropriate and behavior, dads can do it all. Feel free to join the lively discussion on how fatherhood is the most important role that exists
THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
LET’S PLAY - PART II
Facilitator: Vern Bradley - Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
How much time do you spend playing and laughing? Some months ago, I facilitated a laughter workshop that lasted seven hours and we laughed the entire time! If you expend a significant amount of time each week playing and laughing, the atmosphere, the emotional climate in your foster home will change dramatically. Come to class to learn how to make that transition and learn while you are at it, a host of laughter games and exercises.
THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT PROPOSITION AB-167
(HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE REQUIREMENTS)
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver, North Hall, Room 218
What is AB-167 about? How does AB-167 affect children in your care? Is there funding for college and higher education after high school? When and how can caregivers help their child benefit from these funds? Does it change the level of care in which the care provider is responsible? Participants will have an opportunity to explore these questions and receive an overview of educational changes created by AB167.
*Participants will learn about educational services and resources available to assist their child in furthering their education beyond high school.
*Participants will have knowledge and understanding of findings available to assist their child in educational goals.
THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.
DO YOU HAVE A BEDWETTER (OR BEDSOILER)?
Facilitator: Dan Crain - Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
An issue which can cause great embarrassment for children is bedwetting. And if parents hang out soiled sheets, belittle the child or enable the bedwetting, this condition called enuresis can be prolonged. It takes tact and a large dose of understanding to effectively deal with bedwetting. In this class various strategies are covered that assist the child in gently gaining more control. Additionally, bed soiling, although not as common as bedwetting, is discussed. Bed soiling, known as encopresis, is a unique condition wherein the child loses control over their bowel movement which can greatly embarrass the child.
THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.
CARING FOR TRAUMATIZED CHILDREN
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver, North Hall, Room 218
This workshop will discuss the essential elements of trauma-informed parenting. The participants will be able to describe the impact of specific factors such as abuse, neglect, domestic violence and mental illness on a child’s development.
*Parents will define child trauma and describe how children may respond to traumatic events.
*Define resilience and describe how resource parents can promote resilience in their children.
MONDAY, JUNE 11, 9:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.
GRANDPARENTS AS PARENTS AND OTHER RELATIVES RAISING CHILDREN – PART 1
Facilitator: Karen Dixon, North Hall Room 151
Second time parenting can be pretty grim sometimes. Caregivers often face troubled children, uncooperative parents and a bureaucracy that may not understand their new role or support their needs. This workshop will provide the caregiver with hope as well as information that will help them effectively navigate through the various systems that have now become part of their daily lives.
MONDAY, JUNE 11, 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.
IMPACT OF TRAUMA ON CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver, Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
Safety is important for all children, but it is particularly crucial for children who have experienced trauma. “For these children, the world has often been a harsh and unpredictable place. In this workshop participants will assist in helping the healing process by looking at ways in which they can help children recover and become more resilient, and to feel safe and to believe that there are adults in their lives who can offer safety and security.
*Describe the key components of a safety message and how to deliver an effective safety
message to children who have experienced trauma.
*List three ways resource parents can help to cope with trauma reminders
TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
LETTING GO OF FINDING WHAT WORKS
Facilitator: Vern Bradley - Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
We become so rigid and solidified in our criteria of what constitutes “working” that we often cannot recognize when interventions are in fact working or not working at all. Usually the criteria we set up for “what works” is totally unrealistic, even for an adult. Once we let go of the notion of “what works,” we can shift gears and refocus on the relationship between ourselves and the child, and we can eliminate perfection from the criteria. That is the problem as well. We don’t think we demand perfection, but we do.
*Participants explore their personal drive to find “what works.”
*Participants explore their personal criteria for “what works.”
*Participants learn to shift from “what works” to having a dynamite relationship
*Participants present real life situations to apply the material in today’s class
TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
INSURING SUMMER IS PRODUCTIVE FOR KIDS
Facilitator: Dan Crain - North Hall, Room 253
With school sessions soon coming to a close, the annual summer vacation time period comes upon all families. Even those families on year round education find themselves in a perennial bind, especially nowadays with two income families and everyone working at their jobs year round. Summer can definitely be a “bummer” if families don’t plan and organize children’s time away from school with systematic, well designed activities. In addition, what to do for vacation and recreation during the summer enters the picture. This class discusses how to keep children meaningfully engaged so their time away from school passes in a productive manner.
TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
CAREGIVERS TAKING CARE OF THEMSELVES
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver, North Hall, Room 218
One of the most essential elements of informed parenting is taking care of you. In many cases, taking care of ourselves is our last priority. We wonder why we find ourselves exhausted, drained, frustrated, angry, resentful, and unable to take in the good work we do. However, learning how we take care of ourselves is one of the most important skills we can develop as caregivers. By modeling how we take care of ourselves, we can help our children learn how to take good care of themselves as well.
*Define and list the warning signs of secondary traumatic fatigue to secondary traumatic stress.
*Identify specific self-care techniques that can help prevent secondary traumatic stress.
*Describe at least three coping strategies you can use when a child’s trauma is a reminder of
your past trauma.
TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
CHILD OF RAGE: BONDING AND ATTACHMENT DISORDERS
Facilitator: Karen Cash - Liberal Arts Building, Room 102
This class takes a look at how a young girl leads her life after much abuse. We will look at how the abuse has affected her actions and how the lack of bonding and attachment caused her to not have a conscience with regard to her actions.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 13, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
UNDERSTANDING TRAUMA’s EFFECTS
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver, North Hall, Room 218
In order to heal from trauma, children need to develop a sense of self, to put their trauma history in perspective, and to recognize that they are worthwhile and valued individuals. Unfortunately, many children who have experienced trauma blame themselves by thinking there is something wrong with them. You can learn how to help your child or children overcome these beliefs by being a safe listener when they share, working with them to build bridges across the disruption in their lives.
*Parents will define child trauma and describe how children may respond to traumatic events.
*Define resilience and describe how resource parents can promote resilience in their children.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 13, 9:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.
SUPPORTING YOUTH IN TRANSITIONING TO ADULTHOOD/AB12
Facilitator: Karen Dixon, Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
This workshop will review the Extended Foster Care program for our foster youth and what caregivers can do to assist youth transition effectively. Caregivers will develop skills in communicating with non-minor dependents NMD and identify the resources that NMD's need to move towards becoming successful adults.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 13, 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.
AS A CHILD CAREGIVER, WHAT SHOULD YOU KNOW ABOUT SOCIAL NETWORKING?
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver - Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
As with any use of the Internet, social networking has its dangers. This workshop will discuss several questions you as a child care provider should ask regarding social networking. 1. How does social networking affect my privacy? 2. How does social networking affect my reputation? 3. How does social networking affect my reputation? 4. Does social networking affect my friendships?
* Care providers will identify social networking danger.
* Caregivers will identify appropriate skills needed to guide and assist their children when using
social networking.
THURSDAY, JUNE 14, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
MENTAL WELLNESS
Facilitator: Dan Crain - North Hall, Room 253
Depression, paranoia, PTSD, bi-polar, schizophrenia, anti-social, and obsessive-compulsive - you name it and many children in the foster care system have any of these mental health conditions or disorders. Probably brought on by years of abuse and neglect, these kids are into full blown personality issues which are very challenging to deal with by care givers. Most are on some sort of medication and those who are not may need to be. This class reviews these conditions and the meds used to effectively treat them.
THURSDAY, JUNE 14, 1:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.
CAREGIVERS TAKING CARE OF THEMSELVES
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver - North Hall, Room 218
One of the most essential elements of informed parenting is taking care of yourself. In many cases, taking care of ourselves is our last priority. We wonder why we find ourselves exhausted, drained, frustrated, angry, resentful, and unable to take in the good work we do. However, learning how we take care of ourselves is one of the most important skills we can develop as caregivers. By modeling how we take care of ourselves, we can help our children learn how to take good care of themselves as well.
*Define and list the warning signs of secondary traumatic fatigue to secondary traumatic stress.
*Identify specific self-care techniques that can help prevent secondary traumatic stress.
*Describe at least three coping strategies you can use when a child’s trauma is a reminder of your past trauma.
THURSDAY, JUNE 14, 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.
PARENTING STYLES
Facilitator: Dan Crain - Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
Parents wish to be loved or cared for by their children just like they want to raise children they can care for and love. Sometimes their parenting is overly protective, too strict or lax. This creates miscommunication, anger and disappointment. Care givers need to achieve balance in parenting, recognizing children for their own abilities but also setting clear expectations for the child about their behavior. These different styles include Authoritarian, Permissive and Authoritative. Care givers attending this class learn what these parenting styles are and how they can modify their own individual style to better fit various child and parent interactions.
THURSDAY, JUNE 14, 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
NEW CALIFORNIA CARE PROVIDERS REGULATIONS
Facilitator: Bernard Mathis - Liberal Arts Building, Room 102
Quarterly changes appear to occur with licensing regulations. In the course of regulatory activity, some licensees fall out of compliance and are unable or unwilling to come back into compliance. This course explains the Licensing Division enforcement component to assist licensee meet and maintain compliance. This course provides key revisions to the FFH Regulations.
MONDAY, JUNE 18, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
CAREGIVERS TAKING CARE OF THEMSELVES
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver - North Hall, Room 218
One of the most essential elements of informed parenting is taking care of yourself. In many cases, taking care of ourselves is our last priority. We wonder why we find ourselves exhausted, drained, frustrated, angry, resentful, and unable to take in the good work we do. However, learning how we take care of ourselves is one of the most important skills we can develop as caregivers. By modeling how we take care of ourselves, we can help our children learn how to take good care of themselves as well.
*Define and list the warning signs of secondary traumatic fatigue to secondary traumatic stress.
*Identify specific self-care techniques that can help prevent secondary traumatic stress.
*Describe at least three coping strategies you can use when a child’s trauma is a reminder of your past trauma.
MONDAY, JUNE 18, 9:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.
GRANDPARENTS AS PARENTS AND OTHER RELATIVES RAISING CHILDREN – PART 2
Facilitator: Karen Dixon, North Hall Room 151
Caregivers will discuss how to sort through the legal maze, obtain financial resources, and how to develop good record keeping skills. Caregivers will also develop an understanding of the Child Protective and dependency System and be able to recognize some of the signs when special services are indicated and how and to whom to make a formal request for services.
MONDAY, JUNE 18, 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
TEACHING YOUR YOUNG ADULT LIFE’S SKILLS
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver - North Hall, Room 153
Caregivers will learn how to assist their adolescents how to become responsible adults by assisting them social skills, domestic skills, control management and money management.
*Identifying techniques that will promote your young adult to become a responsible adult.
*Caregivers will identify specific skills that will enable their child or children to manage and balance their lives.
TUESDAY, JUNE 19, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
FINDING THEIR STRENGTHS
Facilitator: Vern Bradley, Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
When we get to the point of believing that nothing will work, we experience the child as impossible and have lost complete sight of the child or teen’s strength. Sometimes it takes a lot of letting go of what seems like our pride. It’s almost like a grieving process. But it is in grieving our losses with this child that we can then shift gears and begin zeroing in on the child’s strengths.
The child then can begin to grow maybe for the first time in his or her life rather than getting moved one more time to another foster home.
*Participants will present the most difficult child in their care at this time.
*Participants will list at least ten strengths for this child.
*Participants will explore the reasons they tend to overlook these strengths
*Participants will explore what it is inside of them that draws them to this child’s shortcomings
*Participants will draw up a new plan of action for walking side by side with this child.
TUESDAY, JUNE 19, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
AS A CHILD CAREGIVER, WHAT SHOULD YOU KNOW ABOUT SOCIAL NETWORKING?
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver - North Hall, Room 218
As with any use of the Internet, social networking has its dangers. This workshop will discuss several questions you as a child care provider should ask regarding social networking. 1. How does social networking affect my privacy? 2. How does social networking affect my reputation? 3. How does social networking affect my reputation? 4. Does social networking affect my friendships?
*Care providers will identify social networking danger.
*Caregivers will identify appropriate skills needed to guide and
assist their children when using social networking.
TUESDAY, JUNE 19, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
HELPING PARENTS NAVIGATE THROUGH CHILDREN’S MEDIA
Facilitator: Dan Crain - North Hall, Room 253
What children watch on their flat screen HD televisions, what music they listen to on their MP3 players, what they read in magazines or on their smart phones, what they wear, what food they eat, and with whom they spend their time (which is all advertised on their phones and in those magazines), inappropriate cell phone use (called ‘sexting’) - all this media exposure can prove very challenging for kids and parents alike. This class explores the whole media craze and what parents can do to sort it out and make senses of it for their children. How to make decisions and set limits that make sense are stressed.
TUESDAY, JUNE 19, 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
GAY, LESBIAN, BI-SEXUAL AND TRANSGENDER FOSTER YOUTH
Facilitator: Karen Cash - Liberal Arts Building, Room 102
This course will provide caretakers a chance to examine their pre-conceived ideas of sexuality and sexual orientation. Hear from foster children who identify themselves as gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgender. Hear what you can do to affirm the lives of all children living in the foster care system. Participants will be able to define basic gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgender terms, articulate the difference between both sexual identity and gender identity and the difference between sexual orientation and sexual behavior, and describe the main protections of AB 458.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 20, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
HOW ‘HOODLUM’ GROUPS ATTRACT OUR CHILDREN
Facilitator: Dan Crain - North Hall, Room 253
Crips, Skinheads, Mexican Mafia, Bloods, Hells Angels, and others, are notorious organizations known for violent membership. They are ‘HOODLUMS’ - participating in drug manufacturing/trafficking, identity fraud, murder, and other criminal behaviors. Feeling on the ‘fringe’ and dispossessed from their families, foster youth may be particularly attracted to the ‘hoodlum’ lifestyle since it may provide a sense of ‘belonging.’ Parents are encouraged to attend this class to obtain a better idea of how these groups lure the young and how to prevent children from joining their ranks.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 20, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
TEACHING YOUR YOUNG ADULT’S LIFE SKILLS
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver -
Caregivers will learn how to assist their adolescents how to become responsible adults by assisting them social skills, domestic skills, control management and money management.
*Identifying techniques that will promote your young adult to become a responsible adult.
*Caregivers will identify specific skills that will enable their child or children to manage and
balance their lives.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 20, 9:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.
PREVENTING ALLEGATIONS
Facilitator: Karen Dixon, Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
Caregivers will discuss how to stay in compliance with Community Care Licensing and DCS regulations. Participants will be able to identify personal rights of youth and how to prevent personal rights violations as well as the changes in regulations as they affect Non Minor Dependents 18-21 years old.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 20, 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT PROPOSITION AB-167 (HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE REQUIREMENTS)
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver - Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
What is AB-167 about? How does AB-167 affect children in your care? Is there funding for college and higher education after high school? When and how can caregivers help their child benefit from these funds? Does it change the level of care in which the care provider is responsible? Participants will have an opportunity to explore these questions and receive an overview of educational changes created by AB167.
*Participants will learn about educational services and resources available to assist their child in
furthering their education beyond high school.
*Participants will have knowledge and understanding of findings available to assist their child in
educational goals.
TUESDAY, JUNE 26, 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
TEACHING YOUR YOUNG ADULT LIFE’S SKILLS
Facilitator: Brenda Tarver - North Hall, Room 218
Caregivers will learn how to assist their adolescents how to become responsible adults by assisting them social skills, domestic skills, control management and money management.
*Identifying techniques that will promote your young adult to become a responsible adult.
*Caregivers will identify specific skills that will enable their child or children to manage and
balance their lives.
TUESDAY, JUNE 26, 9:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M.
DEPRESSION AND SUICIDE: A GROWING EPIDEMIC
Facilitator: Karen Cash - North Hall, Room 151
Many of our children in the system view their lives as unimportant. Many suffer from depression and see their lives as dismal and without relief. Learn how to face these issues and deal with the child’s feelings of hopelessness in appropriate ways.
TUESDAY, JUNE 26, 6:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M.
WHERE ARE THE DADS?
Facilitator: Bernard Mathis
Faith Temple Church, 2361 E. Date St., San Bernardino, 92404
This class looks at the importance of Fathers, Dads, and Male Role Models being included in children’s lives that are in the Foster Care System. Information will be provided to attendees on the new policies and protocols to improve the engagement of fathers who have children involved in the child welfare system. The State of California is currently implementing a plan to assist agencies with enhancing their efforts to engage and involve fathers.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27, 9:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.
PREPARING FOR SUMMER ACTIVITIES
Facilitator: Karen Dixon, Parent Education Center, 1010 Grant Ave.
Keeping children active and involved takes planning in advance! Caregivers will understand reasons for summer planning and identify resources for summer activities that help children learn and grow.