FKCE Class Schedule
2026 SPRING
Foster and Kinship Care Education Trainings
SPRING Office Hours
MONDAY - THURSDAY 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
FRIDAY 8:00 am - 2:00pm
*Please note our office will be closed for the holidays from December 24, 2025 - January 2, 2026 and will reopen January 5, 2026.
Registration for trainings!
Please call 909-384-4457 or 909-294-6913 or email fkce@valleycollege.edu
San Bernardino Valley College, as well as the entire community college community, continues to work tirelessly to help students, their families, resource parents, and kinship families get through this crisis as they play a critical role in our state's recovery. Working together and following safety guidelines and procedures, we can help keep our community healthy.
- The FKCE program will only be providing trainings online, with a few in-person classes, to resource parents and kinship caregivers through ZOOM and will require each participant to use a computer and/or phone and to have an email address to participate. (If you don't hae an email, please create one using yahoo.com or gmail.com) Each participant will need to download the ZOOM app on their computer and/or phone.
- Participants can register by calling 909-384-4457 or email fkce@valleycollege.edu confirmation will be sent to emails when done in a timely manner, weekdays 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Please only register for two (2) trainings at a time.
- Participants will be required to complete a registration form online, unless you have taken trainings in the last 90 days; EVERYONE needs to have an email address.
- Participants will receive certificates for attendance only when evaluations are completed, and attendance verified by the trainer; certificates will be emailed to participants by the Senior Student Services Technician.
- Participants not physically involved in the training or leaving early or joining the
meeting more than 10 minutes late (without specific approval by the trainer) will
NOT receive a certificate.
NO CHILDREN or PETS or other distractions are allowed in the training which should take place in a private area to maintain confidentiality. - Thanks for your patience during this challenging time.
Lucy Razo, FKCE Instructional Specialist
For general information regarding trainings, please call (909) 384-4457. All of the trainings listed in this schedule meet the criteria for San Bernardino County’s training for RFA (Resource Family Approval) pre and post trainings and for Los Angeles County’s Special Care Increment rate pre and post 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
Sumreen Chattha at sumreen.chattha@hss.sbcounty.gov
PLEASE CALL 909-384-4457 OR LUCY AT (909) 294-6913 TO REGISTER FOR TRAININGS OR EMAIL
fkce@valleycollege.edu
DISABILITY SERVICES: For disability-related reasonable accommodations, please contact the FKCE Program
office at (909) 384-4457 or (909) 294-6913 no later than two weeks prior to the date services are needed.
QUESTIONS: For further information, contact the
SBVC Foster & Kinship Care Education Program office:
San Bernardino Valley College - ADSS 202
701 South Mount Vernon Avenue, San Bernardino, CA 92410
909-384-4457 (FKCE Office) 909-294-6913 (Lucy Razo)
CLASES VIRTUALES EN ESPAÑOL
MARTES, ENERO 20, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
EXPLOTACION SEXUAL COMERCIAL DE NINOS (CSEC)
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
Se proporcionarán a los proveedores de cuidado herramientas para identificar señales de advertencia e indicadores de la participación en la Explotación Sexual Comercial de Niños (CSEC). Los proveedores de cuidado obtendrán la capacidad de reconocer los riesgos asociados con niños y jóvenes en entornos de cuidado fuera del hogar; identificar y fortalecer los factores de protección para prevenir la participación de jóvenes en la CSEC; y comprender los elementos fundamentales de la conciencia, identificación, intervención y derivación para la evaluación y tratamiento de la CSEC. Los cuidadores desarrollarán una comprensión de las necesidades de la CSEC desde la perspectiva de los sobrevivientes.
SABADO, ENERO 24, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
CREANDO ENTORNTORNOS SEGUROS: PREVENCION DEL ABUSO SEXUAL INFANTIL EN EL CUIDADO TEMPORAL
ENTRENADOR: JORGE RAZO
Muchos niños y niñas en cuidado temporal (foster care) han estado expuestos al abuso sexual. Por esta razón, es fundamental que los cuidadores cuenten con las herramientas necesarias para apoyar a estos menores de manera adecuada y segura. Este entrenamiento proporciona conocimientos y estrategias para prevenir, identificar y responder de forma responsable ante el abuso sexual infantil. A través de videos y discusiones en grupo, los participantes aprenderán acciones simples y prácticas que pueden implementar para proteger a los niños bajo su cuidado. Además, el entrenamiento incluye orientación sobre cómo colaborar eficazmente con trabajadores sociales, terapeutas y agencias de crianza para garantizar un enfoque integral en la protección y recuperación de los menores.
MARTES, ENERO 27, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
ADOPCION
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
La presentación sobre “Adopción” en ofrece una guíasobre el proceso, los tipos de adopción reconocidos en el estado de California y las implicaciones legales y emocionales para todas las partes involucradas. Se abordan las etapas del proceso general de adopción, incluyendo la solicitud, evaluación del hogar, emparejamiento con el menor y la audiencia final. También se explica la adopción desde el sistema de foster care, por parientes y por padrastros, junto con los apoyos disponibles como subsidios, Medi-Cal y servicios post-adopción. Finalmente, se analizan aspectos emocionales como la vinculación, la identidad del menor, las adopciones abiertas o transraciales y los recursos disponibles para familias adoptivas.
MARTES, FEBRERO 3, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
DISCIPLINA POSITIVA
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
La classe sobre Disciplina Positiva explora un enfoque educativo basado en el respeto mutuo, la comunicación efectiva y la comprensión de las causas subyacentes del comportamiento. Se destacan sus principios clave, como la motivación, la autorregulación y las consecuencias lógicas, además de estrategias prácticas para implementarla en diversos entornos como el hogar, la escuela y el trabajo. También se analizan herramientas y técnicas útiles, los desafíos más comunes y cómo superarlos, subrayando la importancia de crear entornos seguros y consistentes para el aprendizaje y el crecimiento.
SABADO, FEBRERO 7, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
ROLES DE LOS HERMANOS EN LA DINAMICA FAMILIAR: NAVEGANDO LA SEPARACION Y LA CONEXION
ENTRENADOR: JORGE RAZO
Este entrenamiento está diseñado para ayudar a los padres de crianza a comprender los roles únicos que los hermanos desempeñan dentro de la dinámica familiar, especialmente cuando enfrentan la separación debido al cuidado temporal. Los participantes aprenderán cómo estas relaciones influyen en el bienestar emocional y social de los niños, y cómo apoyar a los hermanos para mantener conexiones saludables a pesar de los cambios y desafíos. Se brindarán estrategias prácticas para fomentar la comunicación, fortalecer los vínculos fraternales y promover un ambiente familiar más estable y afectivo. Este conocimiento es clave para ofrecer un cuidado más integral y sensible que beneficie a toda la familia.
MARTES, FEBRERO 17, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
TRASTORNOS POR CONSUMO DE SUSTANCIAS EN ADOLESCENTES
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
La presentación sobre Trastornos por consumo de sustancias en adolescentes ofrece un recorrido completo por las causas, consecuencias, prevención y tratamiento del uso de sustancias en jóvenes. Comienza definiendo qué son los trastornos por consumo según el DSM-5 y destaca su impacto en el desarrollo del cerebro adolescente. Examina las sustancias más comunes (como alcohol, marihuana, vapes, inhalantes y opioides), los factores de riesgo (biológicos, psicológicos, familiares y sociales) y las señales de alerta. También analiza las consecuencias físicas, emocionales y sociales del consumo, y presenta estrategias de prevención efectivas tanto a nivel familiar, escolar como comunitario.
SABADO, FEBRERO 21, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
FORTALECIONDO LAS RELACIONES ENTRE HERMANOS: UNA CLAVE PARA MEJORES RESULTADOS EN EL CUIDADO TEMPORAL
ENTRENADOR: JORGE RAZO
Las conexiones entre hermanos desempeñan un papel fundamental en el bienestar emocional y la estabilidad de los niños en cuidado temporal. Mantener y fortalecer estos lazos brinda a los niños un sentido de identidad, apoyo y continuidad durante tiempos de incertidumbre. Las investigaciones demuestran que preservar las relaciones entre hermanos puede reducir el trauma, mejorar los resultados conductuales y aumentar la resiliencia general. Esta capacitación destaca estrategias efectivas para promover las conexiones entre hermanos, enfatizando su papel vital en la creación de una experiencia de cuidado temporal más positiva y estable para los niños y sus familias.
MARTES, FEBRERO 24, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
MEJORES PRACTICAS PARA PROVEER CUIDADO Y SUPERVISION A NINOS CON NECESIDADES
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
Esta presentación aborda las mejores prácticas para el cuidado y la supervisión de niños con necesidades especiales, enfocándose en la comunicación efectiva, manejo del comportamiento, medidas de seguridad, y creación de entornos de aprendizaje inclusivos y de apoyo. También se destacan las técnicas de inclusión escolar, la colaboración con familias, y la defensa de los derechos de los niños. Se incluyen recursos útiles para cuidadores y educadores. La presentación concluye con recomendaciones para el autocuidado de los cuidadores y la importancia de la evolución continua de las prácticas y la capacitación profesional.
MARTES, MARZO 3, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
MANEJO DEL COMPORTAMIENTO
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
Esta presentación explica de forma práctica cómo comprender y manejar conductas desafiantes en niños y adolescentes. Aborda los principios básicos del manejo de conducta, la neurociencia del comportamiento y los factores que influyen en la conducta, incluyendo trauma y necesidades no satisfechas. Presenta estrategias proactivas para prevenir problemas, como rutinas, refuerzo positivo y enseñanza de habilidades socioemocionales. También describe estrategias reactivas para intervenir en el momento, incluyendo desescalamiento, co-regulación y manejo seguro de agresiones.
SABADO, MARZO 7, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
APOYANDO A LAS VICTIMAS: PREVENCION Y REPUESTA AL ABUSO y RESPUESTA AL ABUSO SEXUAL INFANTIL
ENTRENADOR: JORGE RAZO
Esta capacitación está diseñada para brindar a los cuidadores el conocimiento y las herramientas necesarias para prevenir el abuso sexual infantil y responder de manera efectiva cuando ocurra. Los participantes aprenderán a reconocer las señales de abuso, responder con empatía y responsabilidad, y apoyar el proceso de sanación de las víctimas. La capacitación enfatiza el enfoque de atención informada por el trauma y la colaboración con profesionales de la salud mental, trabajadores sociales y agencias de protección infantil para garantizar un entorno seguro y de apoyo para cada niño.
MARTES, MARZO 10, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
PLANES DE EDUCACION INDIVIDUALIADOS (IEP) EN CALIFORNIA
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
Este taller sobre los Planes de Educación Individualizados (IEP) en California proporciona una visión completa de los procesos, componentes y lineamientos específicos del estado para apoyar a estudiantes con discapacidades. Aborda desde la definición y propósito de los IEP hasta los roles de los miembros del equipo, incluyendo a padre, maestros y proveedores de servicios. También se revisan los pasos clave para desarrollar y evaluar un-IEP, desde la evaluación inicial hasta la implementación y el seguimiento del progreso del estudiante. Además, el taller cubre recursos para padres y métodos de resolución de disputas, así como la planificación de transición para preparar a los estudiantes para la vida post-escolar. Este contenido está diseñado para facilitar una colaboración eficaz entre todas las partes involucradas en el éxito educativo de los estudiantes con necesidades especiales.
MARTES, MARZO 24, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
COMPRENDIENDO LA LEY FEDERAL DE BIENESTAT INFANTIL INDIGENA
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
La presentación aborda la Ley Federal de Bienestar Infantil Indígena (ICWA), promulgada en 1978 para proteger a los niños indígenas, preservar sus lazos culturales y reforzar la soberanía tribal. Se detalla la necesidad histórica de la ley, sus disposiciones clave, como la jurisdicción tribal y las preferencias de colocación, y los procedimientos legales que garantizan los derechos de las tribus en casos de custodia. También se analizan los desafíos legales y las críticas actuales, así como los impactos positivos de la ICWA en las comunidades indígenas. La presentación concluye con las reformas propuestas y la importancia de la ICWA en el bienestar y la preservación cultural de los niños indígenas.
SABADO, MARZO, 28, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
DE LA CONCIENCIA A LA DEFENSA: ENTENDIENDO LOS DERECHOS DE LOS JÓVENES EN CUIDADO TEMPORAL COMO CUIDADOR(A)
ENTRENADOR: JORGE RAZO
Este taller está diseñado para empoderar a padres de crianza con el conocimiento necesario sobre los derechos fundamentales de los jóvenes bajo su cuidado. Comprender estos derechos no solo garantiza el cumplimiento legal, sino que también promueve un ambiente de respeto, estabilidad y apoyo emocional. A través de esta capacitación, los cuidadores aprenderán cómo ser defensores efectivos, fomentar la confianza con los jóvenes, y colaborar con agencias y profesionales para asegurar que se respeten y protejan sus derechos. Una crianza informada es clave para el bienestar y el desarrollo positivo de los jóvenes en cuidado temporal.
MARTES, MARZO 31, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
COMPRENDER LAS DIFERENTES OPCIONES DE PERMAMENCIA EN CALIFORNIA
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
La presentación aborda las diferentes opciones de permanencia para niños en el sistema de bienestar infantil de California, incluyendo la reunificación familiar, adopción, tutela legal, cuidado de crianza a largo plazo y cuidado de parientes. Se explican los procesos, beneficios y desafíos de cada opción, destacando la importancia de la estabilidad y el bienestar del niño. Además, se detalla la toma de decisiones en la planificación de permanencia y los servicios de apoyo disponibles, como asistencia financiera, salud mental, y programas educativos.
MARTES, ABRIL 7, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
CONVERTIR SUENOS EN TITULOS—CURSO EDUCATIVO 2: APOYAR LAS TRANSICIONES SECUNDARIA A LA UNIVERSIDAD
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
La vida después de la escuela secundaria es una gran transición, y muchos jóvenes de acogida no comienzan a prepararse lo suficientemente temprano. Esta sesión ayudará a los cuidadores a comprender cómo apoyar a sus jóvenes para hacer una transición sin problemas de la escuela secundaria a la universidad. Los cuidadores aprenderán sobre los beneficios de la universidad y los diferentes caminos universitarios disponibles, de modo que puedan alentar a los jóvenes a hacer un plan que sea adecuado para ellos. Los cuidadores también aprenderán sobre los pasos clave que los jóvenes deben tomar en su tercer y cuarto año de secundaria, así como los apoyos y recursos que existen para ayudar a los jóvenes en el camino.
SABADO, ABRIL 11, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
CSEC: EXPLOTACION SEXUAL Y COMERCIAL DE NIÑOS
ENTRENADOR: JORGE RAZO
En esta clase los padres de crianza recibirán una orientación para identificar la explotación sexual y comercial de niños, los componentes básicos del tráfico de humanos, vocabulario usado en el tráfico de humanos, factores sociales que lo influencian, así como factores de riesgo. Los cuidadores aprenderán podrán identificar indicadores físicos y de conducta e identificar recursos y servicios para víctimas de la explotación sexual y comercial de niños.
MARTES, ABRIL 14, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
CUIDADO INFORMADO EN TRAUMA Y APEGO
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
La vida después de la escuela secundaria es una gran transición, y muchos jóvenes de acogida no comienzan a prepararse lo suficientemente temprano. Esta sesión ayudará a los cuidadores a comprender cómo apoyar a sus jóvenes para hacer una transición sin problemas de la escuela secundaria a la universidad. Los cuidadores aprenderán sobre los beneficios de la universidad y los diferentes caminos universitarios disponibles, de modo que puedan alentar a los jóvenes a hacer un plan que sea adecuado para ellos. Los cuidadores también aprenderán sobre los pasos clave que los jóvenes deben tomar en su tercer y cuarto año de secundaria, así como los apoyos y recursos que existen para ayudar a los jóvenes en el camino.
MARTES, ABRIL 21, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
EFECTOS PSICOLOGICOS Y SOCIALES DE LA ADOPCION EN LAS FAMILIAS Y LOS NINOS
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
Esta presentación ofrece un análisis de los efectos psicológicos y sociales de la adopción en los niños y en las familias adoptivas. Examina las etapas emocionales clave, incluyendo el desarrollo del apego, la construcción de identidad y el duelo por la familia biológica. También aborda cómo el trauma temprano, la resiliencia y el entorno familiar influyen en el bienestar emocional del niño. Se exploran los desafíos que enfrentan los padres adoptivos, así como los factores sociales como el estigma, la diversidad familiar y la discriminación. Finalmente, la presentación ofrece estrategias prácticas, recursos profesionales y ejemplos de resiliencia para fortalecer la identidad del niño y promover vínculos familiares saludables.
SABADO, ABRIL 25, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
QUE ES INTIMIDA EN LAS ESCUELAS?
ENTRENADOR: JORGE RAZO
Este curso describe varias técnicas que los cuidadores de crianza deben ser conscientes de la realidad sobre la intimidación con los jóvenes en las escuelas. Los participantes identificarán y definir distintas técnicas interactivas para ayudar a fomentar la juventud, reconocer qué hacer para prevenir el acoso se en el entorno escolar. Los participantes también colaborará en el juego de roles para ayudar mejor ayudar a los jóvenes a reconocer los signos de la intimidación.
MARTES, ABRIL 28, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
NUTRICION Y SALUD MENTAL
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
La presentación "Nutrición y Salud Mental " explora cómo una alimentación equilibrada influye en el bienestar psicológico de los niños en acogida. Destaca la importancia de una dieta adecuada para el desarrollo cognitivo y emocional, y analiza los desafíos nutricionales y emocionales que enfrentan estos menores. Además, ofrece estrategias prácticas para cuidadores y profesionales, con el fin de mejorar la salud integral de los niños en el sistema de crianza.
SABADO, MAYO 2, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
CURSO DE EDUCACIÓN 2: APOYAR TRANSICIONES EXITOSAS DE LA ESCUELA SECUNDARIA A LA UNIVERSIDAD
ENTRENADOR: JORGE RAZO
Este curso está diseñado para cuidadores con jóvenes de 11 ° a 12 ° grado o recién graduados de secundaria. Este curso ayudará a los cuidadores a comprender cómo apoyar a sus jóvenes para que hagan una transición sin problemas de la escuela secundaria a la universidad.
MARTES, MAYO 5, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
ASISTENCIA CON LA AUTOADMINISTRACION DE MEDICAMENTOS PSICOTROPICOS
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
Esta classe está diseñada para guiar a cuidadores y profesionales en el proceso de apoyar a los niños en la toma segura de sus medicamentos. Se cubren temas como los tipos de medicamentos psicotrópicos, las condiciones que tratan, la preparación para la autoadministración, los pasos para un uso seguro, y el fomento de habilidades de gestión independiente. También se abordan los desafíos comunes, la comunicación abierta, el manejo de efectos secundarios y los recursos disponibles para cuidadores. La presentación incluye consideraciones culturales y aspectos legales para garantizar una comprensión completa del tema y facilitar una transición segura hacia la autoadministración.
MARTES, MAYO 12, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
COMO AYUDAR A LAS FAMILIAS A MANEJAR EL ESTRES
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
La presentación “Cómo ayudar a las familias a manejar el estrés” ofrece herramientas prácticas y estrategias para identificar, comprender y reducir el estrés familiar. Se analizan las causas comunes del estrés en padres, cuidadores y niños, así como sus manifestaciones emocionales y conductuales. Se proponen técnicas para promover la comunicación, la organización del hogar, el autocuidado y el fortalecimiento del vínculo familiar. También se presentan actividades específicas para ayudar a niños y adolescentes a regular sus emociones. Finalmente, se destaca la importancia del apoyo profesional, comunitario y de la creación de redes de contención, promoviendo una cultura de cuidado familiar y resiliencia.
MARTES, MAYO 19, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
COMO HABLAR CON NINOS EN CRIANZA SOBRE SUS HISTORIAS DE ORIGEN Y SUS FAMILIAS BIOLOGICAS
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
Cómo hablar con niños en crianza sobre sus historias de origen y sus familias biológicas
La presentación aborda cómo hablar con niños en crianza sobre sus historias de origen, destacando la importancia de ofrecer información honesta, clara y apropiada para su desarrollo. Explica que evitar el tema puede causar confusión, ansiedad y problemas de identidad, mientras que una comunicación sensible fortalece la confianza y el bienestar emocional del niño. También guía a cuidadores y profesionales en cómo prepararse, crear un ambiente seguro y responder preguntas difíciles con un enfoque informado en trauma. El contenido subraya que estas conversaciones deben retomarse a lo largo del tiempo, ajustándose a las necesidades y etapa de desarrollo del niño. Finalmente, resalta el papel fundamental del cuidador en apoyar la identidad, manejar emociones complejas y fomentar una narrativa de vida coherente y saludable.
MARTES, MAYO 26, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
El IMPACTO DEL USO DE LAS REDES SOCIALES EN NINOS Y ADOLESCENTE
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
Este taller analiza el impacto del uso de las redes sociales en niños y adolescentes, enfocándose en plataformas como Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Snapchat, Twitter y YouTube. Se exploran estadísticas clave, los beneficios de cada plataforma, y los riesgos asociados, como problemas de privacidad y efectos en la salud mental. Con un enfoque equilibrado, la presentación destaca la importancia del uso consciente y el papel de los controles parentales para proteger a los jóvenes en estos entornos digitales.
MARTES, JUNIO 2, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
TRAUMA Y RETRASOS EN EL DESARROLLOS
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
La presentación “Trauma y Retrasos en el Desarrollo” explora cómo las experiencias traumáticas afectan el desarrollo infantil en diversas áreas: física, cognitiva, emocional, del lenguaje y social. Se abordan los tipos de trauma, sus manifestaciones según la etapa del desarrollo, y cómo el trauma puede provocar retrasos significativos, especialmente en niños en situaciones de vulnerabilidad como el cuidado temporal. La presentación también revisa los hitos del desarrollo típico, herramientas de evaluación, señales de alerta, y la importancia de una detección temprana. Finalmente, se ofrecen estrategias de intervención centradas en el trauma, el rol del cuidador, apoyos escolares y comunitarios, y recursos para fomentar la resiliencia y la recuperación.
MARTES, JUNIO 9, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
COMPRENDER COMO UTILIZAR LAS MEJORES PRACTICAS PARA BRINDAR CUIDADO Y SUPERVISION A NINOS LGBTQ+
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
Esta clase aborda conceptos básicos de diversidad LGBTQ+, la creación de entornos seguros y afirmativos, el apoyo emocional y psicológico, y estrategias para trabajar con jóvenes transgénero y sus familias. También se incluyen prácticas culturales, manejo de discriminación, fortalecimiento de la resiliencia y recursos disponibles. La presentación enfatiza la importancia de la aceptación, la confidencialidad y el respeto por los derechos de los niños LGBTQ+, proporcionando herramientas para fomentar un cuidado inclusivo y ético.
MARTES, JUNIO 16, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
CULTTIVANDO LA AUTOESTIMA EN NINOS
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
La autoestima es clave en el desarrollo integral de los niños, influyendo en su bienestar emocional, social y académico. La presentación destaca cómo la familia, la escuela, los pares y la comunidad juegan un papel esencial en su construcción. Ofrece estrategias prácticas para el hogar y la escuela, como el uso de lenguaje positivo, el reconocimiento de logros y dinámicas grupales que fomentan la confianza. También identifica señales de una autoestima baja y subraya la importancia de detectarlas a tiempo. Finalmente, resalta el rol de padres, maestros y profesionales como acompañantes en este proceso, e incluye recursos prácticos para fortalecer la autoestima en diferentes contextos
MARTES, JUNIO 23, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
SENSIBILIDAD CULTURAL EN EL CUIDADO DE CRIANZA EN CALIFORNIA
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
Este taller aborda la importancia de la sensibilidad cultural en el sistema de cuidado de crianza en California, destacando la necesidad de respetar y mantener las identidades culturales de los niños bajo cuidado. Se exploran prácticas inclusivas, como el apoyo a la lengua materna, el respeto a las creencias religiosas y la comprensión de las necesidades culturales específicas, además de los marcos legales relevantes, como la Ley de Bienestar Infantil Indígena (ICWA) y la Ley de Colocación Multiétnica (MEPA). También se incluyen recursos y estrategias para ayudar a los cuidadores y profesionales a superar desafíos y fomentar un entorno de crianza inclusivo y culturalmente respetuos.
MARTES, JUNIO 30, 9:00AM – 11:00 AM
LA SALUD SEXUAL Y REPRODUCTIVA
ENTRENADORA: LEILA MONTIEL
La presentación aborda la salud sexual y reproductiva (SSR) en el contexto del cuidado de crianza, destacando la importancia de proporcionar educación y servicios integrales a esta población vulnerable. Se exploran las características y riesgos específicos de los jóvenes en cuidado de crianza, incluidas las altas tasas de embarazo adolescente, ITS y falta de acceso a recursos de SSR. También se analizan las barreras sistémicas, legales y sociales que limitan la atención, así como intervenciones y mejores prácticas para mejorar los resultados de SSR. La presentación concluye con recursos disponibles.
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CLASSES IN ENGLISH ON ZOOM UNLESS MARKED OTHERWISE
FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
UNDERSTANDING A DIAGNOSIS
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
Many of us think that the diagnosis is some sophisticated understanding of what problems the kids or teens have, and it is not. We will talk about just what the diagnosis is, not at heart, but at rock bottom! There can be helpful information in a diagnosis, and, at the same time, the diagnosis can be a very unhelpful and non-therapeutic label or box. We will look at the diagnoses and get a good grasp of whether the label provides us with valuable information for developing a healing plan and a healing relationship.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 17, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
TURNING DREAMS INTO DEGREES
TRAINER: WANDALYN LANE
Foster children deserve and can attend college and graduate from college; I can be an advocate for my foster child. The participants will learn and how to motivate their foster youth to attend college or higher education to be a productive citizen in society.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
SEEING CLEARLY MY STRENGTHS AND MY LIMITATIONS
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
Do we think we are good at dealing with four-letter words until we hear them? Are we getting good at noticing those tiny bits of improvements that are like seeds waiting for us to water them? Or do we continue to remind the kids of just how slight improvement they have made? Is our need for respect and appreciation reflecting a huge hole that mistakenly we think the kids can fill? Or are we beginning to relish the feedback we get from other foster parents, our friends and loved ones, and most importantly, from ourselves when we look into the mirror? It is okay to acknowledge our shortcomings. It is the only way for us to move and grow and lead our kids down a similar pathway!
FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
WHAT DOES A PRENT-CHILD RELATIONSHIP LOOK LIKE?
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
A parent-child relationship is and is not like no other. And there are also strong cultural and religious traditions that can dictate what that parent-child relationship looks like. It can be challenging for us to shift gears and really take a deep honest look at what it is that we would like to experience in ANY relationship and especially in our relationship with children. And when it comes to fostering, how do we incorporate love into our relationships with foster kids? And is there such a thing as a balance beam so we are neither permissive or authoritarian and always holding both ourselves and our kids responsible and accountable?
TUESDAY, JANUARY 27, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
CREATING STRUCTURE VERSUS FEAR AND FORCE
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
What will it take for us to use our creative skills to create a powerful, almost magical, family structure that makes it possible for our kids to come out of survival mode and ourselves as well? It does not require being a drill instructor, but rather a parent who is willing to learn to create an effective and powerful family structure based on love, responsibility, accountability, and a place where we can all live and thrive to do our very best.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
DEVELOPMENTAL STAGES FOR KIDS IN OUT-OF-HOME PLACEMENT
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
The children we love and serve often get stuck in their chronological age development because they never progress in their placement age. They are always leaving placement and starting over again in a new placement. YES, that is a CRITICAL experience and often leaves kids beyond stuck in both chronological and placement age. Participants will learn the difference between chronological age and placement age. And, more importantly, how we need to use that awareness to grow our skills as a loving and mature parent. Yes, sometimes we are stuck in our own developmental issues!
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
DON’T TAKE THEIR ATTITUDE AND BEHAVIOR PERSONALLY!
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
It is critical that we learn to respond to their attitude and behavior in a way that enhances our relationship with them. Secondly, we want the attitude and behavior to change, but not go underground. Using their behavior and attitude to meet our needs for respect and appreciation is like looking into a very cracked mirror! This training will demonstrate powerful and magical ways of responding to their attitude and behavior that become transformative both for them and for us.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
THINKING OF PARENTING APPROACH: CHILDREN AND TRAUMA ISSUES
TRAINER: WANDALYN LANE
My child continues to misbehave no matter what I say or do to stop the misbehavior. I am losing my grip on parenting my child. I find myself going back wanting to spank to stop the misbehavior. I just want my child to listen to me all the time. Participants will learn and practice techniques to help their child(ren) recover from trauma issues. Participants will learn because behavior has been learned through negative experiences, it can get unlearned with positive experiences.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
WE ARE A CRITICAL PART OF HEALING THEIR TRAUMA, GRIEF, AND LOSSES
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
We all experience trauma at various times in our lives, and we all deserve healing from those experiences. The key to healing is someone LISTENING fearlessly to our story. Yes, just listening, not commenting, or reassuring us that it really is no big deal. Trauma is ALWAYS a big deal even if we do survive. Therapy can help and often does not as you know so well. Often the missing piece in the therapy process is in the US! Yes, we, the significant adults who live with them twenty-four seven!
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
HOW DOES THE EXPERIENCE OF LOVE FOSTER REGULATING BOTH EMOTIONS AND BEHAVIOR?
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
For years, those of us in the healing professions, including foster parents, are told that love was not a part of healing, and not a part of the foster parent-child relationship. YET, this most powerful and most healing experience between human beings. LOVE is, in fact, the key ingredient in both healing trauma and the development of healthy regulation of emotions and behavior. This training will demonstrate what it looks like to include love, our most healing gift, in our relationship.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
FLOOKING AT GENDER AND ORIENTATION IN THE CONTEXT OF HUMAN SEXUALITY
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
If we really grasp that we are all sexual people and what important and basic needs are associated with our sexuality, then parenting kids and teens who are trying to understand themselves in terms of gender and orientation will not be so problematic. We will learn how to respond to kids’ and teens’ basic needs to know they are valuable, loved, belong, and capable of standing on their own two feet. These basic needs transcend gender and orientation issues and if met, provide a person what they need on the inside to integrate their gender and orientation.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
UNDERSTANDING GENDER AND ORIENTATION
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
We may entangle gender and orientation issues with all kinds of religious beliefs and political viewpoints which will make it impossible for us to get a clear understanding of what it actually is. We will look at what are the normal biological variations so that then we might be able to come up with a way to parent both heterosexual and LGBTQ kids to that promote healthy growth and a healthy understanding of who they are. We can all learn a lot both from the information presented as well as from each other’s experiences.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
IS BULLY JUST ANOTHER LABEL?
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
Is “bully” just another label that we can use to avoid acknowledging a couple of things? One, we do not know how to effectively parent this kid, and secondly, maybe we too are bullies? The “coolest” thing about getting to be a foster parent is that we get to work on ourselves for FREE! In this training, we will learn to recognize just who the bully really is. A kid who is afraid and very insecure hides behind that wall of aggression and often says “you can’t make me!” Once we recognize who the bully really is, our challenge becomes pretty simple: free the kid from survival mode so he or she can truly live and experience healthy relationships with parents, parent figures, and peers.
TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
BEING IN CONTROL SHOWS US JUST HOW POWERLESS WE FEEL!
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
We can’t control the ants! Spray is temporary, and it does not work with kids! No, we can’t control the kids. Control does not grow the kids who will want to come visit us twenty years from now! Perhaps our biggest problem is our lack of ability to engage our kids in any other way other than controlling them. That control undermines our power which is there for the taking. Our challenge is to create a relationship that holds the child both accountable and responsible for his or her decisions and a relationship that draws them close to us because they want what we have to offer them.
FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
THE IMPACT OF FAMILY
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
Recognizing how those dysfunctional patterns in our lives seem to mirror the dysfunctional patterns in our families of origin is unnerving. But there it is. The same phenomenon occurs in the lives and families of the kids we love and serve, and some of them are a part of our families! The same phenomenon occurs in the families that we create in our foster family or group home family. From this awareness, we can develop more effective interventions in bringing about change.
SATURDAY, MARCH 7, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
POSITIVE DISCIPLINE
TRAINER: WANDALYN LANE
Today discipline is not easy, and there is so much we need to know about disciplining children. I have tried many things that I learned from my parents, but it is not working. I want my child to have respectful behavior toward others, and I don’t want to spank my child when he/she misbehaves. Participants will explore how their parents discipline, how discipline has evolved and discover the creative ways to discipline in theses modern times. Participants will learn how to use the Modern Self-Discipline recipe to motivate acceptable behavior and eliminate unacceptable behavior.
TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
A POWERFUL ASSET: OUR VOICE!
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
There is more in our voice than we can even begin to imagine. We can captivate, influence, lead, almost hypnotize, drawing the most challenging and out-of-control kids into behaving responsibly as well as other adults taking us seriously. It is unbelievable, and that is the first step. We must believe that our voice has that kind of magic, that kind of power. It is so much easier than trying to learn and develop anger management or conflict resolution skills!
FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
EMBRACING VS STEPPING OVER LOSS
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
Many of us learned very early on to avoid experiencing loss of any kind. We learned how to step over it since we cannot really avoid it. It’s just there. It just shows up. But we can learn to NOT feel it. Perhaps for the rest of our lives, we have no empathy for either ourselves or anyone else. “Suck it up” becomes our motto. It may seem like a good plan with many advantages, and yet it leaves us quite cold. People are drawn to us until they get close to us and find all the doors and windows shut tightly. There is no one here to love nor even communicate with. In this training, we will learn how to gradually open those doors and windows both for ourselves and the kids we love and serve. It really isn’t scary. It just seems that way!
SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
ACTIVE PARENTING
TRAINER: WANDALYN LANE
No more sitting on the side lines, discover why raising World Class Kids are uniquely ski. Participants will practice and explore how to avoid communication blocks and putting active communication to work.
TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
WHAT DRIVES US TO WIN WHEN THERE IS NO GAME?
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
We all know that urge to win whether we are watching a game on television, attending a game in real life, or actively involved in some kind of competition. And we all know the depression that goes with losing, especially when we were confident in winning. We may not recognize these same urges and dynamics when they arise like a tidal wave in conflicts with adults and kids. As long as we are connected to this urge to win when there is no sporting event, we are literally dead in the water when it comes to meaningful relationships. This training will help put this urge to rest in our meaningful relationships and in our work with kids.
TUESDAY, MARCH 24, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
BECOMING IMMUNED AND TUNED IN TO THEIR VERBAL ABUSE
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
How is it that, after all we have learned about working with our kids, we still insist upon taking their verbal abuse very personally. Their verbal abuse becomes one of their favorite weapons for hurting us! An effective punishment is not the answer here! Mainly because there isn’t one unless we want to keep the war going. In our training, we will learn to shift the focus from verbal abuse to looking at what the kid needs from us emotionally. It is a simple process but not easy if we insist on taking it personally, and we will look long and hard at why we would insist on doing that!
FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
NO REASON TO BE AFRAID OF ANGER
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
We might be thinking that the last thing we want to do is deal with anyone’s anger, especially a kid! How about just making it disappear? That is possible! However, anger is a very important energy in our lives, and unless we know what to do with it, it will just hang around and become rage. Participants will learn how to put anger to work for us.
FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
MAKING IT EASY FOR OURSELVES TO WORK WITH THE DIFFICULT PEOPLE IN THE SYSTEM
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
There are difficult, sometimes very difficult, people to work within the system. They could be social workers, doctors and other medical professionals, lawyers, teachers. We can make it quite easy for yourself to relate to them professionally and effectively if we stay clear about who we are. As a foster parent, we are knowledgeable, skilled, experienced, and perhaps trained in ways that give us an advantage in knowing and understanding the kids we all serve. We need to believe and convey that reality in our posture, our non-verbal language in general, the way we speak, and in our responses to any moves on their part to treat us as if they are superior to us. In our training, we will have an opportunity to look at actual experiences we have encountered and literally describe them for more effective results in the future.
SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
COOPERATION & COMMUNICATION
TRAINER: WANDALYN LANE
Discover the beauty of problems and know how to use the Road to Cooperation to avoid getting into power struggles with child(ren). Participants will practice and explore how to avoid communication blocks and putting active communication to work.
TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
CONVERSATIONS ABOUT DYING
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
At some point in our existence, we ALL leave this earth. We call it dying or death. And just what is it? Well, we know a lot and we know a little. A good area of our own life to look at and explore and at least attempt to weave our fear of death into the fabric of our life. And then we can pass this on to the kids we love. We need to stop protecting both ourselves and them from this reality which many of us and them have already experienced, and sometimes in quite traumatic ways.
FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
WHY ARE ATTACHMENT OBJECTS CRITICAL?
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
An “attachment object” is just a fancy term for binkies and stuffed animals and the like. You know, those items hanging from your rear-view mirror! We will spend time talking about and sharing our thoughts and beliefs about attachment objects. We will also question our insistence on holding on to ours, but insisting that the kids we love let go of theirs. Yes, we have some redefining and cleaning up to do!
TUESDAY, APRIL 21, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
LEARNING EVERYTHING WE CAN ABOUT THEIR BRAIN AND OURS
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
Many of us do not have a clear understanding of the difference between our thinking and our feelings. So that is the first step. Then we can learn about all five parts of our brain and how they can work together to give us sound thinking and healthy processing of our emotions. And mixed in with all of that, we can learn about our survival brain, how it works, and how it does not. Not complicated, but interesting, fun, and extremely helpful. And then we can begin to recognize what is going on with our kids’ brains and stop taking their attitude and behavior so personally.
FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
FALLING ASLEEP
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
How much sleep do we need? What is the impact on our body and on our brain? For some, sleep is a breeze and for others, it is torture and a nightmare! Participants will have the opportunity to talk about sleep, learn just what it is that sleep does for us, and ways to assist ourselves and our kids in falling asleep.
TUESDAY, APRIL 28, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
MEETING NEEDS CAN BE EASY OR LIKE CLIMBING MOUNT EVEREST
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
Taking responsibility for meeting our own personal needs is critical in our work with kids because they are typically very needy and seemingly demanding on us. If we are doing a good job of taking care of our needs, then we can respond to their demands in a way that both meets their needs and helps them develop frustration tolerance without turning to any number of addictive or explosive behaviors. We want to learn just what our needs and theirs are, and we will learn that critical information in our training.
FRIDAY, MAY 1, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
PREPARE KIDS FOR EMANCIPATION AT AGE THREE!
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
YES, age three! There is that stage of development when we move from being COUNTER dependent, rebellious, to INDEPENDENT. The skills we learn during this time will plant the healthy and life-giving desire to venture out fifteen years down the road to live successfully on our own. There may be many cultural variations, and we will look at these. But we do not want to mistakenly wait for when? The seeds for living on our own begin to grow NOW!
SATURDAY, MAY 2, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
UNDERSTANDING MISS BEHAVIOR
TRAINER: WANDALYN LANE
I am not sure why I was not given this information regarding the behaviors of the children in my home. The children in my home are behaving in ways I do not understand; I needed to get more information about their behavior. Participants will learn the importance of not getting in a power struggle and the anatomy of a power struggle with children, the parent-child cycle, and how to use anger in a positive manner.
SATURDAY, MAY 2, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
FROM AWARENESS TO ADVOCACY: UNDERSTANDING FOSTER YOUTH RIGHTS AS A CAREGIVER
TRAINER: JORGE RAZO
This workshop is designed to empower foster parents with essential knowledge about the fundamental rights of the youth in their care. Understanding these rights not only ensures legal compliance, but also fosters an environment of respect, stability, and emotional support. Through this training, caregivers will learn how to be effective advocates, build trust with youth, and collaborate with agencies and professionals to ensure their rights are upheld and protected. Informed caregiving is key to the well-being and positive development of youth in foster care.
TUESDAY, MAY 5, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
EXPANDING OUR WORKING KNOWLEDGE OF OUR BRAINS
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
WE LITERALLY HAVE FIVE DIFFERENT BRAINS, and we will learn about each one, learn how to communicate with each one, and weave communication between the five brains together. We can become more thoughtful, emotionally aware and overall, neurologically balanced. Once we get it down for ourselves, we will be able to see the identical process in our kids and become much more effective in our interventions and support and care. There will be a huge difference in the way they respond to us.
FRIDAY, MAY 8, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
FEELING POWERLESS IS DIFFERENT FROM BEING POWERLESS
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
We often feel powerless and then erroneously conclude that we are, when, in fact, our power is just waiting for us to recognize it and pick it up and try it on for size! Simply entertaining the thought, I AM POWERFUL can completely cancel out feeling powerless. Like anything, this dance step takes practice! Come to the training and begin practicing.
SATURDAY, MAY 9, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
STRENGTHENING SIBLINGS’ RELATIONSHIPS: A KEY TO BETTER OUTCOMES IN FOSTER CARE
TRAINER: JORGE RAZO
Sibling connections play a crucial role in the emotional well-being and stability of children in foster care. Maintaining and strengthening these bonds provides children with a sense of identity, support, and continuity during times of uncertainty. Research shows that preserving sibling relationships can reduce trauma, improve behavioral outcomes, and enhance overall resilience. This training highlights effective strategies to promote sibling connections, emphasizing their vital role in creating a more positive and stable foster care experience for children and families.
SATURDAY, MAY 9, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
RESPONSIBILITY AND DISCIPLINE
TRAINER: WANDALYN LANE
I desire for my foster child to take responsibility for his/her actions and be accountable for his/her own behavior. Participants will learn positive communication skills, polite requests, ‘I messages’ and firm reminders, and will learn the responsibility equation and logical and natural consequences.
TUESDAY, MAY 12, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
A PROFESSIONAL AND WORKING RELATIONSHIP WITH THE SOCIAL WORKER
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
The key here is that we accept nothing less from ourselves or the social worker than a professional and working relationship. It is critical that we and the social workers work together as a team. It becomes challenging when the social worker insists upon playing a boss role. We can preclude this happening by letting the social work know who we are right from the very start. One simple way to do this is by having a standard set of questions that we ask prior to placement. The questions let the social workers know that we know our work and have a clearly defined structure with limits and lots of room for everyone to be successful both adults and kids. The system does not always support the foster parent in such a role, and that is something we can look at and work on during the training, so we become steadfast in how we see ourselves as foster parents in relationship to the system.
FRIDAY, MAY 15, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
ADOLESCENT BOYFRIENDS AND GIRLFRIENDS
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
Why don’t we kindly say, “I want to meet your boyfriend/girlfriend?” And why don’t we kindly say to our gay and lesbian foster kids, “I want to meet your boyfriend/girlfriend?” Why don’t we want to have the maximum influence we can have during this critical time in their lives when they are so desperately searching for acceptance and love? In addition, they may be unaware of replaying family patterns of domestic violence in those relationships.
SATURDAY, MAY 16, 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM
TURNING DREANS INTO DEGREES: “EDUCATION COURSE 2: SUPPORTING SUCCESSFUL TRANSITIONS FROM HIGH SCHOOL”
TRAINER: JORGE RAZO
The training will explain the benefits of post-secondary education: Identify resources to help students explore their career interests and higher education options; Describe key educational planning milestones between 11th and 12th grade; Explain key steps and resources for applying for college and financial aid; Describes specific resources, benefits and support available to help foster youth achieve their postsecondary educational goals.
TUESDAY, MAY 19, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
ARE LGBTQ TEENS REALLY DIFFERENT?
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
We can offer teens or younger children with another than straight sexual orientation the exact same “offerings” we have for every other foster child: a welcoming, an unconditional love and acceptance, affection, guidance, support and advocacy, and an openness to learning their experience of themselves and life in general. It is very easy to do if we just see them as kids with the same dreams, desires, and needs that we also had when we were kids and teenagers.
FRIDAY, MAY 22, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
CELEBRATING THEIR LIVES
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
Celebrating birthdays, holidays, and other significant moments, like graduation or sporting events, are just one piece of the bigger picture of celebrating life, and celebrating their life, an experience foster kids do not know much about. They tend not to see their life as worth celebrating and we can add to that missing piece by tying presents and gifts to their behavior and what they have earned. In this training, we will learn how to give them an experience of celebrating their life because their life is, indeed, worth celebrating no matter how awful their behavior might be. That is a tough one for most of us!
TUESDAY, MAY 26, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
THE SIMPLEST WAY TO HEAL TRAUMA
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
The simplest but most effective way for a child or an adult to heal trauma is to tell their story in ALL its gory details. Telling the story and even writing the story on the computer with pictures and music added is one of the simplest ways to move trauma into our memory so that we know the trauma is OVER. Participants will learn how to walk our children or teens through this marvelous healing process. It may open the door for us to heal our own trauma!
FRIDAY, MAY 29, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
OUR GIFT: OUR HEART AND OUR EARS
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
The stories are just too gory, or the information contains sexual content that we just do not want to hear. We cannot believe that their own parents or family members would treat them so abusively, so we end up protecting these folks by keeping the stories “off the record.” We have not told our own story yet, so listening to them triggers too much emotion for us. Whatever the reason, come to this training to learn how to leap over these hurdles and LISTEN!
TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
ADDICTIONS: THEIRS AND OURS!
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
It is painful for us to look at our own addictions. It is much easier to focus on kids’ addictions. But we have to dig up courage and humility to do so. And for one reason, so that we will know the road to recovery, the same road down which we want to take our kids.
FRIDAY, JUNE 5, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
A POWERFUL AND SIMPLE MEDICINE
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
AVOID saying things like: “I am sure your parents loved you.... she/he is your mom/dad no matter how badly they treated you....” It is not our job to protect their families nor to attack them. Our kids need US to JUST LISTEN. In the training, we will brainstorm extremely specific sentences and words to use to support our kids by making some sense of their emotional and often physically painful experiences with family.
SATURDAY, JUNE 6, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
BUILDING COURAGE & SELF-ESTEEN
TRAINER: WANDALYN LANE
I have a loving and supportive home, my child seems to self-sabotage, make excuses for poor behavior and not accept the positive values that we try to instill in our child(ren). Participants will learn the importance of developing character and self-esteem, understand consequences as a means of discipline and character-development, and learn what Values Collisions are and how to handle them.
TUESDAY, JUNE 9, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
OUR BRAIN IS DESIGNED TO SAY YES, NO, AND HELP!
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
We will learn that our yes brain is characteristically open, flexible, conscious, creative, and desires connection. It is the key when it comes to relationships and just plain living. And yes, there is also a No brain which, on the other hand, tends to be defensive, angry, and focused solely on survival even when survival is not an issue. Yes, we want to learn to switch back and forth and model that skill for our kids.
FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
WHAT IF WE SEE OUR KIDS AS NORMAL?
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
If we see our kids as problematic and disturbed, then it takes us off the hook. It is almost okay that we do not know how to parent effectively. They are beyond anyone’s help! However, if we see the kids and their behavior as normal, then we must step back and begin looking at all our over-the-top emotional reactions. What are they telling us about OURSELVES? In this training, we can make radical internal changes which will result in our parents’ skills taking on quite distinctive looks with quite different results. And we can stop seeing our kids through labels that used for mental health providers to get paid!
TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
WHY DO WE GET SO CRAZY ABOUT LYING AND STEALING?
TRAINER: VERN BRADLEY
We really must laugh at ourselves at how crazy we get about lying and stealing. Yes, of course, we want to bring an end to those behaviors, but unbelievably, our response to those behaviors only increases frequency and we tend to model socially acceptable lying and stealing!
