Family Assistance & Support 

"Family Assistance & Support" refers to a range of services and/or programs that are designed to help families facing challenges by providing financial, emotional, and other practical support, including things like food assistance, financial assistance, domestic violence support, drug/alcohol prevention, and/or immigration resources, in hopes to better support and improve the overall well-being of the family unit.

Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Support

Domestic Violence (DV) Support 

Domestic Violence (DV) is the physical, emotional, verbal or sexual abuse of an intimate partner or family member. DV is against the law, as every person has a right to live in a safe environment.

Sexual Assault (SA) Support 

Sexual Assault (SA) refers to sexual contact or behavior that occurs without explicit consent of the victim. This can happen when someone either touches another person in a sexual manner without consent or makes another person touch them in a sexual manner without consent. 

Resources:

Gretchen S. Vapnar Community Crisis Center

Drug/Alcohol Prevention & Support

Drug/Alcohol Prevention provides awareness and knowledge of the nature and extent of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use, abuse, and addiction and their effects on individuals, families, and communities.

Drug/Alcohol Support include obtaining support through various services, including therapists, doctors and other healthcare professionals, who can help if you have a problem with alcohol or other drugs (AOD). 

Resources:

SAMHSA - Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration 

Footprints to Recovery - Addiction Treatment Centers

Recovery Centers of America

Financial Assistance

Financial Assistance support for families refers to government programs or initiatives that provide monetary aid to help low-income, or other families in need.

Resources:

Gretchen S. Vapnar Community Crisis Center

Financial Assistance

Food Assistance 

Food Assistance is a broad term that refers to government programs and initiatives that provide financial aid to people & families in need. 

Resources:

Food Assistance

Immigration Resources 

Immigration Resources provide information & support for immigrants/refugees. 

Resources:

Centro de Informacion

Alianza Hispanoamericana NFP

Mental Health - For Kids

"Mental Health for Kids" refers to a child's overall emotional well-being, encompassing how they think, feel, & manage their emotions in relation to themselves and the world around them; essentially, it's about how well a child can cope with life's challenges and build healthy relationships, with good mental health meaning they feel safe, loved, and able to manage their feelings effectively.

What is ADHD?

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a developmental disorder marked by persistent symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development.

People with ADHD experience an ongoing pattern of:

• Inattention: Having problems staying on task, paying attention, or being organized, which are not due to defiance or a lack of comprehension.
  
  
• Hyperactivity: Being extremely restless or constantly moving, including in situations when it is not appropriate; excessively fidgeting or tapping; or talking too much.
  
  
• Impulsivity: Acting without thinking, interrupting others, or having difficulty with self-control. Impulsivity can also involve a desire for immediate rewards or an inability to delay gratification or consider long-term consequences.

Video: what is ADHD?

ADHD - Signs & Symptoms

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a natural human emotion characterized by feelings of worry, apprehension, tension, & uneasiness. It is a normal response to stressful or threatening situations. However, when anxiety becomes excessive, persistent, or interferes with daily life, it can be considered an anxiety disorder.

Video: Anxiety For Kids & Teens | Anxiety Symptoms, Triggers, Causes, Coping Techniques

Anxiety - Signs/ Symptoms & Coping

Video: Fight Flight Freeze Response-Anxiety & Stress-The Downside Of The Survival Brain-How To Calm It Down

What is Autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) (ASD) is a developmental disorder characterized by difficulties in social communication and interaction along with restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. Symptoms can change with development (becoming more or less severe) sometimes making a diagnosis difficult. The term “spectrum” reflects the wide variation in challenges and strengths possessed by each person with autism.

Video: What is Autism? | Cincinnati Children's

Autism Spectrum Disorder - Signs & Symptoms

Crisis - "Mental Health Emergency"

We don’t always know what a crisis is or looks like exactly. Below is information on "Being in Crisis" or having a "Mental Health Emergency" - This information can help you & your family decide if it's time to contact your therapist, meet with your doctor or go to the emergency room.

What is a Crisis or a Mental Health Emergency:

In these situations you may want to call your therapist or doctor. However, the best approach is to go to your nearest emergency room. Most - if not all - ERs have mental health professionals that can help you get the care you need or provide care there.

What does "being in crisis" mean?

Being in crisis means being so overwhelmed by a situation that you can't make decisions or take action. It can be a reaction to a traumatic event or situation, and it can cause a person to feel confused, anxious, afraid, angry, guilty, hopeless, or helpless.

• When a new or existing med causes severe headaches, rashes, vomiting, fever, pain or active thoughts of suicide not previously present. (Check with the pharmacy or your prescriber on side effects that are expected & side effects that mean an emergency for every medication you are taking.)

Crisis also means when we are not able to function in our day-to-day lives:

• Not eating
• Not sleeping
• Not being able to take care of yourself (hygiene - showering, brushing teeth, changing clothes etc.)
• Not being able to get out of bed
• Not being able to go to school

What can “Help/Support” look like?

When concerns are communicated with doctors and outside therapists, and then informed to school staff we can set a goal.

**Not all situations warrant a higher level of care or additional programming.

Safety and keeping ourselves/our loved ones safe is the highest priority.

If safety concerns are reported at school, a Level of Care recommendation will be made by school staff. A Level of Care recommendation typically involves going to the ER for a safety assessment. 

Things you can do to support these situations might include:

• Talk with your child's doctor
• Seek outside clinical therapy services (i.e., counseling) - Individual and/or Family Therapy can be helpful
• Go to the ER for a safety assessment (for crisis/unsafe situations)
  • Inpatient/Outpatient programming may be recommended, depending on individual needs being addressed

Remember, only a mental health professional can determine the level of care that you need and for how long. Just like with physical health issues, consulting with professionals available to you (i.e., doctors, therapists, school staff) is most important in receiving the best care for you and your needs. 

What is Depression?

Depression is a common & serious mental health condition that negatively affects how a person feels, the way they think, & how they act. It is characterized by a persistent low mood or loss of interest in activities that were once pleasurable, along with other symptoms that interfere with daily functioning.

Video: Depression For Kids - Coping Skills For Low & Depressed Mood - Overcoming Sadness

Depression - Signs/Symptoms & Coping

What is ODD?

Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is a behavioral disorder that affects children/adolescents, & is characterized by a pattern of defiant, hostile, & uncooperative behavior:

• Anger: Children with ODD may have frequent angry outbursts
• Irritability: They may be deliberately irritating or hostile
• Intolerance: They may have a strong intolerance for authority figures
• Disobedience: They may be persistently disobedient
• Vindictiveness: They may be spiteful and seek revenge

Video: What Is Oppositional Defiant Disorder?

Therapy/ Counseling Resources

Therapy & Counseling Services

Level of Care Resources

Social Emotional Learning

"Social/Emotional Learning" (SEL) is a process that helps children develop skills to:

• Understand & Manage Emotions
• Set & Achieve Goals
• Show Empathy for Others
• Establish & Maintain Positive Relationships
• Make Responsible Decisions

SEL Activities to do at Home:

• Label Emotions: Help your child identify & name their feelings by using “a feelings chart” or ask them to describe how they feel in different situations.
  
  
• Read Books About Emotions: Choose children’s books that discuss different emotions and use them as conversation starters to explore feelings.
  
  
• Active Listening: Pay close attention when your child is talking about their feelings, validate their emotions, & respond with empathy.
  
  
• Role-Play Scenarios: Practice different social situations through role-playing to help your child develop problem-solving & conflict resolution skills.
  
  
• Check-In Routine: Regularly ask your child how they are feeling, especially during transitions or challenging times.
  
  
• Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child when they demonstrate positive social behaviors, like sharing, being kind, or taking turns.
  
  
• Model Empathy: Show your child how to be empathetic by expressing concern for others & discussing ways to help when someone is upset.
  
  
• Teach Coping Skills: Help your child develop healthy ways to manage big emotions, like deep breathing, exercises, counting, or taking a break.
  
  
• Set Clear Expectations: Communicate clear rules & expectations regarding behavior at home, explaining the reasons behind them.
  
  
• Incorporate Mindfulness Activities: Practice simple mindfulness exercises, like meditation or focusing on deep breaths to help children become aware of emotions.

Anger Management Techniques for Kids

Anger Management Coping Skills for kids & teens. Supports kids with 5 Emotional Regulation Strategies to help manage anger.

5 Coping Strategies Include:

1. Relaxation Skills
2. Distraction Skills
3. Movement Or Physical Release
4. Thinking Skills
5. Communication Skills

Video: Anger Management Techniques For Kids - Strategies To Calm Down When Your Temper Rises

Executive Functioning Skills for Kids

Ever wonder why some kids struggle with staying organized, starting tasks, or controlling their emotions? This video explains "executive function" deficits in a kid-friendly way! Learn about the brain's "control center," discover 9 signs that might indicate executive function challenges and learn practical strategies to help boost these important skills.

This video describes 10 common executive function deficits:

1. Working Memory
2. Task Initiation (Activation)
3. Time Management
4. Focus/Attention
5. Organization
6. Flexible Thinking
7. Goal Persistence (Perseverance)
8. Emotional Control
9. Self-Control (Impulse Control)

You will also learn about the following 10 Strategies to Boost Your Executive Function Skills:

1. Use visual reminders
2. Break big tasks into smaller steps
3. Set timers
4. Create a homework station
5. Use planners or calendars
6. Practice mindfulness
7. Get moving
8. Play games that challenge your brain
9. Use "self-talk"
10. Ask for help

Video: Executive Functioning Skills For Kids | Executive Dysfunction–Executive Function Deficits-ADHD Kids

Coping with Grief & Loss

Grief is a strong emotion that people feel when they lose someone or something that was special to them. It's a time when you're feeling really sad because the person or thing that was important to you is gone. It's hard for you to feel happy, and all you want most in the world is for that person or thing to come back into your life.  

When you lose something or someone that's important to you, it's hard to know just how long you might feel grief. It takes some people a really long time to start feeling happy again, and that's OK. The time it takes is different for everyone. 

Helpful Ways to Cope with Grief:

• Focus on the good times (i.e., look through pictures, draw a picture)
• Take care of your body (i.e., eat, be active, get enough sleep)
• Be around people who love you
• Do something special (i.e., take time to do something as a way to honor someone/ something)

Video: Coping with Grief (for kids)

Growth Mindset for Kids

Help kids learn about the importance of having a Growth Mindset - Explore 7 characteristics of a growth mindset, examples of a growth mindset vs a fixed mindset, and tips to develop a growth mindset.

6 Tips To Develop A Growth Mindset:

1. Embrace Challenges
2. Learn From Mistakes
3. Believe in Yourself
4. The Power of Yet
5. Celebrate Effort
6. Embrace Feedback

Video: Growth Mindset For Kids-Growth Mindset vs. Fixed Mindset-The Power Of Yet-Elementary-Middle School

Coping Skills for Big Emotions 

Help children learn how to Manage Big Emotions. Emotional regulation tools can help support anger management, stress management, anxiety, depression, and more challenges your kids may be facing.

3 Steps To Manage Emotions:

1. Notice And Identify Your Feelings
2. Think About Coping Skills You Can Use To Feel Better
3. Take Action By Practicing One Or More Coping Skill

4 Categories Of Coping Skills:

1. Relaxation Skills
2. Distraction Skills
3. Movement Skills
4. Thinking Skills

Video: Coping Skills For Kids - Managing Feelings & Emotions For Elementary-Middle School | Self-Regulation

Self-Esteem for Kids 

Self-esteem is important because it significantly impacts how we perceive ourselves, influencing our overall well-being, relationships, & ability to achieve goals; having healthy self-esteem allows us to feel positive about ourselves, cope with challenges better, & engage with life more confidently, while low self-esteem can lead to negative emotions, difficulty in social interactions, & hinder personal growth.

10 Ways To Build Self-Esteem Include:

ACTIONS:

1. Healthy Habits
2. Focus On Your Strengths
3. Develop Your Character
4. Spend Time Around Positive People
5. Help Others

THOUGHTS:

1. Notice And Challenge Negative Thoughts
2. Use Positive Affirmations
3. Practice Gratitude
4. Be Kind To Yourself
5. Let Go Of Perfectionism

Video: Self-Esteem For Kids - 10 Ways To Build Self-Esteem & Self-Confidence

Social Skills for Kids

Social skills are important for all ages to increase success & happiness. Learn about what social skills are, how to improve them, & 10 important social skills to support your social emotional learning.

Practice being SOCIABLE:

S-mile

O-pen body language

C-ourage to practice social skills

I-nclude others in activities

A-ctive listening

B-e kind

L-earn conversation skills

E-xpress emotions  

10 Important Social Skills:

1. Communication Skills
2. Listening Skills
3. Conflict Resolution
4. Reading Social Cues
5. Good Manners
6. Respecting Personal Space
7. Setting Boundaries
8. Being Tolerant and Accepting
9. Making Friends
10. Being A Good Friend 

Video: Social Skills For Kids - Ways To Improve Social Skills For Elementary-Middle School

Stress Relief for Kids - Stress Management Techniques

Stress Management For Kids & Teens - Stress can be very uncomfortable, & sometimes overwhelming. Fortunately, stress is manageable with the right tips & coping skills.

Take a few minutes each day to practice one or more of the following stress management coping strategies:

1. Get Out In Nature
2. Start Your Day On A Positive Note
3. Get Good Sleep
4. Movement
5. Release Physical Tension
6. Positive Mindset
7. Get Organized
8. Relaxation Coping Skills
9. Help Others

Video: Stress Relief For Kids - Stress Management Techniques - 9 Daily Habits To Reduce Stress

Check out Mrs. DiSanti & Mrs. Nickol's Virtual SW Office!

Click here to explore Mrs. DiSanti & Mrs. Nickol's virtual social work office! Inside you will find videos & activities that will support social emotional learning, along with calming strategies you can practice!