Gear Parent Network

Take Action Against Bullying
2023-10-25 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Go-To Meeting
October is Bullying Awareness Month! Bullying has become such a widespread problem it is now being recognized as a major mental health concern for children and youth, having been found to leave long-term emotional scars and psychological effects similar to anxiety disorders and post-traumatic stress. This workshop will help you identify the warning signs of both the victim and the bully. Prevention and effective coping skills will be explored.

The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

Defusing Challenging Behaviors: How to Effectively De-Escalate Your Child
2023-10-23 18:00 - 20:00 | RSU Adult & Community Education , Bucksport High School 102 Broadway #1 and GOTO
What is the best way to quickly defuse your child’s challenging behavior in the heat of the moment? Yelling at them? Punishing them? Grounding them in their room for a week? Or giving “Show ‘em who’s BOSS” vibes. Using these harsh methods will only add fuel to the fire and the point is NOT TO make things worse in those intense situations. Join us in learning to use different techniques that can help defuse a situation before it gets worse!
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

Empowering Young Adults with ID/DD
2023-10-12 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
Young adults with intellectual and developmental disability labels are more capable, more fulfilled, and safer when parents support their empowerment. In this workshop, parents will explore how being an ally to their young adult’s independence can not only support individual development but also the strengthen relationships. Come learn skills and resources for supported decision-making and self-advocacy!
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

Parent Support Group
2023-10-04 13:00 - 14:30 | Go-To Meeting
You are NOT Alone! If you are a parent wanting support, or are a parent/caregiver of a child with behavioral, emotional, or developmental health needs, please consider joining us to meet and compare notes with other parents who truly understand the journey you are on. Parenting and raising a child/youth is often challenging, however even more so with a child with an emotional or behavioral health concern. Join us in this safe place with no shame, blame or judgment either in person when specified below, or virtually from the comfort of your home and chat with other parents who share similar life experiences.

The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

Nurturing Parenting for Families in Recovery
2023-10-03 15:30 - 2023-10-11 17:00 | Go-To Meeting
If you are a parent, caregiver or working on your recovery and want to learn more about the effects of substance use on your family, parenting style, and your relationship with your child/youth, please join us for this FREE 17 week program. You will explore hands on activities, along with guided discussions to enhance your self-awareness and increase your ability to relate to your child/children in a safe and supportive environment surrounded by parents and caregivers who share similar life experiences. Join us to explore ideas and build skills; strengthen your connection with your child or youth! Call Jenny at 207-859-2521 or register online at: https://kvcap-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZctceihrTMuHteI7o14lSv9bWlUPeXQ32dM#/registration

The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

September Evening Support Group
2023-09-26 19:30 - 20:30 | Go-To Meeting
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

" Defusing Challenging Behaviors: How to Effectively De-Escalate Your Child”
2023-09-21 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
What is the best way to quickly defuse your child’s challenging behavior in the heat of the moment? Yelling at them? Punishing them? Grounding them in their room for a week? Or giving “Show ‘em who’s BOSS” vibes. Using these harsh methods will only add fuel to the fire. And the point is NOT TO make things worse in those intense situations. Join us in learning to use different techniques that can help defuse a situation before it gets worse!
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

September Wednesday Support Group
2023-09-06 13:00 - 14:30 | Go-To Meeting
occurs weekly, every Wednesday
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

August Evening Support Group
2023-08-29 19:30 - 20:30 | Go-To Meeting

“G.E.A.R. Annual Family Picnic”
2023-08-12 10:00 - 13:00 | Tot Lot, Fish Hatchery Rd. (go to the end), Auburn
A light picnic buffet lunch will be provided and picnic tables are available. Feel free to bring your lawn chairs or blankets for additional seating; and if you have special dietary needs please do bring your own food. We will have fun activities too for both kids and adults alike! Registration is required. Parents/caregivers are responsible for watching their kids.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“Do You Speak Teen? ‘mnE Ps dnt bleev der is a gNR8N d/c b/t em n thr teen”
2023-08-10 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
Communicating with teens today is more challenging than ever but not impossible! This workshop will explore modern technology and give you some new ideas to peek into your teen’s world. The framework of the 40 Developmental Assets® will also be shared. Minneapolis-based Search Institute® has identified 40 building blocks of healthy development – known as “developmental assets” – that help influence choices young people make and help them become caring and responsible adults.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

Family Fun Beach Day!
2023-08-05 10:00 - 14:00 | Morgan’s Beach Route 155, Enfield-Lincoln Rd, Enfield, Route 155, Enfield, ME, 04493, United States
Join us at Morgan’s Beach on the western shore of Cold Stream Pond. Entrance is free so join us for this fun and relaxing social event with other parents and their kids! The grounds include a sandy beach, picnic area, playground, changing rooms/bathrooms along with refreshments sold at the Trap Shack. Bring your own sunscreen, blankets, chairs, toys & towels!
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“How Difficult Can This Be? The F.A.T. City Workshop” Video Presentation by Author Rick Lavoie, M.A., M.Ed.
2023-08-03 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
This unique and interactive program allows participants to experience the same Frustration, Anxiety and Tension that children with learning disabilities face in their daily lives. See how teachers, social workers, psychologists, parents, and friends who have participated in Richard Lavoie’s workshop reflect upon their experience and the way it changed their approach to children who have a learning disability.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

August Wednesday Support Group
2023-08-02 13:00 - 14:30 | Go-To Meeting

“What are Family Peer Specialists and how do they Support Maine Families?”
2023-08-01 16:00 - 18:00 | Coastal Recovery Community Center, 11 White Street, Rockland
The Family Peer Specialist (FPS) role has been in Maine to support families who have children/youth with special medical, emotional and behavioral health needs for over 25 years. During the past 10 years this role has quickly evolved to being one of not only providing emotional support and resource sharing to also reducing feelings of isolation by providing opportunities to learn from and support each other; build family protective factors, resiliency and strength; and practice vital parenting skills in an environment free from shame, blame and judgment. Join us to learn about the family organizations in Maine who offer you free parent peer support, the three levels of support, FPS role/credentialing and the benefits to the family and service delivery system when family peer specialists are utilized!
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

July Evening Support Group
2023-07-25 19:30 - 20:30 | Go-To Meeting

“Marijuana in the New Millennium”
2023-07-18 15:00 - 17:00 | Go-To Meeting
Tara’s work is to prevent youth substance use and she supports youth-led and youth-serving programming that builds young people’s resilience and strengthens youth leadership on issues of public health, restorative practices, and social justice.
Marijuana products have significantly changed in the past 10-15 years since medical and retail products have become legal. We will discuss the way new products, trends, and issues are currently presenting, as well as the concerns and risks of marijuana use, legalization, and the impact on the health and wellness of youth, families and communities. Discussion and questions are encouraged during and after the presentation.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“Empowering Young Adults with I/DD”
2023-07-14 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
Dan and Jaheim believe the youth self-advocacy movement requires parents who support their young adults in stepping into their own power, and they look forward to working with you!
Young adults with intellectual and developmental disability labels are more capable, more fulfilled, and safer when parents support their empowerment. In this workshop, parents will explore how being an ally to their young adult’s independence can not only support individual development but also the strengthen relationships. Come learn skills and resources for supported decision-making and self-advocacy!
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“Nurturing Parenting for Families in Recovery”
2023-07-11 15:30 - 17:00 | Go-To Meeting
Register online at: https://kvcap-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcqd-yprDsoG9W2oUPOu4cXdgWARNTx_Zha or call Jenny at 207-859-2521
Held every Tuesday from 3:30–5 p.m.
If you are a parent, caregiver or working on your recovery and want to learn more about the effects of substance use on your family, parenting style, and your relationship with your child/youth, please join us for this FREE 17 week program. You will explore hands on activities, along with guided discussions to enhance your self-awareness and increase your ability to relate to your child/children in a safe and supportive environment surrounded by parents and caregivers who share similar life experiences. Join us to explore ideas and build skills; strengthen your connection with your child or youth!
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

July Wednesday Support Group
2023-07-05 13:00 - 14:30 | Go-To Meeting

June Evening Support Group
2023-06-27 19:30 - 20:30 | Go-To Meeting
You are NOT Alone! Parenting and raising a child/youth is often challenging, however even more so with a child with an emotional or behavioral health concern. Join us in this safe place with no shame, blame or judgment from the comfort of your home on your tablet or smart phone and chat with other parents who share similar life experiences. If you are a parent wanting support, or a parent/caregiver of a child with behavioral, emotional, or developmental health needs, please consider joining to meet and compare notes with other parents who truly understand the journey you are on. Note: Keep in mind that if there is no support group participation within 30 minutes of start time the virtual platform will be ended.

“Positive Behavioral Supports & Tantrum Management: Self-Preservation & Success in Parenting Children with Behavioral Health Needs”
2023-06-14 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
Do you sometimes feel like you don’t know how to help your child? Children with behavioral health needs do not come with a manual! This workshop will offer a framework to understand the nature of your child’s behavior and methods to flexibly respond to the needs your child presents. Positive behavioral supports emphasize practical ideas about how to meet your child where they are and utilize their motivation to increase success. Understanding and using Stage of Change concepts, maximizing provider involvement, and enhancing natural supports will be emphasized to provide usable tools that can be applied in a variety of real-life situations. Join us to learn more how to manage your child’s tantrums by using positive behavioral supports!
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

June Afternoon Support Group
2023-06-07 13:00 - 14:30 | Go-To Meeting
You are NOT Alone! Parenting and raising a child/youth is often challenging, however even more so with a child with an emotional or behavioral health concern. Join us in this safe place with no shame, blame or judgment from the comfort of your home on your tablet or smart phone and chat with other parents who share similar life experiences. If you are a parent wanting support, or a parent/caregiver of a child with behavioral, emotional, or developmental health needs, please consider joining to meet and compare notes with other parents who truly understand the journey you are on. Note: Keep in mind that if there is no support group participation within 30 minutes of start time the virtual platform will be ended.
Meets weekly….6/7, 6/14, 6/21 and 6/28

“What are Family Peer Specialists and how do they Support Maine Families?”
2023-06-06 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
The Family Peer Specialist (FPS) role has been in Maine to support families who have children/youth with special medical, emotional and behavioral health needs for over 25 years. During the past 10 years this role has quickly evolved to being one of not only providing emotional support and resource sharing to also reducing feelings of isolation by providing opportunities to learn from and support each other; build family protective factors, resiliency and strength; and practice vital parenting skills in an environment free from shame, blame and judgment. Join us to learn about the family organizations in Maine who offer you free parent peer support, the three levels of support, FPS role/credentialing and the benefits to the family and service delivery system when family peer specialists are utilized!
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“Summer Safety: Keeping it Cool, Preventing Heat Related Illness and Sun Safety for Children"
2023-06-05 18:00 - 20:00 | RSU Adult & Community Education , Bucksport High School 102 Broadway #1 and GOTO
Sunburn, heat cramps, heat stroke and skin cancer often are not thought of when you are enjoying the outdoors. Learn about the importance of keeping your children and yourself safe while having fun in the sun! Parents are welcomed in sharing their challenges and ideas how they deal with the sun protection and other summertime problems.
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“Recognizing the Signs of Suicide Risk and Navigating the System of Care”
2023-05-24 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
Suicide is a significant concern in Maine and nationwide, and we can do something about it. Join us in learning how to recognize early signs of potential elevated suicide risk, suicide statistics in Maine/Nationally; what risk assessments are and common terms you may hear providers use, in addition to navigating the system of care to effectively gain access to treatment and/or support that is needed. Also, we will discuss how to advocate for a person in your care when you are not satisfied with the process or outcome.
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

May Evening Support Group
2023-05-23 19:30 - 20:30 | Go-To Meeting

“What is Considered Child Abuse & Neglect in Maine?”
2023-05-22 18:00 - 20:00 | RSU Adult & Community Education , Bucksport High School 102 Broadway #1 and GOTO
Our children are our future and child abuse and neglect is everybody’s business! In this workshop learn what is considered child abuse; state and national statistics; what Maine law is and how to report child abuse or neglect; the difference between “punishment” vs. “discipline”; child behavioral management examples and what are family and child protective factors; in addition to sharing stories of parenting lessons learned.
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“ACEs, Being a Trauma-Informed Parent: Linking Childhood Trauma to Long-Term Health & Social Consequence”
2023-05-17 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
Traumatic childhood experiences such as abuse, neglect, domestic violence, or substance abuse in the home can have long-term physical, psychological, behavioral and economic consequences. The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study demonstrates the connection between childhood trauma and a wide array of physical & mental health problems. Despite the trauma in their lives, children can survive and even thrive. Protective factors, including healthy relationships with parents and caregivers, foster resilience in children and help them to overcome early adversity.
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

“What’s Your Parenting Style? Identifying Your Style and How it Affects Your Interaction with Your Children.
2023-05-15 15:00 - 17:00 | RSU Adult & Community Education , Bucksport High School 102 Broadway #1 and GOTO
This workshop is intended to help you learn and identify your current parenting style and recognize the large impact that it has on your child’s development. We will review each of the four parenting styles. Through sharing of information and discussion you will be given the tools to use to evaluate both positive and negative influences in your lives and how it relates to your parenting style. Parents and caregivers can improve their skills by having and understanding of parenting styles, discipline, cultural influences and environmental issues.
About the G.E.A.R. Parent Network
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, is the place where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents providing services for parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, G.E.A.R. Parent Network empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.
