Gear Parent Network

Support Group
2025-02-19 13:00 - 14:30, 2025-02-26 13:00 - 14:30, 2025-03-05 08:00 - 17:00, 2025-03-12 13:00 - 14:30, 2025-03-19 13:00 - 14:30, 2025-03-26 13:00 - 14:30 (America/New_York) | Zoom
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For parents or caregivers of children/youth with emotional or behavioral health concerns, it is held virtually on Wednesdays from 1-2:30 p.m.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Kennebec Behavioral Health, is where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents and supports parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, the 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0vd-GhqTgoGN3HN4ps2tFbq-2AP0I7_c_g

Building Stronger Families Through Effective Communication
2025-02-25 18:00 - 20:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
Effective communication skills are vitally important for thriving family relationships. Using tools such as non-violent and non-verbal communication can improve our ability to resolve conflicts that arise and strengthen bonds within families. As parents, we can master these skills and model them for our children. Join us in learning the various strategies that are at the heart of good communication.

The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Kennebec Behavioral Health program, is where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents and supports parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, the 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJEqf-ispz0rGtBx2WOH-4K6uHSi8hWKFGtx

Perspectives on Youth with Problematic Sexual Behavior
2025-03-06 18:00 - 19:30 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW[/button
Join us in addressing the prevalence of child sexual abuse, problematic sexual behaviors, prevention, and safety. In this workshop we will define problematic sexual behaviors and why they occur, treatment, safety, and hope for the future.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJUvfumqqzIpHNdSizQb9wobbN34FIPwtPbS

Sexual Behavior – Age Appropriate vs. Potentially Problematic Sexual Behavior in Youth
2025-03-10 18:00 - 19:30 | Zoom
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Join us in addressing the prevalence of child sexual abuse, problematic sexual behaviors, prevention, and safety. In this workshop we will learn what behaviors to expect at different ages and how to respond to concerning behavior.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJArdeygrD0jGNSKF0HNBoVdrZjY12FXHNWd

Success in Co-Parenting and Blended Families
2025-03-12 17:30 - 19:30 | Bangor Housing Boys and Girls Club, 161 Davis Rd, Bangor
This is an in person only workshop. You will not get an confirmation email when you register. Please sign in when you arrive at the venue.
Co-parenting can be very stressful and emotional. Join us to learn more about what some blended families encounter such as significant parenting differences, having false expectations as to what the relationships and family life will look like, how to manage the emotions and work on challenges, as well as seek outside help when needed. We will discuss ways to create a more unified and harmonious family unit truly setting your family up for success to ensure the best outcomes for your children.
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 Consequences
2025-03-20 13:00 - 15:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW[/butt
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.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMkduqtqjwrE9Uatrne0B-GmpAsX3WzpV3N

Understanding Substance Use Disorder and Stigma Effects!
2025-03-30 10:00 - 13:00 | Zoom
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Know the Facts! Substance use among youth and young adults is at its highest level. This disease can cause or increase mental and physical health related issues and can lead to problems at school, home, and work. It can put our youth at risk for involvement with the correctional system or worst of all, lead to loss of life. Substance Use Disorder (SUD) impacts the entire family. This special extended workshop will explore local and national statistics, risk factors, and the effects of SUD on the brain and polysubstance use. A video will be shared, “Pleasure Unwoven” a personal journey about addiction by Kevin McCauley. He turns complex neuroscientific concepts into easy, understandable virtual images that helps explain why SUD is a disease. Also discussed are protective factors, the social and mental impact of stigma and how we can help. This information can be used to start these important conversations with our children and youth. Our kids and young adults are our future, so it is critically important that parents, family and community members truly understand this disease and know that recovery is possible! Do not wait to get started!
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Kennebec Behavioral Health, is where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents and supports parents of children with emotional and behavioral health concerns.
Through parent-to-parent sharing of experiences and knowledge, the 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session:https://kbhmaine-org.zoom.us/j/93920223733?pwd=[REDACTED]

Support Group
2025-04-03 13:00 - 14:00, 2025-04-09 13:00 - 14:00, 2025-04-16 13:00 - 14:00, 2025-04-23 13:00 - 14:00, 2025-04-30 13:00 - 14:00, 2025-05-07 13:00 - 14:00, 2025-05-14 13:00 - 14:00, 2025-05-21 13:00 - 14:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW[/butt
For parents or caregivers of children/youth with emotional or behavioral health concerns. This group is held on Zoom every Wednesday from 1-2p.m
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session: https://kbhmaine-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0vd-GhqTgoGN3HN4ps2tFbq-2AP0I7_c_g

“What’s Your Parenting Style? Identifying Your Style and How it Affects Your Interaction with Your Children”
2025-04-09 17:30 - 19:00 | Bangor Housing Opportunity Center, 161 Davis Rd, Bangor
This Event Is In Person Only!
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.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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 Consequences”
2025-05-05 13:00 - 15:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW[/butt

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.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session: https://kbhmaine-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/5dd5tNmdQ7G3uaAFKF_hyQ

“Reactive Attachment Disorder/RAD”
2025-05-08 10:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
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Join us for this special Children’s Mental Health Action Week event, where Dr. Walker will discuss the implications of making a home for an Attachment Disordered child. He will discuss the effects of such a placement on the environment of the family and the implications of RAD on the parenting methods that must be employed in an effort to help the child overcome the effects of their early life trauma. Dr. Walker believes that by increasing your understanding of the true nature of the deficits caused by early life trauma, parents can more easily address those needs and by doing so, improve the climate within their families.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.

Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session:https://kbhmaine-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/F_1zbGqOQz6xI28CA24ADQ

“Defusing Challenging Behaviors: How to Effectively De-escalate Your Child”
2025-05-10 10:00 - 13:00 | Zoom
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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 remain calm and use different techniques that can help defuse a situation before it gets worse!
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.

Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session:https://kbhmaine-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/KedAr-orSLSiVmU1x5Xthg

“Family Yoga”
2025-05-14 17:30 - 19:00 | Bangor Housing Opportunity Center, 161 Davis Rd, Bangor
This Event Is in Person Only!
Join us for this special Children’s Mental Health Acceptance Month Activity! This is a wonderful opportunity for family members of all ages to have some fun together and bond. Yoga is a great way to practice self-care, and has numerous mental health benefits, including stress reduction, anxiety relief, depression management, improved sleep, increased mindfulness, enhanced emotional regulation, increased self-esteem, and overall well-being. Bring the whole family! (Please dress comfortably in clothing that you can move around in)
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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”
2025-06-11 17:30 - 19:00 | Bangor Housing Opportunity Center, 161 Davis Rd, Bangor
This Event Is In Person Only!
Sunburn, heat cramps, heat stroke and skin cancer often are not thought of when you are enjoying the outdoors. Come learn about the importance of keeping your children and yourself safe while having fun in the sun! Parents may share their challenges and some ideas how they deal with the sun protection and summertime issues.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.

"Parenting with Dignity-Picking up This Ball Is a Victory for All”
2025-07-09 15:30 - 17:00 | Bangor Housing Opportunity Center, 161 Davis Rd, Bangor
This Event Is In Person Only!
This workshop runs Wednesdays July 9-September 10, 2025 3:30pm-5pm
G.E.A.R. Parent Network invites you to pick up the ball and run with it through a multi-part parenting education course developed by Mac Bledsoe, father of a celebrated New England Patriots’ quarterback Drew Bledsoe. Parenting with Dignity helps parents learn effective techniques for raising responsible, independent children. Topics include:
A Model of Human Performance and Five Rules for Parents
Discipline, Deciding what you Want
Sending a Constant Message of Love
Teaching Your Values to Your Kids and Goal Setting
The Reasons Punishment Doesn’t Work.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.
Space is limited so registration is required

“It’s So Much Work to Be Your Friend: Helping the Child with Learning Disabilities Find Social Success”
2025-07-16 12:00 - 14:00 | Zoom
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Are you concerned that your child has few friends? Do you watch your child struggle with social isolation and rejection? This workshop will identify specific reasons why children with learning disabilities have difficulty with social interaction. Parents and caregivers will learn practical strategies to assist children in gaining peer acceptance and developing age appropriate social skills.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.

Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session:https://kbhmaine-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/3Gr8oZD3QZC8A0-22piBoA

“G.E.A.R. Annual Family Picnic”
2025-08-03 11:00 - 14:30 | Lake George Regional Park, 10 Main Street, Canaan, 04924, United States
Lake George Regional Park, East Side, Route 2, 10 Main St., Canaan -In person only
Lake George Regional Park is a family-friendly park that offers swimming, hiking, boating and fishing. GEAR is covering the entrance fee for families and kids to come and join us for this fun and relaxing social event! We are located on the west side of the park on a large peninsula with three sides of water where the picnic will be. This park offers swimming from a sandy beach or a rocky shore and is a great relaxing place to enjoy the sun or shade! A light picnic buffet lunch will be provided and picnic tables are available but please bring your lawn chairs or blankets for additional seating. If you have special dietary needs please do bring your own lunch. Don’t forget your beach apparel, towels and sunscreen! There are no lifeguards on duty so parents are responsible for watching their kids. Registration is required. Upon entering the park let the person at the gate know that you are here for the GEAR picnic and your admission will be covered by GEAR.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.

“ADHD 101 - What We Want to Know but Forgot to Ask!”
2025-08-12 18:00 - 20:00 | Zoom
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Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder and one of the most common mental health disorders affecting children ‘s behavior. This workshop will offer the framework to help us understand what Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is, what causes it, and who can diagnose it; the symptoms, what helps, the treatment and management of ADHD. Come and join in the conversation as we journey together toward greater success.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Kennebec Behavioral Health, 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.

Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost educational session:https://kbhmaine-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/d97oAgEJTpyKat0i81omRA
