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 […]

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 […]

Are you feeling like you are always walking on eggshells when dealing with your young child’s meltdowns? (Professionals sometimes call these behaviors “dysregulation”) Are you at a loss about how to help your child to be successful? You’re not alone! Join in the discussion about what meltdowns are and strategies that can be used to […]

This video workshop explores proven techniques, strategies and scripts - based on six possible motivational styles - that will revolutionize the way teachers and parents inspire children to succeed and achieve. Rick Lavoie explodes common myths and gives specific advice for motivating children   The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program of Crisis & Counseling Centers, […]

When disaster strikes will you be ready? Flooding, blizzards, high wind, and intense storms with power outages are common disasters in Maine. This workshop focuses on the reactions and needs of children and adolescents in times of unexpected disaster – even a pandemic. This workshop focuses on the reactions and needs of children and adolescents […]

When disaster strikes will you be ready? Flooding, blizzards, high wind, and intense storms with power outages are common disasters in Maine. This workshop focuses on the reactions and needs of children and adolescents in times of unexpected disaster – even a pandemic. This workshop focuses on the reactions and needs of children and adolescents […]

held virtually every Wednesday from 1-2:30 p.m. 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 […]

This workshop will offer the framework to help us understand what Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is, what causes it, how to diagnose and who can diagnose it; the symptoms, what helps, supports; and treatment and management. Come and join in the conversation as we journey together toward greater success.   The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a program […]

Join the conversation with GEAR Parent Network and Maine Parent Federation as we explore the transformative power of shared responsibility in family engagement. Discover strategies to connect schools, community agencies, and organizations with families in meaningful ways. Uncover insights, foster authentic connections, and contribute to the collective success of our communities in this dynamic webinar! […]

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 […]

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 […]

Do you watch your child struggle with social isolation and rejection? This workshop will provide parents, caregivers, and teachers with strategies for teaching our kids the social skills they will need for success in social interaction. Participants will learn about positive traits for peer acceptance, student traits that teachers like, and the “hidden curriculum.”   […]