Gear Parent Network

19th Annual Children’s Mental Health Acceptance Tailgate Kickoff Event!
2024-05-06 14:30 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Crisis and Counseling Centers 10 Caldwell Rd Augusta
Join us again this year for our Children’s Mental Health Acceptance Week Tailgate Kick-Off event which is organized by parents to bring acceptance about the importance of social justice and to show that positive mental health is essential our kids healthy development throughout their lifespan. Hear parents and youth share their lived experience of their paths to social justice & resilience! (no rain date will be held)
We are also distributing Advocacy Toolkits to children’s mental health providers and educators statewide. The kits will contain acceptance materials to display and distribute so you may join us in lighting the path to social justice for children and youth! If you cannot attend you may print resources here https://gearparentnetwork.org/cmhm/ or call 1-800-264-9224 to order your CMHA toolkit.

Diversity & Inclusion: Gaining Awareness of Individualization
2024-05-08 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
Join us for this special Children’s Mental Health Acceptance presentation that you will find informative and enlightening about the person-centered approach to living! All individuals have a unique potential to live meaningful, purposeful lives. Let’s learn how to become more aware of accepting individuals for who they are, what their vision & goals are and honor them where they’re at in their individualized process of enhancing their lives.
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.

Reactive Attachment Disorder/RAD
2024-05-10 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
Robert is an adoptive parent of two special needs children (now adults). Dr. Walker has almost forty years of experience training and supporting parents and professionals in the areas of adoption, foster care, and attachment related trauma. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, and a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling. His Ph.D. work focused on communication, attachment, and emotion in biological and non-biological family systems. His dissertation research examined the effects of dysregulated children on their biological and non-biological families and their family environments.
Join us for this special Children’s Mental Health Acceptance 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, fairly rapidly improve the climate within their families.

Building Stronger Families Through Effective Communication
2024-05-13 13:00 - 15:00 | Go-To Meeting
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 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.

Positive Behavioral Supports & Tantrum Management: Self-Preservation & Success in Parenting Children with Behavioral Health Needs
2024-05-13 18:00 - 20:00 | RSU Adult & Community Education , Bucksport High School 102 Broadway #1 and GOTO
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!
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.

Youth Substance Use Disorder
2024-05-15 10:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
KNOW the facts! Substance use with overdose among our youth and young adults in Maine is at its highest level. Knowledge is power so please join us for this presentation on why does it happen in youth and how does it affect our youth, the risk factors; what to look for, what to do about it along with treatment and supports. This information can be used to inform yourself and to begin these important conversations with your children and 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.

Discovering Tomorrow’s Leaders! Youth Leadership: 101
2024-05-16 18:00 - 19:30 | Go-To Meeting
Join Disability Rights Maine’s Youth Self-Advocacy Team in an activity-based Leadership Training! We will explore what makes influential leaders successful, practice strategies become leaders in our everyday life, and set goals to start thinking about the future! Young Mainers aged 14-25 encouraged to attend! Our training provides several opportunities for discussion to build connection between participants and will offer several opportunities to connect after our training ends. Check out our growing community of self-advocates on Instagram @ysap_drm or on faceboom.com/DRM-YouthSelfAdvocacy
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.

Surviving Parenting: Self-Care is NEVER Selfish
2024-05-20 18:00 - 20:00 | Go-To Meeting
Self-care often becomes an afterthought for parents and caregivers. The ability to treat and understand oneself with respect and kindness can be especially elusive when raising a family. In this workshop, you will learn how stress and anxiety affect all of us and what you can do about it. You will do a self-care checkup and tools will be shared to create positive thinking. Join us to discover how to cope when your life is full but your energy tank is running on empty.
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.

Impulsivity & Disruptive Behaviors in Children & Youth
2024-05-23 12:30 - 14:30 | Capehart Boys and Girls Clubhouse, 28 Downeast Circle, Bangor
All children and youth have outbursts from time to time, however some do have much difficulty in their ability to regulate their emotions and behaviors even when adverse consequences may occur. This lack of self-control can cause significant distress or impairment in a child’s or youth’s life. A number of different diagnoses are unified by impulsive and disruptive behaviors including oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), conduct disorder (CD), and impulse control disorder (ICD). In this workshop you will learn more about the disorders defined in the chapter on disruptive, impulse-control, and conduct disorders by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), what treatments are available, and what parents/caregivers can do to better respond to impulsive and disruptive behavior.
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
2024-06-03 13:00 - 15:00 | 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. 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 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 Support Group
2024-06-05 13:00 - 2024-06-26 14:30 | Go-To Meeting
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 empowers parents of children with behavioral health needs to build on their family’s strengths and to advocate for their family’s needs.

Non-Toxic Housekeeping Class
2024-06-06 13:00 - 15:00 | Capehart Boys and Girls Clubhouse, 28 Downeast Circle, Bangor
From air fresheners to window and floor cleaners and beyond, many everyday cleaning supplies can be hazardous to the health of you and your family. Save money and reduce your family’s exposure from toxic household cleaners! Join us and learn how to avoid using toxic cleaning chemicals and still provide a clean, healthy and comfortable home; how to save money and time with simple cleaning techniques; easy and inexpensive recipes to make safe and effective homemade household cleaners.
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.

Helping Your Child Manage Their Meltdowns
2024-06-13 13:00 - 15:00 | Go-To Meeting
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 help your child better manage these meltdowns.
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
2024-07-02 15:30 - 17:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
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 12-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/youth 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!
Register online at https://forms.gle/7mDnUPLNiCg5QWaFA or call Megan Dickinson at 207-859-1580.

Parent Support Group
2024-07-03 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-07-17 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-08-07 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-08-21 13:00 - 14:30 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
For parents or caregivers of children/youth with emotional or behavioral health concerns, it is held virtually the first and third Wednesday of each month (for July & August only) from 1-2:30 p.m. and in September, will return to every week Wednesdays 1-2:30 p.m.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost support group: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJwqdOutrDkrHt02ZK1Jdux_Na_ywH7nMPQe

Take Action Against Bullying
2024-07-03 16:00 - 18:00 | Boys and Girls Club of Bangor, 28 Downeast Circle, Bangor, ME, 04401, United States
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.

Surviving Parenting: Self-Care is NEVER Selfish
2024-07-10 14:30 - 16:30 | Boys and Girls Club of Bangor, 28 Downeast Circle, Bangor, ME, 04401, United States
Self-care often becomes an afterthought for parents and caregivers. The ability to treat and understand oneself with respect and kindness can be especially elusive when raising a family. In this workshop, you will learn how stress and anxiety affect all of us and what you can do about it. You will do a self-care checkup and tools will be shared to create positive thinking. Join us to discover how to cope when your life is full but your energy is running on empty.

ADHD 101 - What We Want to Know but Forgot to Ask!
2024-07-10 18:00 - 20:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
This workshop will offer a framework to help us understand Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, its causes, how to diagnose it, who can diagnose it, its symptoms, what helps and supports it, and treatment and management. Come and join the conversation as we journey together toward greater success.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Crisis & Counseling Centers’ program, is where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents and provides services for 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/tJAocOisqjgvE9EORTXeADBfTbb6zQTiB-v5#/registration

G.E.A.R. Annual Family Picnic
2024-07-13 11:00 - 14:00 | Lake George Regional Park, 10 Main Street, Canaan, 04924, United States
Lake George Regional Park in Canaan is a family-friendly park that offers swimming, hiking, boating, and fishing. Free entrance (the Ranger @ entrance will have your registration) for families and kids to come and join us for this fun and relaxing social event! We are located on the park’s west side 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 bring your own lunch. We will have fun activities for both kids and adults alike! Don’t forget your beach apparel, towels, and sunscreen! No lifeguards are on duty, so parents are responsible for watching their kids, and you may stay the entire day.
Registration is required, and admission is free. The rain date is Saturday, July 20, 2024.

“How Difficult Can This Be? The F.A.T. City Workshop” Video Presentation by Author Rick Lavoie, M.A., M.Ed.
2024-08-01 10:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
This unique and interactive program allows participants to experience the 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 how it changed their approach to children with learning disabilities.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Crisis & Counseling Centers 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/tJMkceihrDwjEtR1NQfu9mAUbSAwj8bq4Ni3#/registration

Success in Co-Parenting and Blending Families
2024-08-05 18:00 - 20:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
Co-parenting can be very stressful and emotional. Join us to learn more about what some blended families encounter, such as significant parenting differences, false expectations as to what the relationships and family life will look like, how to manage emotions and work on challenges, and how to 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 Crisis & Counseling Centers 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/tJEldeCpqzstGtAWA15i3A6HaatTmmTUy5Oy

“The Motivation Breakthrough: Six Secrets to Turning on the Tuned Out Child” by Author Rick Lavoie, M.A., M.Ed.
2024-08-07 10:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
This video workshop explores proven techniques, strategies, and scripts – based on six possible motivational styles – that will revolutionize how 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 Crisis & Counseling Centers 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/tJUtcu2rrjkvE9E2eQpwSKXh0jnJ6P3M3dHP

ADHD 101 – What We Want to Know but Forgot to Ask!
2024-08-08 12:30 - 14:30 | Zoom
This workshop will offer a framework to help us understand Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, its causes, how to diagnose it, who can diagnose it, its symptoms, what helps and supports it, and treatment and management. Come and join the conversation as we journey together toward greater success.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Crisis & Counseling Centers’ program, is where Gaining Empowerment Allows Results. G.E.A.R. is run by parents for parents and provides services for 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.

Basic Advocacy! How to advocate for what your kids need!
2024-08-17 09:00 - 11:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
What does it mean to be a good advocate? Many parents and caregivers have faced challenges in getting their child’s or youth’s behavioral health and educational needs met. It is important to have your heart in the right place, but it is only the beginning. Knowing that the advocacy process doesn’t need to be confrontational is also important. Learning to communicate and advocate effectively with service providers, doctors, and teachers is one of the best ways to ensure your child’s needs are met. You can have ongoing, collaborative, and constructive relationships with others. Developing your advocacy skills is the next step to forming your own strategies for solving problems, resolving conflicts, and becoming a more effective advocate.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Crisis & Counseling Centers 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/tJ0td-mgrTktE9ZjUbGMZAtIv3nhb1rZAvCS

Do You Speak Teen? ‘mnE Ps dnt bleev der is a gNR8N d/c b/t em n thr teen
2024-08-26 18:00 - 20:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
Communicating with teens today is more challenging than ever, but not impossible! This workshop will explore modern technology and give you new ideas for peeking 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 Crisis & Counseling Centers 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/tJckcu2pqjgqHdweINcLyOgCUX-Y1FJG9PVb

Parent Support Group
2024-09-04 13:00 - 14:30 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
For parents or caregivers of children/youth with emotional or behavioral health concerns, it is held virtually the first and third Wednesday of each month (for July & August only) from 1-2:30 p.m. and in September, will return to every week Wednesdays 1-2:30 p.m.
Follow the link to register to join us for this no-cost support group: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0vd-GhqTgoGN3HN4ps2tFbq-2AP0I7_c_g

What Disabilities Qualify for Special Education Under IDEA?
2024-09-09 18:00 - 20:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
This workshop will provide an overview of children’s disabilities, special education qualifying conditions under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and possible accommodations to make your child’s school experience successful. We also will review local and statewide resources available to your child and family.
The G.E.A.R. Parent Network, a Crisis & Counseling Centers 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/tJMqfuqtrj8vH9AwU7n4Wr6yvQx2imciWftZ
