Gear Parent Network

“Reactive Attachment Disorder/RAD”
2025-05-08 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | 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

Support Group
2025-05-14 13:00 - 14:00, 2025-05-21 13:00 - 14:00 | Zoom
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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

“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

Family Fun Beach Day!
2025-08-17 11:00 - 14:30 | Morgan’s Beach Route 155, Enfield-Lincoln Rd, Enfield, Route 155, Enfield, ME, 04493, United States
Morgan’s Beach Route 155, Enfield-Lincoln Rd, Enfield-In person only
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 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.

“Impulsivity & Disruptive Behaviors in Children & Youth”
2025-09-11 10:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
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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 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/7GCkw559RCqMRJKuWv-WKw

Take Action Against Bullying
2025-10-14 11:00 - 12:30 | The Opportunity Center, 161 Davis Rd Bangor
This is an in person event only
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 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.

Nurturing Parenting for Families in Recovery
2025-11-04 15:30 - 17:00 | Zoom
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!
Tuesday afternoons from 3:30 – 5:00 p.m. Link to register: https://forms.gle/xT1y8T9uZVShR89P9 or call Megan Dickinson at 207-859-1580
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.

Youth Tobacco and Substance Use and What We Can Do About It
2025-11-13 16:00 - 17:30 | Zoom
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We will explore the latest data on youth tobacco and substance use from the Maine Integrated Youth Health Survey (MIYHS), learn about the effects of these substances on brain development, learn how to answer tough questions from a child about substance use, and more!
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/ZJNpPTWGRTGNzAZvB6RzGw

Managing Stress During the Holidays
2025-11-18 11:00 - 12:30 | The Opportunity Center, 161 Davis Rd Bangor
This is an in person event only
The holiday season will quickly be here! While it is meant to bring feelings of love and cheer, it’s also the harbinger of much stress for many of us. Join us and learn a few simple tips you could try to help reduce holiday stress before it begins so that it remains at a positive level rather than an overwhelming one.
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.

Ho-Ho-Ho! Holiday Family Activities!
2025-12-09 18:00 - 19:30 | The Opportunity Center, 161 Davis Rd Bangor
This is an in person only event.
Join us as we celebrate the season with some holiday fun activities that the whole family can enjoy, so gather your family and join us in having some fun!”
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.

What is a CCBHC – What you need to know
2025-12-10 10:00 - 11:30 | Zoom
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Did you know that Maine currently has a new service delivery model called CCBHC (Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic)? Come learn all about it and how they improve individuals access to mental health and substance use services. Perhaps you are in one now? Come learn more about this model.
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/38GeTHGrQe-XgAY2A_MQzw

Disaster Preparedness 101: Families Prepare & Empower Themselves to Persevere Through Traumatic Events and Unexpected Disaster
2025-12-11 10:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
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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 in times of unexpected disaster. Participants will learn how to become prepared, engage their communities and emergency teams to effectively respond to the unique health and well-being needs of their children and youth. You will learn begin to plan and prepare for an emergency evacuation and learn strategies to make the unforeseen event more bearable and less traumatic.
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/MxJkUFNxS1W8_ibFjCmtXQ

Ho-Ho-Ho Holiday Family Movie Night with your Kids!
2025-12-12 18:00 - 19:30 | Zoom
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Moms, dads, grandparents and kids of all ages! Join us for a family holiday movie night! Kids, wear your PJ’s and cuddle up with your favorite toy, pillow and blanket and join us in watching a classic holiday movie together
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/CdMZKUvpSpWPy1WESTyEYw
