Gear Parent Network

Do You Speak Teen? ‘mnE Ps dnt bleev der is a gNR8N d/c b/t em n thr teen”
2024-03-12 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | 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.

Parenting with Dignity-Picking up This Ball Is a Victory for All
2024-03-09 09:00 - 15:00 | Go-To Meeting
March 9 and 16, 2024 from 9 a.m – 3 p.m.
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:
Day 1: A Model of Human Performance and Five Rules for Parents
Day 1: Discipline, Deciding what you Want-Part 1 and 2
Day 1 & 2: Sending a Constant Message of Love – Part 1 and 2
Day 2: Teaching Your Values to Your Kids and Goal Setting
Day 2: The Reasons Punishment Doesn’t Work
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.

March Support Group
2024-03-06 13:00 - 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.

ACEs, Being a Trauma-Informed Parent: Linking Childhood Trauma to Long-Term Health & Social Consequence
2024-03-05 18:00 - 20:00 | 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.
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.

Last One Picked – First One Picked On: Learning Disabilities and Social Skills
2024-02-26 18:00 - 20:00 | Go-To Meeting
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.”

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
2024-02-22 18:00 - 20:00 | 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.

Success in Co-Parenting and Blending Families
2024-02-17 09:00 - 12:00 | Go-To Meeting
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.

Engaging Together: A Collaboration for Family Success
2024-02-13 17:00 - 18:00 | Go-To Meeting
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!

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

ADHD 101 - What We Want to Know but Forgot to Ask!
2024-02-08 13:00 - 15:00 | Go-To Meeting
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 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.

February Support Group
2024-02-07 13:00 - 14:30

Disaster Preparedness 101: Families Prepare & Empower Themselves to Persevere Through Traumatic Events and Unexpected Disaster
2024-02-05 18:00 - 20:00 | RSU Adult & Community Education , Bucksport High School 102 Broadway #1 and GOTO
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 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.

Disaster Preparedness 101: Families Prepare & Empower Themselves to Persevere Through Traumatic Events and Unexpected Disaster
2024-01-25 18:00 - 20:00 | Go-To Meeting

The Motivation Breakthrough: Six Secrets to Turning on the Tuned Out Child
2024-01-17 18:00 - 20:00 | Go-To Meeting
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, 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
2024-01-17 10:00 - 12:00 | 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.

Positive Behavioral Supports & Tantrum Management: Self-Preservation & Success in Parenting Children with Behavioral Health Needs
2024-01-16 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. Temper tantrums are disruptive behavior or emotional outbursts displayed in response to unmet needs or desires. Come and learn 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.

Defusing Challenging Behaviors: How to Effectively De-Escalate Your Child
2024-01-11 18:00 - 20:00 | 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!

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.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Oh, My!
2024-01-09 18:00 - 20:00 | Go-To Meeting
Are you raising a second set of children or youth at a time you thought you would be planning your retirement? This discussion will focus on specific issues that may be challenging for grandparents today and uncover ideas and solutions for greater success and less stress.
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.

Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD
2024-01-08 18:00 - 20:00 | RSU Adult & Community Education , Bucksport High School 102 Broadway #1 and GOTO
Seasonal Affective Disorder can impact adults, teens, and children. It is estimated about 5% of the people experience SAD in the US and 4 out of 5 are women. One US study found rates of SAD were 7 times higher in New Hampshire then in California suggesting the farther we are from the equator, the more likely we are to develop Seasonal Affective Disorder. Join us for an educational and STRESS-LESS evening learning about SAD and how to deal with it.

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.

Building Stronger Families Through Effective Communication
2024-01-08 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.

January Support Group
2024-01-03 13:00 - 14:30 | Go-To Meeting

Nurturing Parenting for Families in Recovery
2024-01-02 15:30 - 17:00 | Go-To Meeting
Held virtually every Tuesday afternoon 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 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://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScpgJNGN2rk5Jn9mEZ4PlBDEKqv9IBGf_Pjks6ToNqjQJLIow/viewform or call Megan Dickinson at 207-859-1580.

“Ho-Ho-Ho! Holiday Family Scavenger Hunt!!”
2023-12-14 19:00 - 20:00 | Go-To Meeting
We will be joining you virtually with our family in having fun celebrating the season with an old fashioned scavenger hunt. Each family will be provided a list of items to find around your home and a time frame to complete the hunt. So gather your family and join us in having some laughs and fun!” Note: You must pre-register for this workshop as there will be gift card giveaways!
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.
2023-12-12 18:00 - 20:00 | Go-To Meeting
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 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.

Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD
2023-12-07 18:00 - 20:00 | Go-To Meeting

Ho-Ho-Ho Holiday Fun! Creating a Cookie Jar Mix Gift
2023-12-06 16:00 - 17:00 | Coastal Recovery Community Center, 11 White Street, Rockland or GOTO
Whip up a homemade gift from the kitchen to show family and friends you truly care! Join us for this evening of fun and create a cookie jar mix to take home with you as a gift for that special someone. Personalize your jar by adding a tag and a simple ribbon or bow for a one of a kind touch. G.E.A.R. will provide the dry mix supplies and some decorative items. Please do feel free to bring a quart wide mouth canning jar or decorative items from home.
Note: You must pre-register for this workshop.
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.

Ho-Ho-Ho Holiday Fun! Decorative Handprint Christmas Trees!
2023-12-06 15:00 - 17:00 | Ginny’s Natural Corner, 217 North Ave in Skowhegan, 217 North Ave
Bring your kids and join us and our local youth group in creating easy handprint Christmas tree designs for the holidays! All supplies necessary will be provided. Let’s have fun together, be creative and leave you with a little personalized memory to hold on to or create a personal gift to give this holiday season!
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.

December Support Group
2023-12-06 13:00 - 14:30 | 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.

Ho-Ho-Ho Holiday Fun! Creating Ornaments!
2023-12-02 13:00 - 15:00 | Go-To Meeting
Join us for creating easy ornament designs for the holidays by recycling your old ornaments! Use any items or materials you wish to use that may be used such as: wrapping paper and ribbon, pictures, wrapping tissue paper, hair ribbons, beads, glitter, sequins and liquid glue. Let’s have fun together, be creative and leave you with a little personalized memory to hold on to or create a personal gift to give this holiday season!
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.

Parenting with Dignity-Picking up This Ball Is a Victory for All
2023-11-28 18:00 - 21:00 | Go-To Meeting
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:
Session 1: A Model of Human Performance and Five Rules for Parents – Tuesday, November 28, 2023 from 6-9 p.m.
Session 2: Discipline, Deciding what you Want-Part 1 and 2 – Wednesday, November 29, 2023 from 6-9 p.m.
Session 3: Sending a Constant Message of Love – Part 1 and 2 – Monday, December 4, 2023 from 6-9 p.m.
Session 4: Teaching Your Values to Your Kids and Goal Setting – Wednesday, December 6, 2023 from 6-9 p.m.
Session 5: The Reasons Punishment Doesn’t Work – Wednesday, December 13, 2023 from 6-8 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.

November Support Group
2023-11-15 13:00 - 14:30 | Go-To Meeting
