Gear Parent Network

Summer Safety: Keeping it Cool! Preventing Heat Related Illness and Sun Safety for Children
2024-06-03 13:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | 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, 2024-09-11 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-09-18 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-09-25 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

Recognizing the Signs of Suicide Risk and Navigating the System of Care
2024-09-12 12:30 - 14:30 | Boys and Girls Club of Bangor, 28 Downeast Circle, Bangor, ME, 04401, United States
Suicide is a significant concern in Maine and nationwide, and we can do something about it. Join us in learning how to recognize early signs of potentially elevated suicide risk, suicide statistics in Maine/Nationally, what risk assessments are, and common terms you may hear providers use, in addition to navigating the system of care to gain access to treatment and support that is needed effectively. Also, we will discuss how to advocate for a person in your care when you are not satisfied with the process or outcome.
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.

“It’s So Much Work to Be Your Friend: Helping the Child with Learning Disabilities Find Social Success” by Author Rick Lavoie, M.A., M.Ed.
2024-09-12 13:00 - 15:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
Are you concerned that your child has no 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 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/tJMocu-rqT0oEtXsp4r-c3ZNbqBtH4yKlL8A

What’s Your Parenting Style? Identifying Your Style and How it Affects Your Interaction with Your Children.
2024-09-14 10:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
This workshop is intended to help you learn and identify your current parenting style and recognize its large impact on your child’s development. We will review each of the four parenting styles. Through information sharing and discussion, you will be given the tools to evaluate positive and negative influences in your lives and how they relate to your parenting style. Parents and caregivers can improve their skills by understanding parenting styles, discipline, cultural influences, and environmental issues.
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/tJMudeGrrTkoE9D7zInk-ga01roBQkazpLm-

Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD
2024-09-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
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 seven times higher in New Hampshire than 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 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/tJEvfuqoqDIqGdHAMrD6SgBVzpEz9dLq5dg0

Parent Support Group
2024-10-02 13:00 - 14:30 | Zoom
REGISTER NOW
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 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/tJ0vd-GhqTgoGN3HN4ps2tFbq-2AP0I7_c_g

Success in Co-Parenting and Blended Families
2024-10-07 16:00 - 18:00 | 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/tJAkdemsrTwoG9BIQGPtY4pXEIVbB0WanP3D
