Upcoming Parent Support

*The term “parent” as used in this context is inclusive of anyone who is actively involved in raising a child, whether it be biological parents, adoptive parents, guardians, or any other caretakers.

FAMILYSMART provides free one-on-one support for parents and caregivers. Sessions are available via video chat, phone, or email and can be scheduled as frequently as needed. The organization listens attentively to better understand what might help, offering resources and information within the community tailored to the family’s current needs. To book appointments click here or call (250) 940-6105.

♥ FAMILYSMART Connecting With Our Kids When Anxiety Leads to Social Isolation
When our kid’s anxiety leads to social isolation is hard for everyone. A parent and counsellor talk about what anxiety and social isolation are, what it can look like and feel like for our kids and at home, strategies families can try, and how important it is to connect with our children before doing the hard work of trying new things. Join us as we come together with other families to watch this video followed by a facilitated discussion.
April 17th at 6:00 pm at 2610 Rosebank Rd, Colwood RSVP: Lisa.Tate@FamilySmart.ca

If you can’t join us you can watch the video here

♥ FAMILYSMART – Understanding, Supporting and Connecting with Teens with Depression (online)
Mood roller coasters are a part of normal development for our teens, but sometimes something more is going on with their mental health. How can we tell the difference? At what point should we intervene, and how can we go about it? If you as a caregiver and feel lost about how to best support your teen struggling with Depression, you are not alone. Join Victoria Keddis, a parent with lived experience and Karen Peters, a mental health therapist who supports children, teens and families, for a discussion about understanding how depression shows up in teens and ways of journeying with them through it.
Dates: April 11, 23, 25  Register Here

♥ THE YMCA-YWCA MINDFULNESS GROUPS are a free, weekly educational support group for teens 13-18 and young adults 18-30 experiencing stress, worries and anxiety. Participants learn healthy coping skills through mindfulness, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and Self-Compassion to navigate their anxiety, connect with other young people and receive support all in a safe and supportive community environment. The program is designed to provide tools and support for those who experience mild to moderate anxiety. New sessions beginning in April and May 2024, email mindfulness@vancouverislandy.ca