Connecting for Kids provides education and support to families with concerns about their child. It serves all families, including those children with and without formal diagnoses. Each month, it is offering Zoom educational programs, support groups, a Parent Match Program and other resources.
Registration is required for these programs. Register online: www.connectingforkids.org/register, via email: [email protected] or Call/Text: 440-570-5908, para español 440-907-9130.
Register and you will be emailed information about how to join the program using the free Zoom app or by calling in using a toll-free number.
May 4
Virtual Speaker Series: Five Things Transracial Families Need to Know to Thrive
Do you have a beautiful family that was formed through transracial adoption? Are you looking for ways for your child to form a strong racial identity as well as a strong family bond? Join Krysia Orlowski, Volunteer Parent Coordinator, and Donikea Austin, Program Manager of Adoption Network Cleveland as they walk us through tips that families formed by transracial adoption need to thrive. The presenters will open the program to Q&A and offer strategies to help with the specific struggles families are experiencing. 7-8 p.m.
This program is for adults only and the educational portion of this program will be recorded. This program is presented in partnership with Westlake Porter Public Library.
May 5
Virtual Anxiety and Attention Series: Helping the Child who Struggles with Transition
Long summer days, no homework and a break from the routine. Even though your elementary-aged child may be looking forward to summer, the transition from the structure of school can be a rocky one. Join Rob Adams, PsyD, a licensed clinical psychologist at Meghan Barlow and Associates, as he provides practical strategies to make the end of the year a positive, stress-free time for your child. Join the community of families with elementary-aged children who struggle with attention and anxiety. 7-8 p.m.
This program is presented in partnership with Westlake Porter Public Library. This program is for adults only and the educational portion will be recorded.
May 6
Virtual Speaker Series: Concerned? Ask Us!: Exploring Lorain County Resources and Your Grab & Go Bag
Are you overwhelmed with the need to find therapies and academic programs to help your child? Did you get your CFK Resource Fair grab & go bag and are still not sure where to start? Join us as we help you explore local summer opportunities and get organized with the resources you received from the Lorain County Resource Fair. Join CFKs’ staff including our Family Resource Specialists (FRS) who will help families identify the programs that are right for them. You’ll be able to connect with other families and also have the opportunity to meet 1:1 with a FRS virtually to find specific resources that are available and a good fit for your family. 7-8 p.m.
This program will not be recorded. If the Lorain County Resource Fair is rescheduled due to weather, this program will take place on Thursday, May 13.
May 11
Virtual Behavior Series: Tantrum Tamer Toolbox – Stop the Meltdown Before it Starts! May’s Tool: Visual Schedules Do you wish you had a kit filled with “tools” you could use to stop meltdowns before they start? Do you want strategies to motivate your child toward positive behavior? Join us each month to learn how to use one of the tools in our Tantrum Tamer Toolbox to help your child aged 18 months – 6 years control behavior and manage emotions. This program is designed for children with or without identified development concerns. Join Ochanya Wells, M.Ed., as she leads you through another tool in the Tantrum Tamer Toolbox. She will explore visual schedules including the first, then chart to manage behavior as we transition into summer and need tools to structure the day. She will also answer your questions on a variety of topics, which can be asked during the program or submitted upon registration. 7-8 p.m.
This program offers a safe space to connect with our professional and other families and the educational portion will be recorded. Register for the program to receive instructions on how to pick up your Tantrum Tamer Toolkit in its entirety at a designated library if you haven’t already. This tool is included in the original kit. This program is presented in partnership with MyCom and Cuyahoga County Public Library. *One free kit per household*
May 12
Virtual Speaker Series: Concerned? Ask Us!: Exploring Cuyahoga County Resources and Your Grab & Go Box
Are you overwhelmed with the need to find therapies and academic programs to help your child? Did you get your CFK Resource Fair grab & go box and are still not sure where to start? Join us as we help you explore local summer opportunities and get organized with the resources you received from the Cuyahoga County Resource Fair. Join CFKs’ staff including our Family Resource Specialists (FRS) who will help families identify the programs that are right for them. You’ll be able to connect with other families and also have the opportunity to meet 1:1 with a FRS virtually to find specific resources that are available and a good fit for your family. 7-8 p.m.
May 18
Virtual LGBTQ: Support and Resources for Families Series: Talking To Others About Your LGBTQ+ Child
Is your child questioning gender identity or sexual orientation? As a caregiver or family member, how can you be supportive and affirming? Join Kristen Pepera, MEd, LPCC-S, and Lisa Pepera, MEd, LPCC-S, of Colors+, as well as the community of other families to discuss gender nonconformity. This month our presenters will explore how to be an advocate for your child and prepare for difficult conversations and situations with others. This program will provide talking points and strategies for talking to others with patience and compassion. 7-8 p.m. We will also discuss the article titled, “Talking to Grandparents and Other Adult Family Members“. This program is a safe space and will not be recorded. Connecting for Kids provides families with resources so they can make an informed decision for their child.
Music Therapy & More on Demand (Videos)
Connecting for Kids collaborates with local music therapists to produce Music Therapy & More on Demand videos you can play anytime. Videos are available in both English and Spanish.Get your free kit that will give you everything you need to watch and complete the activities included in the videos. April kits will be available starting on May 9. Either pick up your kits on a first-come, first-served basis at the Westlake Porter Public Library at the Youth Services desk or drive-through window. Or, if you prefer, a kit will be mailed to your residence if you fill out the form on our website (connectingforkids.org/MusicOnDemand). Please note that mail can be delayed due to circumstances outside of our control. These kits are created in partnership with Westlake Porter Public Library and supported in part by the residents of Cuyahoga County through a public grant from Cuyahoga Arts & Culture.
