tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16713952469769200182024-02-19T22:35:18.071-08:00Minds & MattersThis blog will discuss issues pertinent to mental health, overall well-being, trends in healthcare, and programs at NCSS.
NCSShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05098122055955158807noreply@blogger.comBlogger12125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1671395246976920018.post-73012496332083128452018-01-23T12:32:00.001-08:002018-01-23T12:39:07.154-08:00Partnerships Strengthen Community: Focusing on Social and Emotional Learning in Local Schools<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">With their hands resting on the piece of paper in front
of them, everyone closed their eyes and awaited instructions. Tara Lawyer, a School-Based
Behavior Consultant (SBBC) from Northwestern Counseling & Support Services
(NCSS), delivered sloppy and ambiguous directions, quickly moving from one ask
to another, while eyeing the hesitant participants. They folded and unfolded,
creased and pressed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Some giggled at their gross misunderstanding of the task;
others sighed in exasperation and quit folding their papers altogether. Murmurs
could be heard throughout the room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">“I can’t follow along.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">“What did she say?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">“That doesn’t make sense.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">“Okay, open your eyes,” said Lawyer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">With raised eyebrows, one participant reviewed his
amorphous creation. “What is it?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">“You were making a frog!” Lawyer said. She proudly
displayed her cute little frog, perched on the palm of her hand. The point of
the exercise was to understand what a student might be feeling in a classroom
when they don’t understand the directions, can’t follow along or they feel
their work is all wrong. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicZsIVnwQmRgQ9Fipa6EAfSxdOLzHievxsmT4Ey_OJ1-2kj4VS93IIwQeNF3lLl7GiGdD-pmQrgPyxQiZVTUuZgz1OmHO8yBjisvVtsNDg2jrCeHThghGOuH49ibjwBBS5dLZAW2yE3-A/s1600/kids+in+classroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicZsIVnwQmRgQ9Fipa6EAfSxdOLzHievxsmT4Ey_OJ1-2kj4VS93IIwQeNF3lLl7GiGdD-pmQrgPyxQiZVTUuZgz1OmHO8yBjisvVtsNDg2jrCeHThghGOuH49ibjwBBS5dLZAW2yE3-A/s320/kids+in+classroom.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Even for those working with kids every day, it can be
easy to forget what it feels like to be a student in a classroom, muddled and
diffident. Many of us—as adults—have vast experience with frustration and
failure, but it’s countered by years of success, collaboration, and support; we
know what it feels like to come out on the other side. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">“I knew it wasn’t important, but I felt anxiety anyway,”
said one of the participants whose folded paper looked more like a crumpled
ball than a frog. “I wanted to get it right.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Others said they would have done better if the directions
were repeated, if Lawyer spoke more slowly, or if people around them were
quiet. Lawyer and her presenting partner, Colleen Pastina, both SBBC at
Enosburg and Swanton Elementary respectively, nodded their heads in agreement
to the participants’ frustrations. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">This particular training, attended by para-educators,
administrators and special educators and titled Effective Communication, was
one of several trainings offered on October 19,<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></sup>2017. In total, there
were eight trainings ranging from an introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis,
Trauma, Characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder, the Impact of a Disability
on Families, to specific strategies for working with students in public schools.
In all, 155 individuals from 13 schools engaged in learning activities with their
professional peers. “The community response to these free trainings was so
tremendous, we had to split the trainings into three separate locations,” says
Amy Irish, team leader for the School-Based Behavior Consultant Team at NCSS.
“Discussion has already begun with school administrators for how to continue to
broaden the scope of this type of collaboration in the near future.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The presentations were facilitated by NCSS employees from
the School Based Behavior Consultant Team, School Based Autism team, and the
Collaborative Achievement Team, all teams that are integrated in schools across
Franklin and Grand Isle Counties. The 2017-2018 school year marks the seventeenth
year that NCSS has partnered with schools in the area. “The partnership that
has developed between NCSS and the schools in Franklin Northeast is something
we feel is making a real difference for our students and families,” says Lynn
Cota, superintendent of Franklin Northeast Supervisory Union. “We are living
and working in a time when children and families need more support than ever,”
she says.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">As a SBBC, Lawyer may provide behavior consultation to
both classroom teachers and support staff. She acts as a resource in a variety
of ways, whether it is a minor adjustment or a long term intervention with a
learner. A behavior plan may be created by a SBBC like Lawyer when particular needs
of a student are identified. A student may need to work toward sitting still in
the classroom, entering the classroom appropriately, or using a respectful tone
of voice and staying safe. Teachers, parents, administration, support staff and
the guidance department then collaborate to assure the best possible outcome.
“This position allows me to share knowledge with others and build capacity of
social and emotional development in an ever-changing learning environment,”
says Lawyer. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Ginger Miles works in an alternative kindergarten
classroom for a couple hours of the day, then moves on to small group
instruction for third and fifth grade. A few times a week, she works one-on-one
with a third grader on specific skills. In her position, she has come to
appreciate and rely on Lawyer at Enosburg Elementary. “Tara is very much a part
of the Hornet culture,” says Miles. “She is out and about in the school, always
checking in with students and staff.” Miles says Enosburg has always been incredibly
supportive; the behavior plans created by Lawyer add another layer of support
and consistency. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">“These interactions have fostered inclusion for me within
the school. I appreciate being a part of a tight knit community,” says Lawyer.
“One of the many things that I love at Enosburg is the staff’s desire to learn
and support each student in the best way possible. There are so many
opportunities for success and small victories every single day.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><em>From left to right, top to bottom: Dan Bebernitz, SBBC at Swanton Elementary; Amy Irish, Team
Leader for the School-Based Behavior Consultant Team; Carrie Hatch, SBBC at
Sheldon Elementary; Tara Lawyer, SBBC at Enosburg Elementary; Sarah Tebbetts,
SBBC at Berkshire Elementary; Sierra Smith, SBBC at Highgate Elementary;
Colleen Pastina, SBBC at Swanton Elementary</em> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Irish commends Franklin Northeast Supervisory Union for
being such an innovative community partner, continually pushing NCSS to evolve
in the relationships with partners and in the supports to children and
families. “This partnership has resulted in the development of new and creative
initiatives that focus on prevention and resiliency for all students,” says
Irish. While NCSS employees are based within school settings, the ultimate goal
is for those staff to become truly integrated as part of the school team. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">“Not only does NCSS provide high quality support for
children demonstrating extraordinary levels of need within the school setting,”
says Cota, “they also provide our faculty and staff with training and resources
to help us all better understand how best to support children with behavioral and
mental health needs in the classroom.” The partnership that NCSS shares
with local schools represents an understanding of the importance of academics
as well as behavioral and mental health needs, notes Lawyer. Many students have
experienced trauma or have mental health needs; it is important to emphasize
the significance of social and emotional learning in the academic setting. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The common goal for NCSS and for our local schools is to
provide the best possible outcomes for local students. Working together,
through integrated partnerships, allows for everyone’s expertise to be utilized
in difficult situations. “It’s not fair to ask one person to be responsible for
raising a child, to make sure their experiences are positive and healthy,” says
Riley Benway, CAT Behavior Consultant and a presenter at the October 19<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>
trainings. Through partnerships with agencies like NCSS and our local schools,
we are a bit closer to assuring local students have the best opportunities
possible. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">“It’s up to all of us,” says Benway. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p></div>
<em>Written by Meredith Vaughn</em> <br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<u><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><o:p></o:p></span></u> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">NCSS values all the partnerships in our community. Below
are the schools NCSS has partnered with in a variety of capacities:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Alburgh Elementary <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Bakersfield Elementary <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Berkshire Elementary<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">BFA Fairfax (Elementary)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">BFA Fairfax (Middle/High)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">BFA St. Albans <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Enosburg Elementary/Middle/High School <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Fairfax Elementary <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Fairfield Elementary<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Georgia Elementary<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Highgate Elementary<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Montgomery Elementary<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">MVU <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Richford Elementary/Middle/High School <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Sheldon Elementary<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">St. Albans Town (SATEC)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Swanton Elementary<o:p></o:p></span></div>
NCSShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05098122055955158807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1671395246976920018.post-89243326539297765932017-09-14T09:37:00.000-07:002017-09-14T09:37:19.741-07:00New Tools for Difficult Conversations with Youth
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I<span style="font-family: Calibri;">t’s never easy to know what to
say when a child is in an emotional crisis, but the counselors at three YMCA summer
camps may have added some tools to their belts after a training by Samantha
Thomas and Lance Metayer of Northwestern Counseling & Support Services. There
were about 100 counselors in attendance from Camp Abnaki in Grand Isle; Camp
Koda with locations in Burlington, Georgia, Waterbury, and Essex; and Camp
Greylock in Ferrisburgh. The training focused on mental health in youth and
traumatic stress in childhood, topics that are all too often unexplored and
misunderstood. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">One of the most powerful messages
behind the training was in the way we think about mental <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6vZI-TWq4BxNzxFcQUaWvvf6LRLaBrl42uYa66KVaH0Tv72sXP4nOyO5iQfzWKj3kGZmUSxb7LLRb2b93GXikZkdS3Ulw3pQCvjlWzEesZgZDTIUoA5UfBLdkBo67PDxyfhDuM0MpL_w/s1600/IMG_0537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6vZI-TWq4BxNzxFcQUaWvvf6LRLaBrl42uYa66KVaH0Tv72sXP4nOyO5iQfzWKj3kGZmUSxb7LLRb2b93GXikZkdS3Ulw3pQCvjlWzEesZgZDTIUoA5UfBLdkBo67PDxyfhDuM0MpL_w/s320/IMG_0537.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Samantha Thomas presents to the group</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
illness and mental
health crises. Samantha Thomas, Team Leader for the Children’s Initial Response
Team at NCSS, phrases it as a paradigm shift.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When we alter our questioning from “What’s wrong with you?” to “What
happened to you?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and “Why are you
acting that way?” to “Why are you reacting that way?”, we respect each
individual’s experiences.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A child’s
behaviors may suggest intent, yet often the behaviors of traumatized children
are not intentional; they are reactions, or stated differently, these behaviors
are coping mechanisms learned over time.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">These coping mechanisms can be
misperceived as manipulation, intentional defiance, and aggression for example,
says Thomas. A child with complex trauma—multiple traumatic events overtime,
often within the childcare-giving system—may act out due to a trigger in their
immediate environment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These behaviors
often stem from a child’s trauma history.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Behaviors that are rooted in traumatic experience, such as name calling,
can appear to be plain old aggression. It is certainly challenging not to take
it personally when someone is yelling and calling names, but these behaviors
are what the child has learned to do in the moment to navigate their experience
and feel safe. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Other questions and approaches
become more natural when one makes that paradigm shift. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG533f5s9oKTAsk0ON_pt07eBdWGMMx1tdZiHP9BB24_f9-p3gN9f7R5RWZhBzerq1OUD6i3NDM9w1zW4Pz1EFKfiItbuBiXoBe19jt1zi1mm1zDqNzYWej2HRVcJr6eV4Vd7eP4-EZMs/s1600/IMG_2249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG533f5s9oKTAsk0ON_pt07eBdWGMMx1tdZiHP9BB24_f9-p3gN9f7R5RWZhBzerq1OUD6i3NDM9w1zW4Pz1EFKfiItbuBiXoBe19jt1zi1mm1zDqNzYWej2HRVcJr6eV4Vd7eP4-EZMs/s320/IMG_2249.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lance Metayer presents to the group</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Thomas and Metayer
would like counselors to use language that expresses clearly what they want the
child to do in the midst of an outburst or crisis, not what they want the child
to stop doing. In moments of crisis, a child may not know what an adult expects
of them. “We’d like adults to ask questions like ’What is it going to take to
help this child regulate and get in a better space? What are some strategies I
can use to help calm them so they can process?’” explains Thomas. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Some common triggers for
traumatized children may seem banal: transition from one setting to another;
noises such as slamming doors or ringing bells; redirections from teachers and
peers. While many young people have developed coping skills to manage these
everyday situations, children who have experienced complex trauma are acting in
whatever manner they have determined will keep them safe within an environment
they assume will cause them harm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some
possible Adverse Childhood Experiences, known as ACES, are exposure to domestic
violence; parental substance abuse; sexual or physical abuse; neglect; poverty;
caregiver incarceration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The prevalence
of Vermont children who have experienced one ACE is 50.6%, compared to the U.S.
prevalence of 47.9%. The prevalence of Vermont children who have experienced
more than one ACE is 23.3%, compared to the U.S. prevalence of 22.6%, according
to www.childhealthdata.org. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">ACEs often last a lifetime, but
they don’t have to. Healing can occur. The cycle can be broken. Safe, stable,
nurturing relationships can heal the caregiver and child. “One misperception
about mental illness is that there is no recovery,” says Lance Metayer, who
works for NCSS as the project manager for Aware Vermont, a statewide initiative
that brings no-cost Youth Mental Health First Aid training to educators and
communities throughout Vermont. Many of us might think of traditional talk
therapy as the only treatment, “but the truth is, everyone can help,” Metayer says.
While that may be true—that we can help—talking about mental illness is not
always easy. Trainings like the one recently offered at Camp Abnaki may make
those conversations feel a bit less intimidating. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Other more physical health issues
are comfortable topics for everyday conversation in ways that mental illness is
not, and the difference is not always explicable. Going to the doctor for a
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwl8tgF0c9izbzMy859DsvRQzS62AisU1PFGFMabyVxeBpFE1Jg01AljAVMwLNinR60GAUFOdlzDOe-08dDCSyegwP-UFnzpBUqz5Ir13poQZsMnu0QUPoVv3frmKeI30fzW8kQIpzxdE/s1600/one+in+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="222" data-original-width="697" height="126" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwl8tgF0c9izbzMy859DsvRQzS62AisU1PFGFMabyVxeBpFE1Jg01AljAVMwLNinR60GAUFOdlzDOe-08dDCSyegwP-UFnzpBUqz5Ir13poQZsMnu0QUPoVv3frmKeI30fzW8kQIpzxdE/s400/one+in+5.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">swollen knee, chronic migraines, or high blood pressure is often something
people are more than willing to share with their family, friends or co-workers.
But mental illness is not viewed through the same lens.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s rather shocking to
consider the level of stigma related to mental illness, given that 1 in 5
people will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime. There are
two kinds of stigma: public stigma and self-stigma. Public stigma is the
reaction the general population has to those with mental illness. Self-stigma,
which can be very damaging, is the prejudice one turns against oneself. And
what is more powerful than the things we believe about ourselves. <span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stigma
often prevents people from accessing care and talking about what is going on.
Yet, talking about mental illness is just the way to normalize it. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Trainings like this can be
particularly helpful in helping people feel more comfortable talking about
suicide. “There’s a big misperception that if you ask someone about suicide, you
will drive them to it,” Metayer says, “and that’s not true.” Another myth is
that if someone speaks about suicide, they are not serious about their
thoughts; in fact, talking about suicide may reveal the true depth of someone’s
feelings. There are some common warning signs of suicide: withdrawing from
family or friends, having a dramatic change in mood—sometimes an individual
with a plan will appear extremely happy. Other warnings signs may be sleeping
all the time, being unable to sleep, and giving away prized possessions. In the
training, the counselors were reminded of the importance of asking the question
directly, learning the warning signs, and reaching out to the crisis system if
a situation seems dire. One should not avoid the direct questions. Asking, “Are
you having thoughts of suicide?” with confidence can actually be reassuring for
an individual with suicidal thoughts. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The reality is that camp is inherently
a healing structure, Thomas points out. “The routine is established; the
expectations are clear.” At camp, the counselors build strong, personal
relationships with the campers. And with that, “counselors are sometimes the
best people to provide an intervention,” notes Metayer. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhoHjvHVbuge32el3Kp71qNNO82pUSfwFiG2wIM2o87EIN3JgQ2Wt7lJfLuYznftXiIjCjk_eYrxb76eStiCMH2GnYMeij-6kmeu-VUnAYpp-XgoGd3v13rfZuiWkfIWihtIzfEADyHrE/s1600/IMG_2251.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhoHjvHVbuge32el3Kp71qNNO82pUSfwFiG2wIM2o87EIN3JgQ2Wt7lJfLuYznftXiIjCjk_eYrxb76eStiCMH2GnYMeij-6kmeu-VUnAYpp-XgoGd3v13rfZuiWkfIWihtIzfEADyHrE/s400/IMG_2251.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thomas and Metayer with Sara Robertson Ryan, Director of School Aged Programs <br />
and Jon Kuypers, Director of Camp Abnaki</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The training also touched on ways
that leadership can approach policy from a trauma-informed care lens. There are
guidelines or policies that businesses, schools, or camps might have held for a
long time, and so they feel customary and comfortable. Metayer explains that
looking at those policies through a trauma lens pushes leadership to ask
questions about current processes: Does this process feel comfortable for
everyone? Does it cause any harm? Does it call anyone out? Does it make anyone
feel unsafe?<o:p></o:p></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thomas and Metayer were impressed
by the counselors who took this training. They were a very thoughtful group who
genuinely cared about the kids they worked with at camp. Several counselors
asked pointed questions about kids they had worked with before and what a
meaningful intervention would have looked like. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is never easy to have
difficult conversations with loved ones, friends, strangers, or those we meet at
camp. Talking about mental illness makes it feel just a little more normal,
which is powerful, since it is all around us. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> Written by Meredith Vaughn </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></o:p> </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">AWARE VERMONT
is a statewide collaboration between state designated mental health agencies
(DA’s), identified youth serving community partners, the Vermont Cooperative
for Practice Improvement and Innovation and Vermont Care Partners. <i> <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The
development and implementation of AWARE VERMONT is made possible by a grant
from Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
For more information about AWARE VERMONT or to sign up for a training near you,
contact Lance Metayer at </span><a href="mailto:lance.metayer@ncssinc.org"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="color: blue;">lance.metayer@ncssinc.org</span></span></a><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> or 802-582-8039.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
NCSShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05098122055955158807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1671395246976920018.post-54087190765979957542017-07-25T11:36:00.003-07:002017-07-26T05:06:07.092-07:00A Most Natural Approach<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Amy Anderson smiles as she repeats the phrase. “Dignity of
risk and the right to fail.” She lets the phrase sit quietly for a moment
before she continues. “Being a human means you can choose to do something or
not do something<span style="color: red;">. </span>It doesn’t matter what I think
you should do; it belongs to you,” Amy says. Amy feels the importance of
breaking assumptions about people with intellectual and developmental
disabilities. There is a sense sometimes that everyone with a disability is the
same, she states, but we should really be asking ourselves, “How are we all
alike? What about our dreams, passions, and fears?” Amy works directly with
clients a few days a week as well as in the Learning for Living program, which
aims to provide independent living skills to individuals with intellectual <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC_SNnwyzv69NZst9SZJtAYf5m3iOPkQbkI1RcbWfvPhlEPXsBRCHiihMAerR0wDRRJVdENkxceSGi5J31Rto_oOZBdOJMXXxFDRO1STvicke9ioeiPkb5YlCwEcbVZ4xTBCdNQ9te8aM/s1600/A__CFCE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="765" data-original-width="845" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC_SNnwyzv69NZst9SZJtAYf5m3iOPkQbkI1RcbWfvPhlEPXsBRCHiihMAerR0wDRRJVdENkxceSGi5J31Rto_oOZBdOJMXXxFDRO1STvicke9ioeiPkb5YlCwEcbVZ4xTBCdNQ9te8aM/s320/A__CFCE.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amy Anderson and Randy Lizotte</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
and developmental
disabilities. She also acts as a coordinator for the peer training team and as an ally for the Next Step Peer Support Group, which gives her multiple contacts with clients and allows for relationship building.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Many people are told what to do their whole lives, Amy
notes, and part of being a peer advocate is demonstrating what it looks like to
make choices and speak up for yourself in a way that works for you. It’s giving
people the confidence to speak up without fear of retribution. It’s believing
in them,” Amy says simply. Heather, a peer advocate, sits next to Amy with her
hands folded tidily across her lap. “Amy believed in me when I was studying for
my learner’s permit and I actually got it.” Her face lights up as she recalls
her triumph. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">We all know how hard it can be to speak up for ourselves,
especially if we feel like it’s not our place or we don’t have the right to
express our opinions. Maybe we don’t know what to say. Or we just don’t want to
do it alone. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Green Mountain Self Advocates (GMSA) is a statewide organization with a purpose of
supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to take
control of their lives, solve problems, make decisions, and advocate for
themselves. GMSA offers assistance with voting registration and helps to unify
voices at the state level to affect legislation by offering information and
education about the legislative process, as well as accommodations to allow
groups face-to-face opportunities with politicians. About 15 years ago Randy
Lizotte became a member of GMSA and he has
served as president of the Board since 2010. Self-advocacy has always been
Randy’s passion. He actually met his wife at a GMSA meeting, and two and a half
years later, he moved to St. Albans where his wife resided. Shortly after Randy
began volunteering at NCSS, there was a job posting in the Developmental
Services division, which Randy landed right away. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhebo_l9J7VypvVx-MnlpXLH4huc9Yd0h_hqYvpuQOoYXt09pKtiBvP7rqkFna_eQHDdaHWoY4TmgKM4VMFzqkTMT8mvTkMIQpaDCbIkfii9lS4zeRjE2CEBhog3TNn-OVnEFSXJe3edts/s1600/Logo_FINAL.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="180" data-original-width="612" height="94" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhebo_l9J7VypvVx-MnlpXLH4huc9Yd0h_hqYvpuQOoYXt09pKtiBvP7rqkFna_eQHDdaHWoY4TmgKM4VMFzqkTMT8mvTkMIQpaDCbIkfii9lS4zeRjE2CEBhog3TNn-OVnEFSXJe3edts/s320/Logo_FINAL.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">GMSA started out as a small self-advocacy group in
Burlington and has now expanded to a network of 23 local groups located in
towns across the state, including the St. Albans’ group. Next Step,
the St. Albans GMSA group, meets every Friday at the Academy of Learning, one
of NCSS programs within the Developmental Services division. Though the group
is not affiliated with NCSS, Kathy Brown, Developmental Services director,
wanted to show her support for the group by offering up NCSS space as a meeting
zone. “It is an honor to be given <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgsILTpeQfB60S_R1T-acdFlOBCriAyWeO5UkhGhvNMJ0dujmY1Kn3mrYl3aLUdrLJ58LEQK9V7M-osAhb-JyAUltfcWqJJ1KqfCSzOhv05oXXNab-OaB2kaHJn6rwhp7H9hb6JgOkMak/s1600/AOL.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="311" data-original-width="478" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgsILTpeQfB60S_R1T-acdFlOBCriAyWeO5UkhGhvNMJ0dujmY1Kn3mrYl3aLUdrLJ58LEQK9V7M-osAhb-JyAUltfcWqJJ1KqfCSzOhv05oXXNab-OaB2kaHJn6rwhp7H9hb6JgOkMak/s320/AOL.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Academy of Learning </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
access to the Next Step peer advocates voices,”
Kathy says. “They are insightful, honest, and dedicated to pushing all of us at
NCSS to deliver person-centered services. The Next Step peer group has allowed
our Local Standing Committee to join them monthly; this unified collaborative
gives a significant consumer voice to all our new initiatives and divisional
decision making.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Amy feels grateful that there is such support and that their
group is valued. “It’s really cool,” she says brightly. “It’s a real luxury at
NCSS to work with open-minded, flexible people,” she adds. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Individuals in the Next Step group share in a confidential
setting and participate in activities like the monthly movie showing, the
occasional bowling trip, or the rare excursion to the water park. Heather has
been a part of Next Step since 2008. Her first meeting was made a little
easier, she remembers, because she knew someone in the group, and it quieted
some of her discomfort about showing up to a room full of strangers. Now, she
couldn’t feel more comfortable. “The meetings are mostly run by us, peers, not
by Randy and Amy,” she notes proudly. “I have confidence in everyone that’s
there.” <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Even though the group is accommodating and accepting by
nature, it doesn’t mean showing up the first time is free of anxieties. Randy,
nodding agreeably, eyes Heather as she recalls her first group. He, too, felt
nervous when he attended his first group. “You don’t quite know your role right
away,” he explains. “I had to learn what I was good at, discover it on my own.
Had my good points and things I had to work on. Work on this, accomplish that.”
Self-advocacy is something you learn as you go along. Heather and others in the
group help with these anxieties by providing welcome baskets with information
and goodies. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Amanda, short-haired and bespectacled, chimes in. “The group
helps me connect with people. I’ve made a lot of friends. I met some people I
otherwise wouldn’t have, and it got me out of my shell.” Finding this kind of
genuine support feels incredible for anyone; it offers an even deeper layer of
support for individuals with disabilities, who can be at higher risk for social
isolation. The peer </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvdyWiDwBsKUqAA6FnJ6tL2PyznNZV-KeRwQDGICWGGKFgX71Xs46I6AsCv_BWgE-sAjfHUoc63YvQxh0zR7Uz6bTVOnZJx1_eGXGrUXSsFBcTppmuSIdTR46GsXyzpIQBywDga-ysU6s/s1600/randy+and+amy+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvdyWiDwBsKUqAA6FnJ6tL2PyznNZV-KeRwQDGICWGGKFgX71Xs46I6AsCv_BWgE-sAjfHUoc63YvQxh0zR7Uz6bTVOnZJx1_eGXGrUXSsFBcTppmuSIdTR46GsXyzpIQBywDga-ysU6s/s400/randy+and+amy+2.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amy Anderson and Randy Lizotte</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><span style="font-family: "calibri";">support group offers a non-judgmental setting to discuss
personal issues and concerns. Sometimes the concerns shared are about services
received, and that’s okay. Amy points out that receiving services can something
feel controlling, especially if an individual does not feel as if they have a
voice to contribute to the conversation about how their services are delivered.
These feelings are by no means a slight to providers—who always aim for the
highest quality of care—but we all need a little support sometimes in asking
for what we need and articulating our fears, desires, and hopes. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">As an alternative to asking someone to speak up solely for
themselves, Randy and Amy can help to facilitate peer support within an Individual
Support Agreement (ISA) meeting. This aspect of peer support really inspires
Heather who loves to “help people speak up and help them talk with their case
managers about their dreams and goals.” Heather can sit there with her friend
and guide them through the difficult conversation. If her peer so chooses,
Heather may speak for them based on what they discussed ahead of time. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Someone may feel they need help making their feelings clear,
but it doesn’t mean they need to speak alone. Self-advocacy is a choice.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“There’s a real
community for people with disabilities now where there wasn’t before,” says
Amy. When it comes to advocacy, most of Amy’s background was in crisis
management and recovery services. Her work at NCSS within peer advocacy felt
new. “I was used to speaking for those who couldn’t, but stepping aside is new
and encouraging. Helping people speak up for themselves has really worked for
me,” she says. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Randy and Amy both believe that peer services will be the
future of care, and that makes sense when considering the ripple effect the
groups have had on individuals. There have been fewer calls to crisis because, now,
people are calling their friends instead. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Peer to peer support is the most natural
approach in all of our lives,” says Kathy Brown. “NCSS is very fortunate to
have such a strong cohesive group of men and women helping to guide our
future.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Written by </span></o:p><o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Meredith Vaughn</span></o:p></div>
NCSShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05098122055955158807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1671395246976920018.post-56041252827034977362017-04-26T12:01:00.006-07:002017-04-26T13:23:18.414-07:00A Spectrum of Services <span style="font-family: "calibri";"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">There are many types of autism
and understanding of its causes and diagnoses have changed over time. In 2013,
four diagnoses that were once separated in the Diagnostic and Statistical
Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) were combined into the umbrella diagnoses of
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the DSM-5. These four diagnoses were autistic
disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive development disorder-not
otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), and Asperger syndrome. ASD in more prevalent in
boys; the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates the prevalence
of ASD as 1 in 68 children in the United States. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs-gNNUAMMiLUBdIYHntQtFTehQ07LfGNwfhZxdTo-q-40m8J5-AWYdOb0hyZiGXX-8D_icBKtGg-VLK5aCEgfBdq0hQZ5Hmd700x-kXE5g3icKQ7ym6Qep1ue0elyWSXSzJZrXYBzzJ8/s1600/Autism+Ribbon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs-gNNUAMMiLUBdIYHntQtFTehQ07LfGNwfhZxdTo-q-40m8J5-AWYdOb0hyZiGXX-8D_icBKtGg-VLK5aCEgfBdq0hQZ5Hmd700x-kXE5g3icKQ7ym6Qep1ue0elyWSXSzJZrXYBzzJ8/s320/Autism+Ribbon.jpg" width="167" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Autism is a complex brain-based
disorder that affects a person’s behavior, social and communication skills.
Symptoms can range from mild to severe and no two children with autism are
exactly alike. Each person with autism, like all of us, has unique strengths
and differences. Common problems exhibited by those with ASD are difficulty in
social situations; some never learn to speak, while others speak, but use
language in unusual ways. Others are sensitive to loud noises or bright lights.
There is no single treatment for autism, though many benefit from highly
structured educational programs and other services. You can visit our <a href="http://www.ncssinc.org/children-youth-family-services/autism" target="_blank">website</a>
for more information about these services. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">If a child is diagnosed with
autism, early intervention is critical to gain the maximum benefit from
existing therapies. In addition, after children have been diagnosed by
psychologists, developmental pediatricians, psychiatrists and neurologists, the
need for treatment and services are abundant. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">At NCSS, there are several
programs designed to serve individuals with autism. <a href="http://www.ncssinc.org/children-youth-family-services/school-based-services" target="_blank">The School-Based Autism Program</a> assists local schools in providing effective, strengths-based
interventions and programming for students with ASD, intellectual and
developmental disabilities and/or Down Syndrome. The program is based on the principals
of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA); students typically need a behavior support plan
to help decrease maladaptive behaviors while increasing prosocial and coping
skills. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">We, at NCSS, believe that
students, regardless of their abilities, belong in their local community
schools. The school-based services include behavioral interventionists,
available on a one-on-one basis; individualized services like this provide
opportunities for students to maintain positive relationships with peers and
access their education on a level that works for them. Behavior specialists,
autisms specialists, service coordination and case management are also
available.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The programming is flexible
and the child drives the program, making service delivery unique and
individually tailored. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The <a href="http://www.ncssinc.org/developmental-services/music-art-program" target="_blank">Program for Adaptive &Expressive Arts (PAEA)</a> offers therapeutic and recreational music, art and
sensory exploration experiences to children and adults with autism and
developmental disabilities as well as communication supports and socialization
opportunities. Like the services within the School-Based Autism Program, PAEA
sessions—private and group—are consumer-driven, allowing individuals to explore
personal goals set by them and their support teams. Music, art and sensory
exploration offer emotional, social, and physical benefits by facilitating
creative expression, fine and gross motor skill practice, and stress reduction.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4jEX-tKWwuN2LNn8naXghmIz0MFx_-8H2N8gTHKnxOpOGolTGg6rKYMg-XM0nAuUH84Bw6ee3xnz6eVRrvYdWdezpABpxloU-f3ro6_ZblWMOmTUe3sw5zqVPEqn45NUpQcgtKi-rmhk/s1600/musicalinstruments.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4jEX-tKWwuN2LNn8naXghmIz0MFx_-8H2N8gTHKnxOpOGolTGg6rKYMg-XM0nAuUH84Bw6ee3xnz6eVRrvYdWdezpABpxloU-f3ro6_ZblWMOmTUe3sw5zqVPEqn45NUpQcgtKi-rmhk/s320/musicalinstruments.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">
The PAEA music and art room at The Family Center is brightly lit and filled
with instruments and art supplies; the space invites creativity! The newly
upgraded sensory room provides a relaxed space with a variety of sensory
stimulators that can enervate or calm depending on the participant’s
needs. At NCSS’ various events, such as the Buddy Walk and the Autism
Walk, you can find the PAEA Team at their station, a large table full of
instruments and sensory items. PAEA also offers workshops in cooperative play,
family life and sexual health, American Sign Language (ASL) and Alternative and
Augmentative Communications (AAC). There are seasonal concerts and recitals and
art shows where everyone can show to the community-at-large what they’ve
accomplished!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Camp Rainbow, a creative summer
camp for children with autism or other developmental disabilities, provides
stimulating activities such as swimming, singing, crafts, outdoor play and
more. Camp Rainbow incorporates sensory exploration, fine/gross motor skills,
communication skills, academic skills and social skills into the activities
each day. This year, Camp Rainbow will run from August 7-August 11, 2017 and be
held at the Soar Learning Center. And who knows…there might be some surprises
in store! You can find registration information here by visiting our <a href="http://www.ncssinc.org/children-youth-family-services/camp-rainbow" target="_blank">website.</a> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0rul-QZr6qmtuVn6lyKrxsrdyoe4o-Lp8Kurl8dmMwtSgXQou-51dWz-358tAhwXWUtv91GZVIkbBR86Uf2lZu-9mm_2_i95PGR4RUKNPJZmKv6pXidSxMdq-H5bgad0drf3FhfEEEUA/s1600/LaughingTeenDowns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0rul-QZr6qmtuVn6lyKrxsrdyoe4o-Lp8Kurl8dmMwtSgXQou-51dWz-358tAhwXWUtv91GZVIkbBR86Uf2lZu-9mm_2_i95PGR4RUKNPJZmKv6pXidSxMdq-H5bgad0drf3FhfEEEUA/s320/LaughingTeenDowns.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The <a href="http://www.ncssinc.org/children-youth-family-services/family-support-services" target="_blank">Applied Behavior Services</a>
team of Northwestern Counseling & Support Services provides treatment in
the home, community setting, and in our new building, the Applied Behavior
Center. Services are provided to children of all ages diagnosed with Autism
Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities using Applied Behavior
Analysis (ABA). This team adheres to best practices and ethical guidelines of
ABA.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Each program is tailored to meet
the needs of the individual child and their family, with a strong emphasis on
specific skill acquisition, behavior, and communication. These skills are
taught through ABA and B.F. Skinner’s model of Verbal Behavior. Individual
acquisition and behavior management programs are created from individual
assessments.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Skills are reassessed frequently and progress is monitored
and measurable via weekly data tracking. Teaching strategies and content
are modified as needed to fit each child’s needs and all teaching techniques
are based on what research studies have proven to be the most effective.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Program Components:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Functional language skills: vocals, sign language, picture exchange communication system</span></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Consultative model consisting of parent training in ABA procedures</span></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Self-care: toilet training, tooth brushing, dressing, shoe tying</span></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Reductive procedures for non-desired behaviors</span></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Video modeling</span></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Skill acquisition</span></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Social stories</span></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Social skills<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span></o:p></span> </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">NCSS believes daily programs for
people with autism or intellectual and developmental disabilities should also
be unique and individualized to each person’s specific needs. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="line-height: 115%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj4hGtjiTeaiEvcj6yv7aeGiGNrsRLH0aMJVrlc4xAtYaoVD8H1rMTnrTKh4lUD4SodlUBTAufBERuPVGZ9UwRLojzu4bc4aslTuQ7C8XmQlAy42fLfQJfjO27gt9Wwa5KrLEfQ-DUJA8/s1600/Autism.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj4hGtjiTeaiEvcj6yv7aeGiGNrsRLH0aMJVrlc4xAtYaoVD8H1rMTnrTKh4lUD4SodlUBTAufBERuPVGZ9UwRLojzu4bc4aslTuQ7C8XmQlAy42fLfQJfjO27gt9Wwa5KrLEfQ-DUJA8/s320/Autism.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">we’re here for you<o:p></o:p></span></div>
NCSShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05098122055955158807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1671395246976920018.post-46931982385660506342017-02-08T08:36:00.002-08:002017-02-08T08:39:11.230-08:00Winter's Effect <br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Vermont is a wonderful place to live for many reasons—clean
air, open space, small town charm—but it also offers its challenges, especially
in the winter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anyone who has spent
considerable time in Vermont and lived through a winter can recognize the
trouble! It’s frigid, windy, dark, wet, and long.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5WWheYNG8d6jYjBXT8-6-GIEi-FL5PWEfkBtW7zSL4DIhe7yd-pvfulXEDKUTBwbt1RGL_kuHD3ZaJ0qRozPJF0EESyfKm1iqzlyeaxAPq_NBytY1_-QpBJ8rWYWCNFIUC0eJXTGzAKQ/s1600/Naturewinter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5WWheYNG8d6jYjBXT8-6-GIEi-FL5PWEfkBtW7zSL4DIhe7yd-pvfulXEDKUTBwbt1RGL_kuHD3ZaJ0qRozPJF0EESyfKm1iqzlyeaxAPq_NBytY1_-QpBJ8rWYWCNFIUC0eJXTGzAKQ/s320/Naturewinter.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">While many of us might feel a bit starved for sunlight or
warmth during the winter months, for some people, the seasons can have a dramatic
effect: seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a condition that can have a
tremendous impact on a person’s well-being. SAD is a form of depression that comes
and goes depending on the time of year. Spring-onset SAD—a type of SAD that
starts in the spring and goes away in the fall and winter—can truly impact
someone’s life, though it is much less common than the most common form,
fall-onset SAD, a type of SAD that starts in late fall and goes away in the
spring and summer. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Individuals with fall-onset SAD might notice increased
appetite, especially for starchy and sweet foods; low energy; increased sleep;
weight gain; hypersensitivity to rejection; feeling of heavy arms and legs; and
irritability. Dr. Steve Sobel of NCSS says that individuals experiencing these
symptoms often have to distinguish their feelings from other possible triggers
in the season, such as the holidays, which can be a real stressor for many. There
are plenty of things in everyday life that can make us feel blue from time to
time, or make us want to indulge in carb-heavy meals and sweet treats; but if an
individual experiences these symptoms for days at a time, they should not be tempted to
brush them off. Like with other forms of depression, SAD can worsen if not
treated. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBcxi7GH40uXGqExT3tAZAoqReyIUdRHPi9kIuRVBJhEhvvMNVlJoM9RISMVQjM_d8G4fqgNvSy3r-I8sHinGjeQNJnsIVzsn065JOnG0RCUduKk8al3vdC6dBwh9Yo6yijGImy4HLsZA/s1600/couple+outside+in+fall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBcxi7GH40uXGqExT3tAZAoqReyIUdRHPi9kIuRVBJhEhvvMNVlJoM9RISMVQjM_d8G4fqgNvSy3r-I8sHinGjeQNJnsIVzsn065JOnG0RCUduKk8al3vdC6dBwh9Yo6yijGImy4HLsZA/s320/couple+outside+in+fall.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">A primary care provider can be a great resource; depending on the
severity of the symptoms, varying treatments are available. For mild symptoms,
phototherapy (light therapy), talk therapy, and lifestyle changes can be
effective. Talk therapy can be helpful in managing symptoms, and individuals
might be less likely to experience SAD in the future. Being diagnosed with
depression with a seasonal pattern might indicate that an individual is more
likely to experience SAD year after year; it doesn’t guarantee it. For those
whose symptoms are having a pronounced and significant impact on daily life,
medication, along with other treatments, might be considered.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">There are several lifestyle changes—some of them small—that
can improve symptoms associated with SAD.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">1.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Try to go for a walk during the day. Even if it
is cloudy and cold outside, outdoor light can help. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">2.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Expose yourself to as much sunlight as possible.
If you have a window in your office, open up the curtains or blinds. If you
work on a desk at home, try to move your desk closer to the window to soak up
as much light as possible. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">3.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Incorporate exercise into your daily routine.
Exercise is beneficial on so many levels; it can increase self-esteem, relieve
stress, and help you sleep, all of which can reduce SAD symptoms. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">It’s not always easy to work up the energy to go for a walk
or get outside when it’s blustery and cold. Good news is, spring is right
around the corner!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Check out these links for more information about SAD:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><a href="http://www.nami.org/About-NAMI/NAMI-News/Less-Sunlight-Means-More-Blues-for-Some">http://www.nami.org/About-NAMI/NAMI-News/Less-Sunlight-Means-More-Blues-for-Some</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><a href="http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/seasonal-affective-disorder.aspx">http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/seasonal-affective-disorder.aspx</a></span></div>
<br />
Written by Meredith Vaughn </div>
NCSShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05098122055955158807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1671395246976920018.post-81225711329101156032016-12-23T06:51:00.000-08:002016-12-23T09:19:10.629-08:00When Something Isn't Right <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi20b2V5y0elncyJ3T0jZTOCll27YCxX8wmKzR_6BDAMvtsvglrOASgLtP7BhJYftz5jJGsTJEX-kn19KwOZ8B3QfDmksVYtU6tPECSMh7JrqA8BLTdvTQqkkZSUtTwqWIUYAO5TreuJbg/s1600/mom+with+baby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi20b2V5y0elncyJ3T0jZTOCll27YCxX8wmKzR_6BDAMvtsvglrOASgLtP7BhJYftz5jJGsTJEX-kn19KwOZ8B3QfDmksVYtU6tPECSMh7JrqA8BLTdvTQqkkZSUtTwqWIUYAO5TreuJbg/s320/mom+with+baby.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Heather Wilson, Early Childhood Support Team Leader at NCSS,
notes that many expectant mothers feel thrilled about the upcoming birth of
their child; they expect motherhood will be fulfilling and sublime, but when
the baby is born, they might not feel that way at all. Mothers may experience depression, anxiety,
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder following a
traumatic birthing experience. Feelings of depression, compulsion, or anxiety
do not mean someone is a bad mother and they do not mean she doesn’t love her
baby. Every mother has her own story, says Heather. “We want [expectant and
postpartum mothers] to know we’re here to help. We want to be a source of light
during a time of darkness and provide comfort to unsettling distress.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Anna Gabaree knew throughout her pregnancy that she was at
risk for postpartum depression and anxiety, and she knew what signs to look
for. As soon as her baby was born, she felt a change instantly, like something
wasn’t right. For Anna, the symptoms didn’t manifest in depression—as most
people might associate with struggling new mothers—rather, she feared for her
baby’s safety to a degree that was harmful. She would sit awake and stare at
her daughter through the night fearing that something would go wrong and her
baby would die. After feeding, Anna wouldn’t allow herself to leave her baby’s
side for even a moment, worrying that something terrible would occur in her
absence. As her daughter grew a bit older, she felt intense anxiety that she was
doing everything wrong: she hadn’t read to her daughter enough; she hadn’t
cleaned up enough; she hadn’t completed enough puzzles with her child. Like
many mothers, Anna held it together at work and with her friends—people who saw
her every day didn’t even know anything was wrong—but on the inside, she was
bubbling over with anxiety. On the day she found herself screaming into a
pillow to release, she knew she needed to seek help.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">As supervisor of the Northwestern Medical Center Birthing
Center, Anna was in a knowledgeable position; she knew she was at risk and she
also had an understanding of symptoms and the kinds of resources that could
help. For expectant or postpartum mothers who are not as familiar, there are
screening tools to help identify troubling feelings, like the Edinburgh
Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) that is used at Northwestern Medical Center
(NMC). The EPDS is a 10-question screening tool that asks mothers to consider
their feelings over the week leading up to the test. It is intended to be
administered with the mother privately; this way the mother has the best
opportunity to feel comfortable being honest. The EPDS can reveal results that
are then reviewed with the mother’s provider, and referrals can be made from
there. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5CVmY8hllPa9vtu4KLqophWR5yCs8NoTopEltG2A_CixRbR1GeOEvYlw3mq36yRl_5U9eec2CCkXKVXfQ6uZXWGrSLJ-Yt4PwfCg2431Iv7M0I7Iej8bOVMlhCW3A61CFcaI9sQk_yD0/s1600/nurse+with+mom+and+baby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5CVmY8hllPa9vtu4KLqophWR5yCs8NoTopEltG2A_CixRbR1GeOEvYlw3mq36yRl_5U9eec2CCkXKVXfQ6uZXWGrSLJ-Yt4PwfCg2431Iv7M0I7Iej8bOVMlhCW3A61CFcaI9sQk_yD0/s320/nurse+with+mom+and+baby.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">While referrals can come from anywhere, a majority of the referrals to
the NCSS Perinatal Mental Health Counseling program come from NMC do to their
thorough screening process. The EPDS is conducted after delivery; in the
two-three days that a mother stays in the NMC Birthing Center; two weeks after
delivery; and again six weeks postpartum. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Sometimes a mother in the birthing unit might feel like
something is wrong, but she can’t identify it. These upsetting thoughts or emotions can start during pregnancy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It can be easy to brush off,”
Anna says. “But it’s okay to say that. It’s okay to say ‘something isn’t right.
I’m not okay.’” When a woman does say this, Anna and the other nurses in the
Birthing center might follow up with questions like, “Can you tell me more
about that?” “What are you afraid of?” “What does it look like?” Expectant or postpartum
mothers can speak with any of the nurses in the Birthing Center; the nurses can
help attach vocabulary and understanding to feelings and also connect mothers
with programming at NCSS that can offer further supports. It’s important to
have quick access to programs and support, says Anna. A mother experiencing
these unsettling and forbidding feelings does not want to wait days to hear
from a provider. Within hours, a mother can be referred to the Perinatal Mental
Health Counseling program and feel like support is on the way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgAhDkx2ok-nAgwzEpT_SHLiuOn_R8q8Jp_Tu-u-BB8WkJ6s9s3eFXEyXi9-j6q01isBcCq9-cteLvyFFHkthAhbJIs3yuGP0YmxeJUbAVOc2_PetwzKOyfN2_oIRKUJGmNsDMVWROO_c/s1600/new+baby-tee-shirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgAhDkx2ok-nAgwzEpT_SHLiuOn_R8q8Jp_Tu-u-BB8WkJ6s9s3eFXEyXi9-j6q01isBcCq9-cteLvyFFHkthAhbJIs3yuGP0YmxeJUbAVOc2_PetwzKOyfN2_oIRKUJGmNsDMVWROO_c/s320/new+baby-tee-shirt.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The Perinatal Mental Health Counseling program is a unique
one at NCSS. Expectant mothers or new mothers who may be experiencing troubling
symptoms can receive counseling in their homes from a traveling counselor: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jessica Dewes, Early Childhood Specialist.
Packing up the car and driving to NCSS might not feel feasible for new mothers
just adopting a routine at home. Jessica will sit amidst a pile of laundry, or
push aside diapers and rattles to engage in a conversation. “Messes don’t matter,”
she says, laughing, as though she is recalling messes in her own home that
might invite judgement. Jessica can work with families and mothers to reduce
symptoms so motherhood can feel enjoyable and fulfilling. Jessica is also able
to make referrals to other programs for the family while she works with the
mother; as can be expected, the entire family can be affected when one is
struggling with a mental health issue. Jessica loves the work she does with
mothers, and she is moved by how many community members and mothers are open to
the program. It can be difficult to seek treatment; some mothers are
experiencing these feelings for the first time, and unfortunately, like many
mental health issues, there is stigma attached to postpartum depression and anxiety.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh20_QyIMsHeHMSKpux2WtF6f7cbvHcHkrR_MPJ8es3Ca5cERcItS-a4K9w8-koxcxzyICYHPmjHBvfVzjoQL5j2c0y2haPx_Ahh7N2BKD-GOfqibUs5qVjzICnld2leRsyLcw-Jz2c9cU/s1600/babyFeet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh20_QyIMsHeHMSKpux2WtF6f7cbvHcHkrR_MPJ8es3Ca5cERcItS-a4K9w8-koxcxzyICYHPmjHBvfVzjoQL5j2c0y2haPx_Ahh7N2BKD-GOfqibUs5qVjzICnld2leRsyLcw-Jz2c9cU/s200/babyFeet.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Part of that stigma might come from the media’s portrayal of
mothers experiencing depression or anxiety. Often, in movies, TV, and even the
news, stories are sensationalized and depict mothers as dangerous to their
babies. Within NCSS’s program, counselors and other staff try to break the
cycles of stigma. Every mother has her own story and her own journey, and for
each of those mothers NCSS can help them to develop some strategies for
success. Prior to a diagnosis of symptoms, everything can feel strange,
misunderstood, and weird. Jessica says she can tell a mother’s situation is
improving when the mother begins to be honest with herself about her feelings. Surrendering
can lead to important understanding and reduction of symptoms. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Finding a solid support system that encourages open, honest
communication can make all the difference for expectant and postpartum mothers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For Anna, that meant talking to her family
and her doctor. For other mothers, maybe that support person is a sister or a spouse,
a partner or a neighbor; maybe it’s the person who delivers the paper in the
morning. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The Perinatal Mental Health Counseling program at NCSS is
intended for expectant or postpartum mothers in Franklin and Grand Isle
counties. If you know of someone who is experiencing any of these troubling
symptoms, please reach out. There is no wrong door at NCSS; if you are looking to make a referral to the Perinatal Mental Health Counseling program, please call our main number, 802-524-6554 and someone will be happy to assist you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><em>Please click on the link to watch the NCSS Here for You episode on Perinatal Mental Health Counseling. In this episode, you can hear Heather Wilson, Jessica Dewes, and Anna Gabaree talk about this unique program.</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ROXU13Tz0w" target="_blank">NCSS Here for You, Perinatal Mental Health Counseling</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">we’re here for you. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Written by Meredith Vaughn <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p></div>
</div>
NCSShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05098122055955158807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1671395246976920018.post-65722470575338602172016-11-14T13:21:00.000-08:002016-12-23T06:55:06.931-08:00The Paths That Lead Us<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">When you think about
why you do your job, what comes to mind? Maybe you always dreamed of your
career from when you were a little kid, or perhaps you developed a passion for
a trade and worked at it, made it your life’s work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or possibly you’re still searching for the
thing that will fulfill you. Sometimes, like in Kathy Brown’s case, our work
finds us. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaOWjqe92FxhsUbm7XvyGoH9R7Mv2FORRhmOtjPpVRK9n8KV80JViqQNTUatyEnM-s4CQHjlxJ04gquwUymPIFqx4J2tP0fwVWiyRbngQT_PqWup1KJkS_DSbgxFD5eBa_n3NHcJljh3o/s1600/Kathy+Brown+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaOWjqe92FxhsUbm7XvyGoH9R7Mv2FORRhmOtjPpVRK9n8KV80JViqQNTUatyEnM-s4CQHjlxJ04gquwUymPIFqx4J2tP0fwVWiyRbngQT_PqWup1KJkS_DSbgxFD5eBa_n3NHcJljh3o/s200/Kathy+Brown+%25282%2529.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kathy Brown</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Brown, Director of
Developmental Services at NCSS, eagerly entered the mental health field in 1979
after graduating from college. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For two
years, she worked at the state hospital, and things were different back then for
those with disabilities. It wasn’t until 1990 that the Americans with
Disabilities Act was passed, a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination
against individuals with disabilities, and it wasn’t until 1995 that the
Vermont Developmental Disabilities Act was passed. To say the least, Brown has
been witness to some pretty big changes on the Vermont hill. Brown notes that
when she first entered the field, the population she served was institutionalized;
now they are living in the community with their families, and have access to
education and a fulfilling life just like everyone else. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Brown smiles as she
reflects on the start of the career. Apparently, she surprised herself by
getting married—something she swore she’d never do—and then again by having two
sons—something else she said she’d never do! Everything changed for Brown when
her oldest son Kyle got into an accident and endured a severe traumatic brain
injury. He spent a year and a half in rehab, regaining skills he had learned
once as a very small child. There is intensity in Brown when she talks,
especially when she recalls reentering the field of developmental services in
1996. Brown left mental health in 1981 and worked as a program manager at what
is now Mylan for 23 years. But her son’s journey lit a fire in her, she says,
and that’s when she applied at NCSS. Over the last ten years, she’s worn a
number of hats at the agency: she started working on the employment team, then
oversaw the behavioral team; she then became interim director, got her master’s
in rehabilitative counseling, and in 2014, Brown found herself in the
director’s chair where she currently sits. This is quite a seat to settle into,
as there are over 250 clients receiving services, 157 staff working in the
division, and 110 contracts with shared living providers. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Brown certainly
doesn’t do it alone; she has help from many people, like her leadership team:
Amy Bronson, Assistant Director; Emily Norris, Assistant Director; and Amber Schaeffler.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrbD0xq5b1lXDKWLgV372WFC0rPrUNoqxWD4q5nCfSjdB8gDud6M9fybzFjymwDKLSJDK10jp_miA8ExFPcu0Hikah5gpJ1Rja92akJdtikqGBtoYA_2cKtaXxbf4kwGeyMRygaOJSFQ/s1600/teamwork.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrbD0xq5b1lXDKWLgV372WFC0rPrUNoqxWD4q5nCfSjdB8gDud6M9fybzFjymwDKLSJDK10jp_miA8ExFPcu0Hikah5gpJ1Rja92akJdtikqGBtoYA_2cKtaXxbf4kwGeyMRygaOJSFQ/s200/teamwork.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Schaeffler, a licensed
clinical social worker in the DS division, was on the NCSS Here for You television
show and also presented at the last Grand Rounds seminar along with Brown. She
coordinates the Clinical Oversight Committee and the Internal Behavior Support
Review. Schaeffler is also getting certified in biofeedback and neurofeedback,
both alternative forms of therapy that are quite effective with those with
developmental disabilities. Biofeedback refers to the clinical applications
where physiological signals from the body are used for auditory or visual
feedback. When given this feedback during a therapy or training session, an
individual can learn how to alter their breathing or behavior. Biofeedback
provides a visual representation of a client’s stress, thereby giving them the
tools to learn about their body and shift behavior—even slightly—to work toward
a goal. A client’s ideal BPM (breaths per minute) will provide the most
restorative functions for the body; this information can be gathered from
biofeedback. With biofeedback, an individual’s tension is visually displayed on
a screen, providing a powerful tool for recognizing stress within the body. The
visual graphs allow individuals to see the control they have over their own
Autonomic Nervous System and that can be very powerful in healing. This form of
therapy is especially beneficial for those who may not find success with traditional
talk therapy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is just one of the many programs
available within the DS division.* Maybe you’re wondering what makes someone
eligible for DS services. There are several criteria: an individual must have
an IQ of 70 or less and have significant adaptive behavior challenges in at
least two areas of daily living—in other words, everyday social and practical
skills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Intellectual Disability must
have originated before the age of 18. This last criterion can prove tricky for
staff in the DS division, especially if an individual who has never sought
services before attempts to access DS services as an adult. Before services can
be provided, staff must sift through years of documentation to find evidence of
the disability prior to the age of 18; this might mean contacting previous
school placements or family members conducting intensive interviews to
establish functioning as a child. It can be challenging for our Intake Coordinator
Samantha Burnell to locate, engage, and scour through information to uncover
this proof; staff wants to deliver services in the most meaningful way and when
they are needed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFrExW-H19-CQFx46IJfE1wCqBMGHkDPZ1Y7fT0DKoG24QTAQR_beqs4eKe4vyhME-W0eslGKlm4Upr8qI16374ZBcI8-EM-Ty7C7UaoaoYLpGn1dqXdfRiZqAMiUobvKDjSfKfZ7lyRM/s1600/IMG_3230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFrExW-H19-CQFx46IJfE1wCqBMGHkDPZ1Y7fT0DKoG24QTAQR_beqs4eKe4vyhME-W0eslGKlm4Upr8qI16374ZBcI8-EM-Ty7C7UaoaoYLpGn1dqXdfRiZqAMiUobvKDjSfKfZ7lyRM/s200/IMG_3230.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amber Schaeffler</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Schaeffler, like Brown,
followed an interesting path before coming to NCSS, and hers was punctuated by
several advance degrees. Given her position now, you might not know that she
has a bachelor’s degree in sociology and criminology and a master’s in criminal
justice. That’s not all! She has a master’s in social work too! Schaeffler isn’t
just wealthy in degrees; she’s also rich in life experience: before she moved
to Vermont, where she met her husband, Schaeffler worked with the Deaf, Hard of
Hearing, Late-Deafened and Deaf-Blind who had experienced domestic violence and/or sexual violence. It’s
special that she found herself working at NCSS<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">—given her background—</span>since
NCSS is home to the only developmental deaf services team in the state. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzP-UdPshMz6V6JG3WkQEe0fluM7vd8qSfB0HocSZk6pQvCB-XoUSE95wo4YmXFguxKTRivkt3MCWdTuEcm4xoIaEHISBbl82O2jQGe1Uc0-EBqFMOG6qiZXszdKBpHGUFD9-QAs4Lakw/s1600/Deaf7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzP-UdPshMz6V6JG3WkQEe0fluM7vd8qSfB0HocSZk6pQvCB-XoUSE95wo4YmXFguxKTRivkt3MCWdTuEcm4xoIaEHISBbl82O2jQGe1Uc0-EBqFMOG6qiZXszdKBpHGUFD9-QAs4Lakw/s200/Deaf7.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Talking to Brown and
Schaeffler, it’s easy to see how they landed where they are. Schaeffler is
approachable, unassuming, and gentle; she sits with her hands folded in her lap
and smiles as she answers questions. Brown is soft spoken but pointed in her
speech, and it’s evident that she’s passionate about her work. She knows what
she’s fighting for every day. The most common misperception of those with
intellectual disabilities, Brown says, is that they are not intelligent or
capable of living a life like everyone else in their communities. “They are
extremely capable of that,” Brown says. “They should have the same rights as
all of us.” Brown says that the laws have heightened awareness and given
advocates some teeth, but there is still a lot of stigma. Anyone doing this
work day in and day out is doing it because they care about crushing the stigma
that follows individuals with disabilities. They care about every individual
being able to fulfill their goals. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqPm-kGaI840cerl6VdpFu1VD_grLsqvFT-NpVMl7k9PmVQTMSNXJZc3iu0g2padTZUubaPhox3LRsL64UIoDdA6LuBSvPkKObnAvdTHuEKrc0cEnHib9HnojqBKhECwDJGL5h1DLpkYc/s1600/ds+services.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqPm-kGaI840cerl6VdpFu1VD_grLsqvFT-NpVMl7k9PmVQTMSNXJZc3iu0g2padTZUubaPhox3LRsL64UIoDdA6LuBSvPkKObnAvdTHuEKrc0cEnHib9HnojqBKhECwDJGL5h1DLpkYc/s200/ds+services.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Some of that stigma is
in the way we talk. Putting the disability before the individual can perpetuate
stigma, and you might be surprised by how commonplace this language is. How
often have you heard the following phrases? “She’s autistic.” “He’s learning
disabled.” “They’re in special education.” This kind of language defines the
individual as their disability, rather than a person who has a disability. “She
has autism.” “He has a learning disability.” “They receive special education
services.” Think about it: Would any of us want to be defined by just one
thing? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">*There are many
services and programs available within the DS division of NCSS. You can read
more about these services on our website by clicking on the “Developmental
Services” tab at the top of page or by clicking on this link: </span><a href="http://www.ncssinc.org/developmental-services"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.ncssinc.org/developmental-services</span></span></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p>Written by Meredith Vaughn </o:p></span></div>
NCSShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05098122055955158807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1671395246976920018.post-82885149964897425922016-09-28T08:50:00.000-07:002016-09-28T08:56:59.746-07:00Welcome to Minds & Matters, the new NCSS blog!Hello and welcome!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Our blog is also about to head down a new path, and we’re very excited to be launching it at the same time that our responsive website has its debut. We know how busy life can be. Every day can feel like a marathon and you’re perpetually stuck at mile 23! <br />
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqIwe3RqoRp1S5OCV7uk9ZfiQ2TXjp-hH5wGcqyZx8iKpZ-wjwpHSQRvmGNGF-0hq3rBd-3HxxkNEaPQVwmLLgLCpFEzCs3MGR2Xw_hAV4IIGGbF0wLa_TXU13sBxE4kdxtktyyC7itJ4/s1600/coffeebreak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqIwe3RqoRp1S5OCV7uk9ZfiQ2TXjp-hH5wGcqyZx8iKpZ-wjwpHSQRvmGNGF-0hq3rBd-3HxxkNEaPQVwmLLgLCpFEzCs3MGR2Xw_hAV4IIGGbF0wLa_TXU13sBxE4kdxtktyyC7itJ4/s200/coffeebreak.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">
<br />
You might be thinking to yourself, “I don’t have time to read a blog!” While some days you might be right, we hope you can find the time (at least some of the time) to join us on our new path.</span><span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">
</span><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Did you know that 1 in 5 adults in America experience a
mental illness in a given year? And 1 in 25 adults in America lives with a
serious mental illness? Even with these numbers, the average delay between
onset of symptoms and intervention is 8 to 10 years, according to the National
Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). While there may be a number of reasons for
this statistic, we at NCSS recognize that there is a social stigma associated
with mental illness; this stigma can feel debilitating and it prevents the
majority of people with mental illness from seeking help. NCSS prefers to view
STIGMA as an acronym for <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">S</b>triving <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">T</b>o <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">I</b>ncrease
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">G</b>ood <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">M</b>ental Health <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">A</b>wareness.
<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Minds & Matters</i>
is for everybody—clients, staff, families, community members—and we invite you
to join us. A blog post may focus on one of our programs here at NCSS, offer a
discussion about a mental health article or issue, cast a glow on an inspiring
story from our community, or provide tips and pointers for general health and
well-being. It is NCSS’ mission to build a stronger community; engaging in
meaningful conversations can move us just a bit closer to our goal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">We hope you’ll visit <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Minds
& Matters</i> again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">we’re here for you<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
NCSShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05098122055955158807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1671395246976920018.post-84756803465949921062013-02-22T11:45:00.000-08:002013-02-22T11:47:40.373-08:00Enhancing Your Child's Communication Skills<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">By Liza Boudreau, NCSS CIS Early Interventionist<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">As a parent or caregiver it is never too early to enhance
your child’s language and communication. Believe it or not, early communication
begins in the first couple months of life. Newborns will coo and turn their
head towards you as you talk to them. As your newborn grows they will begin to
babble and have various types of cries depending on their needs. In the toddler
years, children will begin to use gestures such as pointing and waving. They
will also begin to make sounds with intonation and try to imitate words. All of
these are early forms of communication.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi11MwqdIJTzH-c5beQAerhqgIW0C4QemxVFt045dG-sgQTdzL3PHigBY-pz0Ku_MxJlk0dsZxdV31rCm23Xm2B3XQmEfrIoTWWUsacVg86lvSlCgA9FBO3lFyq4yWCAmUZbiAi-Vsew2M/s1600/TweenDiscussion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi11MwqdIJTzH-c5beQAerhqgIW0C4QemxVFt045dG-sgQTdzL3PHigBY-pz0Ku_MxJlk0dsZxdV31rCm23Xm2B3XQmEfrIoTWWUsacVg86lvSlCgA9FBO3lFyq4yWCAmUZbiAi-Vsew2M/s320/TweenDiscussion.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Speech and language is beyond just talking. Pre-speech
and language skills begin with the ability to imitate sounds; turn-taking
skills (learned through games such as peek-a-boo); visual skills (looking at
the speaker and looking at objects); auditory skills (listening to speech sounds);
tactile skills (learning about touch, exploring objects in the mouth); oral
motor skills (using the tongue, moving lips); and cognitive skills
(understanding object permanence, cause and effect relationships).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Parents and caregivers are the primary communicators
interacting with their babies and young children. There is a great deal of
things that you can do to help your children learn to communicate. Here are
some tips to help enhance your child’s speech and language skills:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 14.05pt 67.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo1; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 67.5pt; text-indent: -22.5pt;">
<span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">§<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Remember
that language is more than spoken words. When you are modeling words keep in
mind that language can be reciprocated through gestures and facial expressions
as well. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 14.05pt 67.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo1; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 67.5pt; text-indent: -22.5pt;">
<span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">§<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Provide
many models. Many times repetitions and experiences are needed to happen in
order to learn a word. Repeat and model what your child says.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 14.05pt 67.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo1; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 67.5pt; text-indent: -22.5pt;">
<span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">§<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Use
real objects and real situations. When you are teaching a concept, use daily
activities and real situations as much as possible. For example, teach the
names of foods as your toddler is eating them. Name and ask them to identify
body parts while you are bathing your child. It is important to keep in mind
that communication is part of yours and your child’s daily life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 14.05pt 67.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo1; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 67.5pt; text-indent: -22.5pt;">
<span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">§<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Make
reading to your child part of your daily routine. Reading is a very enriching
learning experience. Reading can simply be looking at the pictures and making
up a story of your own. Asking your child to point to pictures in the book and
eventually name them. Remember that this should be a fun time for both you and
your child but keep in mind that offering information rather than drilling with
questions is the best approach. This will put less pressure on your child and make
them more comfortable to begin talking to you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 14.05pt 67.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo1; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 67.5pt; text-indent: -22.5pt;">
<span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">§<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Follow
your child's lead. If your child shows interest in an object, person or event,
build off of that and provide them with a word for that concept. There are many
milestones as the child progresses towards using speech. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 14.05pt 67.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo1; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 67.5pt; text-indent: -22.5pt;">
<span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">§<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Most
importantly, take the time to get down to your child’s level and HAVE FUN playing with them. Learning happens through play!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">If you have any
questions or concerns about your child’s development, reach out to your
pediatrician or you can also contact the Family Center at Northwestern
Counseling & Support Services and speak with the Children’s Integrated
Services Intake Coordinator, Heather Wilson, at (802) 393-6601.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">____________________________________________________________________<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Submitted by
Liza Boudreau, Children’s Integrated Services, Early Interventionist, NCSS
Children, Youth & Family Services Division.</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
NCSShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05098122055955158807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1671395246976920018.post-40441226755086989662013-01-17T09:01:00.000-08:002013-01-17T09:01:57.614-08:00Wintertime Family Fun!<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">It's
finally winter in Franklin County and you are wondering what my family can do
during this winter season. In Franklin County there is plenty to do
whether you are more inclined to spend your time playing in the snow or keeping
warm inside your home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For those who
love to spend time outside I suggest exploring some of the numerous
opportunities available in our community;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: x-small;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Hard'ack is
located in St. Albans at 179 Congress Street. Hard'ack provides
great winter activities such as sliding, downhill skiing, snowboarding,
ice skating, snowshoeing and cross country skiing on the numerous trails
on the backside of the hill. There hours of operation are Thursday-Friday
4:00pm-9:00pm; Saturday 12:00pm-9:00pm; and Sunday 12:00pm-5:00pm. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Best of all the recreation at Hard'ack is
free of charge!<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Jay Peak and
Smuggler's Notch are close by and offer downhill skiing and snowboarding
for beginners and experts. Keep your eyes open for discount deals
for Vermonters and daily deals which can be found on LivingSocial,
802shopping, Localvore Today, and Today's jumponit Deals. This will
certainly save you a little bit of money. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">The Missisquoi
Rail Trail is 26 miles long and can be used for snowshoeing and
snowmobiling. You can find several pull offs to park your vehicle
and begin your adventure. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">The Missisquoi
National Wildlife Refuge is open year round and will provide a great place
to go snowshoeing. It is located on Tabor Road in Swanton. Visit the
Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge website; </span><a href="http://www.fws.gov/northeast/missisquoi/" title="blocked::http://www.fws.gov/northeast/missisquoi/"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #00545e;">http://www.fws.gov/northeast/missisquoi/</span></span></a><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to read the activities newsletter and
their upcoming events. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Hazen's Notch
which is located in Montgomery and has great trails for cross-country
skiing, snowshoeing, and educational programs. Visit their
website; </span><a href="http://www.hazensnotch.org/"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #00545e;">www.hazensnotch.org</span></span></a><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> to learn about
their events taking place throughout winter. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Ice
fishing for Trout, Salmon, Bass on various different points around Lake
Champlain. Before heading out please adhere to Vermont Fish &
Wildlife Department regulations and recommendations. <o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: x-small;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Please remember before going outside to wear the proper
gear to keep yourself and family safe and protected. </span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: x-small;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Now for those who enjoy the warmth of their own home or
want to travel out into the community here are a few ideas;<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: x-small;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> There
are many play groups/story times available to all families in each
town. </span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="circle">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level2 lfo2; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">The
St. Albans Playgroup located at the NCSS Family Center, 130 Fisher Pond
Road. Children and care providers are invited to playgroup, which is
every Wednesday morning from 9:00-10:30am. </span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level2 lfo2; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">A
mother of Preschoolers (MOPS) is located at 1091 Fairfax Road in St.
Albans. Moms meet for creative activities, advice, encouragement,
and a light lunch. The mothers meet the first and third Friday of
the month from 8:45-11:00am. </span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level2 lfo2; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Another
MOPS group is held in the Richford/Enosburg area at the Lighthouse
Assembly of God on 878 Horseshoes Road in East Berkshire. The
meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month. </span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level2 lfo2; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Attend
a Children's Story hour/playgroups at a library;</span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="square">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level3 lfo2; tab-stops: list 1.5in;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">St.
Albans City Free Library is located at 11 Maiden Lane. A story hour is
held Monday and Thursday from 10:30-11:30am. Children 0-6 and care
providers are welcome to join. </span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level3 lfo2; tab-stops: list 1.5in;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Swanton
Public Library located at 1 First Street has a story hour for children
0-5 on Wednesday's at 10:00am. </span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level3 lfo2; tab-stops: list 1.5in;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Fairfax
Community Playgroup located at 17 Hunt Street has a playgroup for
children 0-6 and is every Friday from 9:00-10:30am. Enjoy circle time,
free play, and a snack is provided. </span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level3 lfo2; tab-stops: list 1.5in;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Georgia
Public Library located at 1697 Ethan Allen Highway, offers preschool
story time for preschooler on Friday morning at 10:00am. Success by Six
Pajama Story time is also offered every third Tuesday from 6:30 to
7:30pm. The Library offers Family Game Night every second Wednesday
6:30-7:30pm. </span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level3 lfo2; tab-stops: list 1.5in;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">RU12
Rainbow Reading Hour at the Bent Northrop Memorial Library located at
164 Park Street in Fairfield, offers to all children at 6:00pm every
first and third Monday from 6:00-7:00pm. </span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level2 lfo2; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">A
fun round of bowling at the St. Albans Bowling Center located at 133
North Main Street would be a great adventure.</span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level2 lfo2; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">A
matinee at the Welden Theater located on Main Street in St. Albans could
be a great afternoon activity. </span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level2 lfo2; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Yoga
Tots in Highgate at the community room in the Town Office. Yoga
Tots is offered the first Saturday of the month at 9:00am. It is
designed for ages 3-6 and registration is required. To register for
Yoga Tots call 868-3970 or email Liza at </span></span><a href="mailto:highgatepublic@comcast.net" title="blocked::mailto:highgatepublic@comcast.net"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #00545e;">highgatepublic@comcast.net</span></span></a><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">.<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level2 lfo2; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Water
Babies at Branon’s Pools on Thursday at 6pm. Building Bright Futures
created an opportunity for care providers and babies to enjoy fun and
fitness together.<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
</ul>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: x-small;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Begin
a story hour at your own home with your children. Have hot chocolate
while reading a book and follow up with an activity, maybe lacing mittens
for a fine motor activity?</span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: x-small;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Please
keep yourself and your family informed of ongoing events by Building Bright
Futures. You can read more at </span><a href="http://www.buildingbrightfutures.org/"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #00545e;">www.buildingbrightfutures.org/</span></span></a><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">.<br clear="all" style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">If you have any
questions or concerns about your child’s development, reach out to your
pediatrician or you can also contact the Family Center at Northwestern
Counseling & Support Services and speak with the Children’s Integrated
Services Coordinator, Heather Wilson, at (802) 393-6601.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">____________________________________________________________________<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Submitted by
Amber Stowe, Children’s Integrated Services, Early Childhood and Family Case
Manager, NCSS Children, Youth & Family Services Division.</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
NCSShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05098122055955158807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1671395246976920018.post-42757599779065140732012-12-20T08:16:00.000-08:002012-12-20T08:16:20.963-08:00Healthy Sleep for Families
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ot48a5OP1Ba-fAMl1YayS_xlBPB9H6MeMi4_wFDSf_EI1k52yNV-VWUwfCHkcnSuaiPnl0y4JsufhViBvYTWveEK3oQef0PUSQGS34B2TCcUzEFAGryylXUFlFa2CpcK66ebmOy7Tms/s1600/InfantTowel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ot48a5OP1Ba-fAMl1YayS_xlBPB9H6MeMi4_wFDSf_EI1k52yNV-VWUwfCHkcnSuaiPnl0y4JsufhViBvYTWveEK3oQef0PUSQGS34B2TCcUzEFAGryylXUFlFa2CpcK66ebmOy7Tms/s320/InfantTowel.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">Healthy
Sleep for Families<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Sleep is a vital part of good health and well-being, and
it is important to develop healthy sleep patterns for your children at an early
age.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many parents and caregivers have
questions around the amount of sleep a child needs and how to support better
sleep patterns.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The amount of sleep
varies for each child.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Typically
newborns sleep 16 hours a day, two year-olds sleep 11 ½ hours a day, and four
year olds sleep 11 hours a day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Helping
your child obtain the right amount of sleep for their body can also help avoid
behavioral issues associated with inadequate sleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Below are a few tips and recommendations on
healthy sleep for families with young children:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Prepare the environment: Make sure the child
has a space ready for sleep before you start the bedtime routine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It should be quiet, dark, and not too hot or
cold.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Set a consistent schedule: Start the bedtime
routine at the same time each night.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Prepare the child: End the day with a quiet
activity, such as a bath or reading a book, to help your child settle
down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Teach your child the Pajama Rule,
where there are no loud and energetic activities once the pajamas are put on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children can follow a visual schedule with
pictures to let them know what happens next in the evenings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Support your child with using the bathroom
beforehand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Create a nurturing routine: Many children
love to read books with their parents/caregivers or talk about their day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Share a positive moment from the day with
your child and let them know what to expect tomorrow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Turn off the television: Television can be a
distraction to falling asleep, and the light emitted by a television is
counterproductive to our body’s ability to generate melatonin, which
communicates to our body that it is time to sleep.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Make the room comfortable: White noise from a
fan can help a child ease into sleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Darkness can be scary for some children, and night lights can be
reassuring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Stay patient but firm: Stick to the schedule
and limits, so your child does not create a pattern of leaving their bedroom
for attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Redirect your child to
bed quietly, without reinforcing their behavior with a lot of conversation or
emotion.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Developing healthy sleep patterns can take time for young
children, and it is normal to see changes from time to time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A great place to ask questions about your
child’s sleep and health is with your pediatrician at your regular well-child
visits and developmental screening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
can also contact the Parent Child Center at Northwestern Counseling &
Support Services and speak with the Children’s Integrated Services Coordinator,
Heather Wilson, at (802) 393-6601 if you have additional questions or concerns
with your child’s development.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Sources: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Bright
Futures</i>, American Academy of Pediatrics; Zero to Three National Center for
Infants, Toddlers, and Families; <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Solve
Your Child’s Sleep Problems</i>, Richard Ferber, M.D. Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">____________________________________________________________________<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Submitted by
Heather Wilson, Children’s Integrated Services Coordinator, NCSS Children,
Youth & Family Services Division.</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
NCSShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05098122055955158807noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1671395246976920018.post-20494859929535548722012-11-28T10:43:00.001-08:002012-11-28T11:07:32.552-08:00Forming Healthy Attachments<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Many parents express concerns that they are not doing enough to help their young children develop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fact is, that one of the most important things that parents can do to support healthy development in their children is to express their love and affection towards their children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Studies have shown connections not only between love and healthy attachment and emotional development, but also between love and healthy brain development.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Children need to form healthy attachments early in their lives to help them create a strong foundation for emotional well-being throughout their lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Young children need repetition of positive, warm experiences with their caregivers to help them develop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Playing peek-a-boo, singing songs, reading books, and playing silly games that are enjoyable for the child and for the parent will help support the child’s healthy development.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Expressing love and affection is one of the most important things parents can do for their children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For many parents this may come naturally, but this can be challenging for some parents if they are facing challenges with their own mental and/or physical health or if the children are displaying challenging behavior or do not express love and affection toward their parents the way the parents hope they will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This can happen if the children are experiencing mental and/or physical health challenges, or if they have developmental differences that impact how they experience or express affection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Early experiences of trauma can also impact a child’s brain development.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children who experience a lot of stress as infants, even if they do not have explicit memories of these events, have high levels of cortisol secreted into their brain which negatively impacts brain functioning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">If you would like support forming healthy connections with your children, or if you have concerns about your child’s ability to form healthy connections with you, contact Northwestern Counseling & Support Services or speak to your child’s pediatrician.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The contact at the NCSS Family Center is Heather Wilson, Children’s Integrated Services, Intake Coordinator, at 802-393-6601. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">____________________________________________________________________</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Submitted by Annie Corrigan, CIS Early Intervention Developmental Educator, NCSS Children, Youth & Family Services Division.</span></span></div>
NCSShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05098122055955158807noreply@blogger.com0