Seeking Support Is the Key to Supporting Your Child

Whether you call the coordinated access social worker, or visit our walk-in counselling clinic, a member of our team will take the time to get to know you and your child. Together, they will work with your family to develop a plan, track progress, and make changes as needed.

Coming to the Regional Children’s Centre for the first time can bring up many emotions. One of the best ways to ease your child’s anxiety is to help them understand what to expect beforehand. Here are some helpful tips:

• Talk about the visit ahead of time and answer their questions.
• Involve them in the process and make sure they feel heard.
• Reassure them that this is a safe place where families go to get support.
• Let them know they’ll talk to someone from our team who is there to listen, support, and help.
• Encourage them to bring something comforting, like a toy or a book.
• Remind your child that trying new things is a positive step forward.
• Explain that with time and working together, they can feel better.

Regardless of your child's age, listen and validate their feelings, reminding them that seeking help is a sign of strength.

Maybe you feel that asking for help means that you are unable to be the parent your child needs you to be. These kinds of worries are common. Talk to your worker about your concerns and what you are looking for as a family – they are there to help you along the way.

It is essential that everyone – parents/caregivers, children, and our team – actively participates, attends scheduled appointments, and follows through with any recommended activities, tasks, or tools to try.

Missing sessions can slow down the progress and the positive changes your family is working towards. Sign up for appointment reminders to help organize your child’s schedule.

Treatment sessions may feel demanding, and you or your child may be asked to practice things that don't feel natural at first. Talk with your worker to create a plan for overcoming any challenges.

It is also important to understand that much of your child’s treatment will occur at home and in the community. If your child attends appointments regularly and you both practice the skills at home, you will see positive changes over time.

Taking care of yourself as a parent or caregiver is extra important when your child is struggling with their mental health. Caring for your family starts with caring for yourself. Self-care helps you stay healthy, balanced, and resilient.

Prioritize eating well, getting rest, talking to others, and doing things you enjoy—even if it's just for a few minutes a day.

Caregiver and Family Peer Support

• RCC Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Family Peer Support - Call 519-257-KIDS (5437) for more information.
• Interwoven Connections - Peer Support & Resources
  
• Parents and Caregivers for Mental Health (PCMH) - Caregiver Peer Support
• Parents' Lifeline (Pleo) - Family Peer Support
• WE Connect Kids - Resources

As a parent, you want to do what’s best for your child, but parenting isn't always easy. Parenting and caregiver programs can provide support, practical strategies, and opportunities to connect with others who may be facing similar challenges.

Learn more on our Parenting & Caregiver Programs webpage. 

We recognize that parents and caregivers offer valuable perspectives shaped by their lived experiences. We are committed to actively listening to and learning from clients, family members, and caregivers to improve our services.

Our goal is to make family involvement a key part of everything we do, from the first contact through to ongoing support and treatment. This means ensuring families are included in decisions every step of the way.

We encourage anyone who is interested to apply.