Thursday, April 24, 2008

Family forum leads to one-day conference

As April winds down, and military installations bid farewell to Child Abuse Prevention Month and its Month of the Military Child program, organizations from Belvoir and Fort Myer are teaming up for a very poignant goodbye.

It’s called Parent University - a one-day conference where adults can attend seminars and gather information on being a healthy and successful family. It’s scheduled for Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Barden Education Center.

In just its second year, the program has taken off in popularity and has attracted individuals of all ages, according to Patricia Shamburger, a member of Fort Belvoir’s Family Advocacy Program.

“It’s been fantastic and everyone who has participated has shown a lot of enthusiasm,” Shamburger said. “This year, we’re planning 13 mini-seminars on a variety of topics that will help strengthen the concept of family life. The feedback has been great and we’re expecting another big turnout of both young and older parents.”

One of those teaching will be Lisa Yenter, a community educator from Fort Myer’s Family Advocacy Program. She will teach a seminar on stress management.

“We’ll teach people ways on identifying and relieving the harmful stress in their lives,” Yenter said. “That can be done through several techniques, such as imagery or breathing. Stress can be overwhelming and can lead to other problems in the family. That’s why it’s important to have a handle on it.”

To ensure things are moving along in the right direction, Yenter said it’s not uncommon for members of Family Advocacy to follow up with individuals after an initial visit. So, after Tuesday’s conference, no one should be surprised if they receive a phone call to see how things are going. 

“It’s our way of checking in and letting people know we’re still here if they need us,” Yenter said. “Those follow-ups are important. It maintains our relationship with the community, but it also keeps the dialogue open and informal. In my experience, everyone has been very receptive and appreciative of the extra effort.”

The event, which is free and open to the public, has another bonus. Free childcare vouchers are being offered to those who participate, though spaces are filling up quickly, Shamburger said. For further information on the event, call the Fort Belvoir Family Advocacy Program at 703-805-2781.

The following seminars will be offered through Parent University Tuesday:

The spiritual life of children: Participants will explore the spiritual framework of a child. Where does the training, influence and understanding of God come from in a child’s life?
Baby signs: Helping babies talk-before they can talk: Learn the benefits of using sign language with your infant and toddlers. Parents will also be introduced to different songs that can be used at home.

Helping your child succeed in elementary school: Learn helpful tips on how to work with your child’s teacher and how to facilitate solid academic success. 
Dealing with difficult people: Through the adventures of Christopher Robin and Winnie the Pooh, this class presents a lighthearted, entertaining look at how to identify and deal with difficult behaviors.

Parenting thorough independence: An open dialogue on the journey parents and teenagers take for a successful transition into young adulthood.
Safety advocacy and education for parents of children with autism and other cognitive disabilities: Learn how to identify problems and find effective programs or resources that may help your special needs child reach his/her full potential.

How to talk to your kids about drugs: This seminar provides parents with knowledge about drugs, inhalants and alcohol use among kids.
The power of commitment in a marriage and family: This class challenges participants’ desire for a deeper relationship and offer a three-step plan for discovering the beauty of lifelong love and commitment.

Stress management: This seminar teaches participants effective methods of recognizing and dealing with stress.
Solve and Development play: Parents will gain effective parenting skills and knowledge for dealing with their toddlers. They will also learn fun and age-appropriate development songs and games.

Supporting your child’s education in a military environment: This course reinforces the importance of parental involvement in a child’s education. It also provides an overview of the school liaison officer’s role in assisting Army families.

Dads coming together: This fun and informal seminar highlights the roles and responsibilities of being a dad.
Spouse battle mind: This seminar is an overview of pre- and post-deployment spouse battle mind, which is an acronym to help prepare for deployment-related concerns and to help with reuniting after deployment.