Ngā mihi mahana ki a koutou katoa / Warm greetings to you all,
In my work, I find myself regularly going back to a great book: Kim Golding’s “Nurturing Attachments – Supporting children who are fostered or adopted”. Every time I read it; I find another nugget of gold. One of those nuggets I’ve been reflecting on is what Kim refers to as the “Volcano model” (by Betsy Bruas). The cycle of “Calmness – Trigger – Build-up – Explosion – Wind-down – Remorse – Calmness – Trigger etc. As you can see it’s like a whole cycle of a volcano.
Teena Bennett
North West RC
06 281 1642 or 027 285 6015
This group of words could be a great guide for korero (conversation) with your rangatahi (young person) about their, and our cycle of emotions when triggered by big feelings and things outside of our control. I know in listening and chatting with some of our wonderful Caregivers across our region, you’ll identify with this cycle in the tamariki (children) that you care for. I’m happy to chat further with you about this model and suggested responses if you ever want, just call.
Also, you might want to check out Sarah Naish. Do a Google search, she’s a UK foster parent who also has some excellent resources for caregivers and children in care.
This month we take a day out to celebrate our Dads (Pāpā).
I would like to pay homage to all our Foster Dads. These are the men, who to be fair, don’t always sign up for the job. They get the role by default through some epiphany that befalls their lovely wives or partners. And bless their hearts not only do they agree to become Foster Dads, but they do an amazing job at it! Foster Dads: You role model the patience, kindness and caring that real men share. So, Foster Dads … Thank you! You are truly awesome!
Regional Committee News
Janine Vollebregt recently resigned from the Northwest Regional Committee. A warm thank you to Janine for her enthusiasm on the committee and for holding the well-being of caregivers in our region as a focus in her time on the committee.
Are you an ideas person who would like to be part of a small team that supports caregivers gathering and engaging together! If you are interested, please do not hesitate to give me a call or click the button below for more information:
Support Groups
Remember: Caregivers are welcome to set up Support Groups – these might be based on child age ranges, specific needs, caregiver types (permanent / emergency / transitional), location or more!
To register a Support Group click the button below:
To find a Support Group in your area click the button below:
Training
There are still some trainings available in September which I hope some of you may find helpful and useful in your caregiving journey. Click the button below to register!
We will be taking every precaution with cleaning surfaces etc but please do feel comfortable about wearing a mask and gloves if you wish.
Dates for your diary
PACE Support Group
Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, Empathy
Join other caregivers for support and a focus on trauma informed care.
– Wednesday 16 September
Time: 10.30am
Location: Caring Families Aotearoa office, Taranaki Disability and Info Centre, 28 Young Street, New Plymouth (Walk around to the back of the building through the glass door)
Coffee and tea provided.
Any questions, please contact: Teenab@caringfamilies.org.nz or 0272856015.
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
Diane facilitates the group on Thursdays once a fortnight. It’s a supportive and informal environment where like-minded caregivers can gather.
Term 3 Dates:
– 3 & 17 September
Time: 9.30am
Venue: Barnardo Meeting Room, 186 Tukapa Street, Westown, New Plymouth
Contact Diane Richardson: dianebazuka@gmail.com or 0211851097.
Caregiver Group – Whanganui
Come along and join us for a cuppa, chat and support.
Date: 8 September
Time: 1.00pm – 2.45pm
Location: Haheke Library, Haheke Street, Whanganui East
Pre-schoolers welcome.
Any questions please contact: Teenab@caringfamilies.org.nz or 0272856015.
Ka kite,
Teena
Have you joined our closed Facebook Group?
As a member of Caring Families Aotearoa you have exclusive access to our CLOSED Facebook groups. These are only open to caregivers that are members of Caring Families Aotearoa. This allows our members a platform to seek support, information and resources.
Click the link below to join!