Parent to Parent

Today's episode is the audio from our Spring DASD & CTC Parent Speaker Series focused on how much influence parents really have - even if it feels like we don't! Join us to learn more about how you have the power to help your child make smarter, safer choices. Your influence can save lives ... perhaps even your child's. Our featured speaker, Beth Bruton from Holcomb Behavioral Health Systems, is sharing MADD's Power of Parents® program which empowers parents of middle school and high school students to have ongoing, intentional conversations about the dangers and consequences of underage drinking and other drug use. You can also join CTC's Parent to Parent group meeting on Tuesday, May 6th at Marsh Creek 6th Grade Center at 6:30pm to discuss and ask questions about Power of Parents. Register Here.    Things we mentioned in this episode:   Watch the webinar of this presentation HERE.   Please see the presentation slides here   MADD Power of Parents    Middle School Handbook   High School Handbook Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeok9Z1R_xkbYmMFlcXjOZw Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Talking about sexual health is so much more than just going over how reproduction works. Relationships, safety, personal boundaries, porn (more than half of kids have seen porn by the time they are 13!) and so many other topics are related! That is why we are so thankful to talk with Deni Tobin, the Violence Prevention Education Supervisor at our partner the Crime Victims Center of Chester County. Deni facilitates CVC's “Smarter Parents” program that empowers parents to talk to their kids of all ages about sexual health and development. Deni shares key points of the program including: how to keep an open connection with your child, safety with strangers especially on the internet, consent, and how to be more comfortable talking about what can feel like a “cringe” topic. We also talk about staying shame free, how to deal with learning about sex online, and SKIBIDI TOILET - if you know you know! Join us!     Things we mentioned in this episode:   It's So Amazing Book and Series by Robie H. Harris   The report, "Teens and Pornography," found that 73% of teen respondents age 13 to 17 have watched pornography online—and more than half (54%) reported first seeing pornography by the time they reached the age of 13. Read more here from Common Sense Media.   If you are interested in a program or contacting Deni please email education@cvcofcc.org    Follow CVC on FaceBook to stay updated on dates for the next Smarter Parents program and other events!   The Crime Victims' Center of Chester County, Inc. (CVC) is a nonprofit agency providing free, immediate, and confidential crisis response and compassionate support to children and adults impacted by sexual violence and all other crime. We provide assistance through counseling, advocacy, resources, and education. The Center fosters community awareness and understanding through its comprehensive outreach and prevention programs.   Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeok9Z1R_xkbYmMFlcXjOZw Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

What does it mean to be California Sober? Marijuana or cannabis is available in so many forms now: edibles, tinctures, vaping oils, and dry leaf. It is also becoming more acceptable as a substance of use. Today we have Kim Porter and Bob Lamb from our partner Be A Part of the Conversation here with us to talk about this California Sober trend as well as harm reduction, how using high THC products is not the same as marijuana from the past, and the mental health risks that come with cannabis use including an overall sense of apathy. We also talk about how parents can role model responsible use of marijuana if they have a medical marijuana card and the dopamine of it all. We touched on so many topics in this conversation, join us!   Things we mentioned in this episode:   Kim was our first guest on the podcast!   Chrissie's blog post about the weed coffee mug   Kim talked about the increase in cannabis use   Cannabis hyperemsis syndrome    Dopamine Nation by Anna Lembke  Be a Part of the Conversation  equips families and communities in Pennsylvania with skills and resources to understand substance use, addiction, and related health issues. We provide community programs, foster supportive connections, highlight lived experiences, and challenge stigma.   Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeok9Z1R_xkbYmMFlcXjOZw Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Our DASD Helpers are back on the podcast today! This is part two of our two-part series, and Sarah Brooks returns this time with several of her Prevention Specialist staff that work in the elementary school buildings: Erin Connolly, LCSW, C-SSWS, CYT (Lionville and Shamona Creek Elementary); Rena Davis, LSW (Bradford Heights and Pickering Creek Elementary); Laura Sirico, LSW, MEd, HSV, C-SSWS (East Ward and Springton Manor Elementary); and Natalie Martinez, LSW, HSV (Beaver Creek and Uwchlan Hills Elementary). We learn about the role Prevention Specialists play in the K-5 buildings, how they support students and when and for what parents can reach out to them for help. We also discuss trends and real life examples of what it looks like if your child were to work with a Prevention Specialist individually or in a group with their peers. DASD is lucky to have such caring, supportive staff in their schools. Join us to learn more about these amazing helpers! Things we mentioned in this episode:   You can email or call your school's Prevention Specialist if you are concerned about your child. Find contact information for all Prevention Specialists here.    Erin mentioned the 3 R's: Regulate, Relate, Reason   SAP-Student Assistance Program   Previous Episodes with Sarah:  Find the DASD Helpers How Our Youth Really Feel About Substances and More: Breaking Down PAYS Data Part 1 Our Kid's Mental Health Status & Simple Tips for Parents: Breaking Down PAYS Data Part 2   Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeok9Z1R_xkbYmMFlcXjOZw Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

We have more DASD Helpers on the podcast today! The first of a two part series, Sarah Brooks returns with several of her Prevention Specialist staff that work in the high school buildings: Matt McFadden, MSS, LCSW (Downingtown West High School), Jocelyn White, MEd, LPC,  (Downingtown West High School) and Jennifer Stull, MA, LPC (STEM). We learn about the role Prevention Specialists play in their buildings, how they support students and when and for what parents can reach out to them for help. We also discuss trends they are seeing in students and how they help students during the school day. DASD is lucky to have such caring, supportive staff in their schools. Join us to learn more about these amazing helpers! Things we mentioned in this episode:   You can email or call your school's Prevention Specialist if you are concerned about your child. Find contact information for all Prevention Specialists here.    SAP-Student Assistance Program   MTSS - Multi Tiered System of Support   Signs of Suicide Prevention Program that is implemented in DASD   Previous Episodes with Sarah:  Find the DASD Helpers How Our Youth Really Feel About Substances and More: Breaking Down PAYS Data Part 1 Our Kid's Mental Health Status & Simple Tips for Parents: Breaking Down PAYS Data Part 2   Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeok9Z1R_xkbYmMFlcXjOZw Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

How can we increase our happiness? Selena Morresi, from Caron Treatment Centers, is here with us today to talk about where we are with our baseline happiness, the barriers to getting happy and ways to support increasing our happiness levels. Selena explains to us what “miswanting” is and how it impacts happiness–and the things that make us miswant. We also discuss the hedonic baseline and helper's euphoria (what now?!), the universal love of Costco, and ways to cultivate happiness FOR REAL in our daily lives. Join us!     Things we mentioned in this episode:   Previous Episodes with Selena: Vaping Myths and Facts Part 1 and Part 2 and All Thing Vaping: Essentials Parents Need to Know   The Happiness Lab Podcast with Laurie Santos   World Happiness Report 2024   Blue Zones around the world    CTC has monthly in person parent group meetings - Parent to Parent Building Connections   Caron's mission is to transform lives impacted by drug and alcohol addiction through proven, evidence-based, comprehensive, and personalized behavioral healthcare. Caron also offers prevention and education programs for schools and communities.    Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeok9Z1R_xkbYmMFlcXjOZw Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

You are only as happy as your happiest kid, the saying goes–this quote came up in this conversation and we discussed why this is a terrible quote! Today we have Maggie Burchill with us from Caron Treatment Centers to discuss strategies to be ok when we have a partner, child or other family member or friend going through a difficult time like substance use disorder or mental health challenges. Maggie shares with us what family recovery is and looks like, and how addiction is a disease and every family member plays a role–whether they realize it or not. We also discuss how recovery for everyone is not a “one and done” thing and this work is lifelong. We also discuss ways to find peace and ease–our collective favorite mantra. Join us! Things we mentioned in this episode:   The book Codependent No More by Melody Beattie   Peaceful Barb on instagram - a great follow!   The book The Craving Mind by Dr. Jud Brewer   The book Atomic Habits by James Clear   Alanon Support Groups Caron has free support groups for Parents   CTC has monthly in person parent group meetings - Parent to Parent Building Connections   Caron's mission is to transform lives impacted by drug and alcohol addiction through proven, evidence-based, comprehensive, and personalized behavioral healthcare. Caron also offers prevention and education programs for schools and communities.    Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeok9Z1R_xkbYmMFlcXjOZw Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

We are excited to welcome our friend and colleague Kathy Collier to the podcast to share with us what is happening in Chester County regarding opioid and fentanyl use–both intentional and accidental use. We discussed what opioids are, how the overdose epidemic is still happening, and how the drug landscape is MUCH different than when we were teens. Kathy also explained how to talk to your kids about opioids, fentanyl, and xylazine, and how it is showing up in other substances that are NOT opioids. This conversation was empowering in providing ways to stay safe and realistic–and the golden rule: no pills and powders and nothing that isn't yours! Join us! Things we mentioned in this episode:   Kathy works for the Chester County Department of Drug and Alcohol Services.    We talked about Narcan and how it is available through the county.   Chester County Information and Resource Line 1-866-286-3767   24/7 PA get help now 1-800-662-HELP Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeok9Z1R_xkbYmMFlcXjOZw LinkedIn:  Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes! Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Learn where to get help this coming school year.   --    "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” (Gotta love Mr. Rogers!) Today we are speaking with two of Downingtown Area School District's (DASD) biggest helpers, Sarah Brooks, Lead Student Assistance Specialist, and Mary Wallin, K-12 Department Leader for School Counselors. Sarah and Mary are sharing with us the roles of Prevention Specialists and School Counselors, as well as other district staff they may work with to support a student and family. We learn the trends they are seeing in school right now, both positives and challenges and how to access local resources. Sarah and Mary also give us the steps on how to handle common struggles including: how to help your child who may be ok in school but is emotionally and behaviorally different at home, what to do if your child doesn't want to attend school, and how to work with the school team if your child will be missing school for a prolonged period of time. This conversation truly shows the team approach taken at DASD and how parents can best communicate with their school-based supports. Join us!   Things we mentioned in this episode:   Counseling Staff at DASD   Prevention Specialist Staff at DASD Behavior Specialists at DASD   Mental Health Services at DASD   Psychology Today has a search tool to find providers near you that do and do not take insurance.    CTC is launching Parent to Parent Peer Support Groups to provide a safe space for parents to get advice and support from other parents. Learn more about these groups and when they meet!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE.   

Well you drank in high school, right? You smoked weed before, right? These questions are bound to come to you from your kids at some point, and what IS the best way to answer these? We are so happy to welcome back Beth Bruton from Holcomb Prevention to share with us ways to answer these questions honestly without “do as I say, not as I did” vibes. Beth shares how she had this conversation with her own kids and their reactions, plus Chrissie and Bethann share a funny story about the learning opportunities that abound in a tailgating parking lot. We also discuss balancing having the expectation of not using substances while also being a safe person for your child to call when they need help or if they do choose to use. Lastly, Beth shares her list of best tips from years of working in the prevention field. This is a very honest and relatable conversation with lots of laughs, join us!   Things we mentioned in this episode:   We have a great episode with Beth answering the question “Do all kids drink in high school?”   Beth and Chrissie were on a panel for a Power of Parents webinar event.  Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeok9Z1R_xkbYmMFlcXjOZw LinkedIn:  Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

What if there was a place you can go to and talk about your parenting challenges and have other parents to nod along, give advice, and also have a seasoned professional there too to give expert guidance? Would you go? Well it DOES exist and it is CTC's monthly  (FREE) Parent to Parent Building Connections groups. Today we are speaking with 4 Downingtown parents who are regular participants and they are sharing the impact these group meetings have had on their parenting and overall well being. They share about the magic of Carol (the expert facilitator), that no issue is too big or too small, and the benefits of hearing from other parents who are ahead of you. We also discuss top strategies learned, key phrases to use to problem solve with your kids, red flags to notice, and the community and friendships that have been built through these groups. This conversation is so uplifting and relatable and shows the positive impact of belonging to a community. Join us! Things we mentioned in this episode:   We talked about the parent group facilitator Carol Rothera and our podcast episode with her.    Chrissie mentioned the podcast Kelly Corrigan Wonders and the episode with Jen Hatmaker   Use your BUTT: Breath, Understand, Think, Talk   Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeok9Z1R_xkbYmMFlcXjOZw LinkedIn:  Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Did you know most parents ALREADY have all the skills to parent their kids and teach them life skills? Dr. Don McCown, PhD, MSS, LSW, sits down with Bethann and Chrissie to share about his new (FREE!) online parenting program, Learning Life Skills Together. Don shares that all parents have four key skills that can support children to learn emotional life skills–paying attention, regulating emotion, tolerating distress, and clearly communicating–we just may need to practice these skills to build them up. They also discuss how a child's resilience is based on the resiliency of their parents and how honing these skills is helpful to move through the world with more ease. Lastly, Don shares how awe and beauty, making things and belonging are invaluable to health and wellness. Also listen to learn Don's 20 minute rule–join us! Things we mentioned in this episode:   Don's Online Program Learning Life Skills Together is FREE and available now to start using!   Chrissie mentioned the book Never Enough by Jennifer Wallace   Bethann mentioned the CDC's report on the loneliness epidemic and the impact on health    Don shares the national mental health crisis resource 988–it is free and 24/7 support–just dial 988 on your phone.    CTC's 3rd Annual Snowball Shuffle 5K Run/1 Mile Walk is Sat. March 2nd at Eagleview Town Center. Join us and bring the whole family!    Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Today we are learning how to find joy in the chaos, including refilling our EXTRA–which our guest Rosey Celommi will explain what this EXTRA is and how we all need to care for it. Rosey is an educator of over 25 years and she previously taught and worked in Chester County. In the past few years Rosey has been on a mission to help educators care for themselves to deal with and prevent burnout. Just about all of these principles apply to parents too! Rosey shares ways to figure out what brings you joy and how to nurture it, how to integrate a mindfulness and gratitude practice into your day, and how to create joy in the chaos of our busy lives. Join us!   Things we mentioned in this episode:   Chrissie mentioned a previous blog post   Rosey mentioned Jon Kabat-Zinn as a leader of mindfulness and the developer of mindfulness based stress reduction   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Well you drank in high school, right? You smoked weed before, right? These questions are bound to come to you from your kids at some point, and what IS the best way to answer these? We are so happy to welcome back Beth Bruton from Holcomb Prevention to share with us ways to answer these questions honestly without “do as I say, not as I did” vibes. Beth shares how she had this conversation with her own kids and their reactions, plus Chrissie and Bethann share a funny story about the learning opportunities that abound in a tailgating parking lot. We also discuss balancing having the expectation of not using substances while also being a safe person for your child to call when they need help or if they do choose to use. Lastly, Beth shares her list of best tips from years of working in the prevention field. This is a very honest and relatable conversation with lots of laughs, join us!   Things we mentioned in this episode:   We have a great episode with Beth answering the question “Do all kids drink in high school?”   Beth and Chrissie were on a panel for a Power of Parents webinar event.  Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeok9Z1R_xkbYmMFlcXjOZw LinkedIn:  Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Carol is BACK and she is sharing her wisdom with us yet again! Today we are talking about Red Flags–behaviors or other things you may notice in your child–and when to act. Carol shares the importance of waiting in some instances when you notice red flags so kids can first combat these challenges independently–and the value of this. We also discuss what to do at times when you need to step in, and how to tell the difference between concerning mood changes and those that may be normal tween and teen moodiness. Lastly we discuss how to “be an investigator” to figure out what these red flags are pointing to and Carol shares real life examples from parents and how things played out. Join us!    Things we mentioned in this episode:   Chrissie mentioned the podcast episode with DASD parents from the Parent Groups.    Carol mentioned our podcast episode with her.    WAIT: Why Am I Talking   BUTT: Breath, Understand, Think, Talk   Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeok9Z1R_xkbYmMFlcXjOZw LinkedIn:  Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

What if there was a place you can go to and talk about your parenting challenges and have other parents to nod along, give advice, and also have a seasoned professional there too to give expert guidance? Would you go? Well it DOES exist and it is CTC's monthly  (FREE) Parent to Parent Building Connections groups. Today we are speaking with 4 Downingtown parents who are regular participants and they are sharing the impact these group meetings have had on their parenting and overall well being. They share about the magic of Carol (the expert facilitator), that no issue is too big or too small, and the benefits of hearing from other parents who are ahead of you. We also discuss top strategies learned, key phrases to use to problem solve with your kids, red flags to notice, and the community and friendships that have been built through these groups. This conversation is so uplifting and relatable and shows the positive impact of belonging to a community. Join us! Things we mentioned in this episode:   We talked about the parent group facilitator Carol Rothera and our podcast episode with her.    Chrissie mentioned the podcast Kelly Corrigan Wonders and the episode with Jen Hatmaker   Use your BUTT: Breath, Understand, Think, Talk   Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeok9Z1R_xkbYmMFlcXjOZw LinkedIn:  Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

How can “soft skills” result in drug-free kids? Today we are speaking with Shannon DiCandilo from Compass Mark to talk about how social emotional learning skills are key to emotional health, academic success, and delaying and preventing underage drug and alcohol use. Shannon shares how these skills play out in real life for kids, current trends on what substances youth are using–AND how they are getting it. We also discuss the link between mental health challenges and substance use, the vaping prevention program Catch My Breath, and also what is “stealth vaping”?! Join us! Things we mentioned in this episode:   We had two episodes with Selena from Caron about vaping: part one and part two.    Jessica Lahey does instagram reels with information from her books.    Xyalzine and fentanyl leading to increased drug overdoses.    Compass Mark uses a public health approach to prevent substance misuse and problem gambling across Lancaster, Lebanon, and Chester Counties, PA. We are expert guides on any journey to master new social & emotional skills and to lower risk factors for addiction. Shannon shared specifically about their program Catch My Breath for vaping and nicotine use prevention.    Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeok9Z1R_xkbYmMFlcXjOZw LinkedIn:  Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Did you know most parents ALREADY have all the skills to parent their kids and teach them life skills? Dr. Don McCown, PhD, MSS, LSW, sits down with Bethann and Chrissie to share about his new (FREE!) online parenting program, Learning Life Skills Together. Don shares that all parents have four key skills that can support children to learn emotional life skills–paying attention, regulating emotion, tolerating distress, and clearly communicating–we just may need to practice these skills to build them up. They also discuss how a child's resilience is based on the resiliency of their parents and how honing these skills is helpful to move through the world with more ease. Lastly, Don shares how awe and beauty, making things and belonging are invaluable to health and wellness. Also listen to learn Don's 20 minute rule–join us! Things we mentioned in this episode:   Don's Online Program Learning Life Skills Together is FREE and available now to start using!   Chrissie mentioned the book Never Enough by Jennifer Wallace   Bethann mentioned the CDC's report on the loneliness epidemic and the impact on health    Don shares the national mental health crisis resource 988–it is free and 24/7 support–just dial 988 on your phone.    CTC's 3rd Annual Snowball Shuffle 5K Run/1 Mile Walk is Sat. March 2nd at Eagleview Town Center. Join us and bring the whole family!    Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

SHOW NOTES Does your kid say they hate school? This phrase usually appears at some point whether it be an overall dislike or a tough subject or assignment. Today we have Carol Rothera, LPC, with us to discuss what are the underlying causes of your child hating school. Carol shares how we as parents can be curious to figure out what is really going on and how to support kids to problem solve and overcome challenges. We discuss how to deal with avoidance as a coping strategy, setting expectations and family values around school, and managing low frustration tolerance. Carol has a wealth of experience and knowledge to share, join us! Things we mentioned in this episode:   The DASD Pennsylvania Youth Survey Data has info about commitment to school on page 42   Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Happy holidays from Bethann and Chrissie! We wish you a safe and healthy holiday season and happy new year and we will talk with you in 2024! In the meantime we have 40 (!) episodes in our catalog you can go back and listen to while you shop, wrap gifts, cook, clean and do all the holiday things. Thanks for being with us this year!   Register for our January 24th, 2023 webinar with Family Tech–”Digital Parenting”. Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation! You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you! Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.  Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

So what ever happened with Chrissie's tech reckoning following her and Bethann's interview with Family Tech at the end of the summer? You can find out today! Bethann is “interviewing” Chrissie about what has changed in her household with tech usage since doing an end of summer reset. Chrissie shares what devices have changed for her kids, different tools that are now being used (and working pretty well!), how the tech reset went and led to device-free weekdays, and also how it is still a constant push and pull managing tech use–for everyone, parents included. Just like everything else this is a cycle that never really ends. Join us!    Things we mentioned in this episode:   Listen first to the episode with Sarah Kimmel from Family Tech where Chrissie talks about her tech fails.    The audiobook series Chrissie's kids loved and listened to in the car was called The Penderwicks.   Chrissie talked about Discord–here is a video from Family Tech explaining the Discord app.    Chrissie and Bethann took a social media break after Aria did and told us about it on the pod!   Register for our January 24th, 2023 webinar with Family Tech–”Digital Parenting”.   Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Sports are a surefire way to keep kids out of trouble and less likely to use substances, right? Well, we learned the answer is yes… and sometimes also no. What makes students great athletes also places them at greater risk of substance use. We are so happy to welcome Tina George from Caron Treatment Centers to talk with us about student athletes and how participation in sports (and other high achievement focused activities) can be both a protective AND risk factor. Tina shares what substances students are most likely to use, including caffeine and supplements, and the impact it can have on performance. She also gives guidance on how to tackle (pun intended) a “work hard, play hard” and “look the other way” team or coaching culture to keep your kid safe. We also discuss what parents CAN do to support their athlete to be well as they balance not only their sport, but also school and just being a kid growing up. Join us!   Things we mentioned in this episode:   Tina was featured presenting this topic in our Oct. 2023 Parent Speaker Series Webinar–watch here.    Tina advised to look for a seal from NSF Certified for Sports to make sure anything your child is taking is safe.   You can reach Tina at tgeorge@caron.org and learn more about Caron and their education programs and resources. Tina also has a podcast “Conversations that Matter” discussing behavioral health strategies for building resilience.    Parent to Parent: Building Connections Groups are meeting monthly! Join parents with similar-aged students and a trained facilitator to discover techniques, tips, and tricks to tackle common challenges and strengthen connections. Most importantly we'll interact with other parents who are in the same stage or who have been there and can offer advice. Bring a friend and join the conversation!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

As parents we can't help but want better for our kids and wonder, “How can I make this path different for them?” Today we are speaking with Dan Brady, CTC Board President and Downingtown parent of three. Dan shares with us why prevention work is so important and how these are the things we need to do when we feel good and before we feel the need to “panic parent”. Dan and Chrissie discuss their own experience with alcohol use, how there is a lot of gray area in substance use disorder, and how our own use and family history influences how we parent. Lastly we talk about how important positive points of contact with youth and parents are to better our community. Join us! Things we mentioned in this episode:   We mentioned our podcast episode with Cynthia    We reference the PAYS alcohol statistics and norms students reported   Chrissie wrote a blog post about quitting drinking alcohol   We talked about how early kids use alcohol. 1 in 3 kids have tried alcohol by age 8, and 2 in 3 by age 12.    You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Tech management has become a role that all parents have had to take on these days with phones, tablets, ipads, chromebooks and more. It is the number one topic that parents share they want help and support with and we are lucky to speak with expert Sarah Kimmel, founder and owner of Family Tech. Our goal for this conversation was to learn about parental controls and the best way to introduce technology… and unintentionally became a coaching session for Chrissie as the tech use in her family got away from her this past summer. We discuss all of Chrissie's tech fails and how to get back on track–Roblox and PCs and Discord, oh my! Sarah also shares how to set limits around screen time, the magic of turning off the internet (and how to do it so YOU still have internet), and a sensible order to introduce tech devices to your kids leading up to their own phone in the end. Sarah's outlook on how to invite tech into your home and manage it with your kids is balanced and approachable–and Chrissie vows to do everything she says. Join us!   PS–There will be an episode coming up where Chrissie shares what happened when she followed Sarah's advice and reeled in the tech use in her house with her kids. Keep an eye out for this episode coming soon!    Things we mentioned in this episode:   Sarah spoke with author Kristen Jenson about how to talk to your kids about pornography They discussed that most kids will be exposed to porn online and recommends Kristen's book Good Pictures, Bad Pictures to help prepare your kids for images that may come up   Tech contract is available from Sarah if you sign up for her newsletter–it is on the right side of screen   Sarah Kimmel is a family tech expert and digital parenting coach and is the founder of Family Tech, LLC, a company to help families understand and manage the technology and devices in their homes. Family Tech includes a blog, podcast, in-home tech support and live classes or events. Her YouTube videos are super helpful too!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Today we are learning how to find joy in the chaos, including refilling our EXTRA–which our guest Rosey Celommi will explain what this EXTRA is and how we all need to care for it. Rosey is an educator of over 25 years and she previously taught and worked in Chester County. In the past few years Rosey has been on a mission to help educators care for themselves to deal with and prevent burnout. Just about all of these principles apply to parents too! Rosey shares ways to figure out what brings you joy and how to nurture it, how to integrate a mindfulness and gratitude practice into your day, and how to create joy in the chaos of our busy lives. Join us!   Things we mentioned in this episode:   Chrissie mentioned a previous blog post   Rosey mentioned Jon Kabat-Zinn as a leader of mindfulness and the developer of mindfulness based stress reduction   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Learn where to get help this coming school year.   --    "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” (Gotta love Mr. Rogers!) Today we are speaking with two of Downingtown Area School District's (DASD) biggest helpers, Sarah Brooks, Lead Student Assistance Specialist, and Mary Wallin, K-12 Department Leader for School Counselors. Sarah and Mary are sharing with us the roles of Prevention Specialists and School Counselors, as well as other district staff they may work with to support a student and family. We learn the trends they are seeing in school right now, both positives and challenges and how to access local resources. Sarah and Mary also give us the steps on how to handle common struggles including: how to help your child who may be ok in school but is emotionally and behaviorally different at home, what to do if your child doesn't want to attend school, and how to work with the school team if your child will be missing school for a prolonged period of time. This conversation truly shows the team approach taken at DASD and how parents can best communicate with their school-based supports. Join us!   Things we mentioned in this episode:   Counseling Staff at DASD   Prevention Specialist Staff at DASD Behavior Specialists at DASD   Mental Health Services at DASD   Psychology Today has a search tool to find providers near you that do and do not take insurance.    CTC is launching Parent to Parent Peer Support Groups to provide a safe space for parents to get advice and support from other parents. Learn more about these groups and when they meet!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE.   

We are at the point of the summer when we may have hit screen overload. Listen for tips to find balance!   --    How does technology affect kids' behavior and developing brains? Dr. Stephanie Diez-Morel from Reboot and Recover returns to talk about her research on how persuasive technology is impacting kids' language, beliefs, and attitudes. She explains how social media and games are using tactics to tap into kids' innate human hardwiring to make this tech so compelling. She also discusses the impact of artificial intelligence and how it is shaping our kids' beliefs around why we use the internet, including creating a need for external validation and the risk of being exposed to online toxicity. Dr. Diez-Morel shares strategies parents can use to support their kids to consume more nourishing content online and explains using the 4 C's when choosing content and games. This conversation also includes some venting from Chrissie on the stress and exhaustion of managing all the tech! Lots of great tips shared, join us!   Things we mentioned in this episode:   Our first Episode with Dr. Diez-Morel about tech and screens   Create a Family Media Plan for your family's tech use.    Dr. Diez-Morel talked about the passage of the CAMRA Act to fund research of tech's impact on children's health and development.   Dr. Diez-Morel's 4 C's: Connection, Critical Thinking, Creativity, Context   Check out other resources listed on Reboot and Recover's Resource Page.   Reboot and Recover's mission is to provide solutions for balanced living in a technology driven world. We offer therapy for individuals, couples, and families struggling with any issues related to technology overuse and addiction. The treatment is provided by licensed and practicing professionals in a confidential and caring capacity. Follow Reboot and Recover on:  Facebook @rebootandrecover  Instagram @rebootandrecover  Twitter @RebootRecover    CTC has Parent to Parent Peer Support Groups to provide a safe space for parents to get advice and support from other parents. Learn more about these groups and when they meet!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

This relatable conversation is one for parents with kids of all ages.   --    Do all kids drink alcohol before they graduate high school? Is this a thing? Today we are breaking down the youth and parent perceptions and norms around underage drinking with Beth Bruton from Holcomb Behavioral Health Systems. We discuss all the surrounding variables that influence youth's perception of alcohol including social media, peer influence, and family modeling. We also talk about how although some parents may serve alcohol to their kids with best intentions of teaching them to be responsible, studies show that kids that are given alcohol at home underage are more likely to drink more often and larger amounts–but most parents don't know this–we don't know what we don't know. Beth gave great tips on ways to talk to your kids about underage drinking and how to set up strategies to give your kids an out if they are in a risky situation. She also provided ways to talk to other parents that may or may not know the risks of underage drinking and how to share this information. We loved this conversation with Beth and hope you will join us!   Things we mentioned in this episode:   We referenced data from the PAYS 2021 Report   CTC PAYS Data on Alcohol Infographic    We mentioned a previous episode with Carl Gregory explaining the importance of unconditional love   We mentioned a previous episode with Corporal Gathercole from Upper Uwchlan Police Dept.   Chrissie mentioned Jessica Lahey and her Instagram Reels series with main points from her book The Addiction Inoculation    Holcomb has implemented MADD's Power of Parents initiative which has many great resources for parents to talk to their kids about underage drinking   Holcomb Behavioral Health Systems is a leader in providing services and supports for people with mental health, substance abuse, and developmental disabilities. The Chester County Holcomb Prevention department is located at the Holcomb corporate office in Exton, PA. Beth Bruton is the Prevention Manager and you can email her with any questions or comments at elizabeth.bruton@chimes.org  CTC is launching Parent to Parent Peer Support Groups to provide a safe space for parents to get advice and support from other parents. Learn more about these groups and when they meet!   Join us at our Second Annual Snowball Shuffle 5k Run/1 Mile Walk on March 4th at Eagleview Town Center at 9am.   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

This powerful, personal story is a must-listen!   --    We are starting off the new year with a personal parent story and this one really moved Chrissie and Bethann–the first to bring tears into the conversation. Our friend and CTC Board President. Carl Gregory, joined us to share about his family's journey with substance use disorder and the loss of his daughter. Carl talks about how he was once a person who felt “these things don't happen to us” to someone who now speaks openly about his experience to support other parents and families. We discuss how a child's peers and friend groups can make an impact, how substance use disorder is a disease and not a moral issue, and the importance of connection. Carl's sense of equanimity during this conversation impacted Chrissie and Bethann in an unexpected way and we have a feeling you will feel the same. We are so grateful to Carl for sharing. Join us!   Things we mentioned in this episode:   Carl mentioned the 3 C's from Alanon Find an Alanon meeting   We talked about the benefits of hearing other parents stories and how important peer parent support is. CTC is launching Parent to Parent Peer Support Groups. Learn more about these groups and when they meet!   Another resource is Parent Partnership group meetings coordinated by CTC partner Be A Part of the Conversation. Learn more about the Parent Partnership groups!  You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook @Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Monday.  Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE.

June is Pride month so we are sharing our episode with Aubrey and Bethann on how to support transgender youth. Happy Pride! -- There is all the love for this special episode today! Chrissie is interviewing Bethann and her daughter Aubrey, who is transgender, about their journey to becoming their truest selves. In our conversation, we discussed: advice for parents who may have kids who are wanting to change their pronouns and/or questioning their identity, how to have grace and compassion with each other, and the value of letting go of control and expectations. Look to the show notes below for best practice resources for parents and to learn more about supporting LGBTQIA+ youth. We know that LGBTQIA+ youth and adults are at a greater risk of substance use and misuse, mental health challenges, and suicide risk, all the more reason for education and support for this community. This honest and loving conversation provides support, encouragement and awareness for both parents and youth. Join us!   *Please note we are not medical professionals though we do discuss medical interventions in this episode. Please seek out medical guidance from your pediatrician and/or healthcare providers.   Things we mentioned during our conversation:   Chrissie gave statistics from NAMI at the beginning of the episode about mental health and substance use rates among LGBTQIA+ youth and adults.    Resources: PFLAG provides confidential peer support, education, and advocacy to LGBTQ+ people, their parents and families, and allies. AMAZE.org creates free educational videos + resources to help families talk openly, honestly, and less awkwardly about sex, health, relationships + growing up. They have great resources on gender identity and sexual orientation. CHOP Gender and Sexuality Development Program The Gender and Sexuality Development Program offers psychosocial and medical support for gender nonconforming, gender expansive and transgender children and youth up to age 21 and their families. GLSEN works to ensure that LGBTQ students are able to learn and grow in a school environment free from bullying and harassment. Together we can transform our nation's schools into the safe and affirming environment all youth deserve.    Sign up for CTC's First Annual Snowball Shuffle Family 5k Run & 1 Mile Walk  Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources and webinars. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn   Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Monday. We would love to hear from you! Please email Chrissie with any questions, comments or other feedback at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

We did it! Chrissie and Bethann gave up social media for 3 days–and we are talking about how it went! We share our reflections on this experience and how we chose to return to socials…if at all. Spoiler alert: 10/10 recommend taking a break! We also share our plan for the pod for over the summer. Join us!   Things we mentioned in this episode:   Listen to our Episode 34 with Aria that inspired us to take a break!   Chrissie mentioned the book How to Break Up with Your Phone by Catherine Price   Chrissie mentioned an episode from the What Fresh Hell Podcast about technology dependency   Chrissie mentioned persuasive technology from Episode 33: Tech and Gaming Effects on Kids Behavior   Our first Episode with Dr. Diez-Morel about tech and screens You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Ever feel like giving up social media altogether? (Spoiler: We definitely do! And then just… do not.) Our Communications Director, Aria Walerski, did just that when she recently gave up her personal socials for lent and in today's episode she shares what she learned over those 40 days! Aria explained how she never realized how much she picked up her phone during the day and how this was more challenging than she expected in the beginning of her break. She also tells us how no socials made her feel physically and emotionally and how freeing it was to use her phone less. We also discuss how social media apps aren't all bad and Aria shared ways she put guardrails around her use when she returned to the apps. Chrissie and Bethann also agree to take a break from their personal socials–Instagram–for Memorial Day Weekend. Join us for a 3-day break and we will talk about what we learned in an upcoming episode!    Things we mentioned in this episode:   Chrissie mentioned persuasive technology from Episode 33: Tech and Gaming Effects on Kids Behavior   Our first Episode with Dr. Diez-Morel about tech and screens CTC has Parent to Parent Peer Support Groups to provide a safe space for parents to get advice and support from other parents. Learn more about these groups and when they meet!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

How does technology affect kids' behavior and developing brains? Dr. Stephanie Diez-Morel from Reboot and Recover returns to talk about her research on how persuasive technology is impacting kids' language, beliefs, and attitudes. She explains how social media and games are using tactics to tap into kids' innate human hardwiring to make this tech so compelling. She also discusses the impact of artificial intelligence and how it is shaping our kids' beliefs around why we use the internet, including creating a need for external validation and the risk of being exposed to online toxicity. Dr. Diez-Morel shares strategies parents can use to support their kids to consume more nourishing content online and explains using the 4 C's when choosing content and games. This conversation also includes some venting from Chrissie on the stress and exhaustion of managing all the tech! Lots of great tips shared, join us!   Things we mentioned in this episode:   Our first Episode with Dr. Diez-Morel about tech and screens   Create a Family Media Plan for your family's tech use.    Dr. Diez-Morel talked about the passage of the CAMRA Act to fund research of tech's impact on children's health and development.   Dr. Diez-Morel's 4 C's: Connection, Critical Thinking, Creativity, Context   Check out other resources listed on Reboot and Recover's Resource Page.   Reboot and Recover's mission is to provide solutions for balanced living in a technology driven world. We offer therapy for individuals, couples, and families struggling with any issues related to technology overuse and addiction. The treatment is provided by licensed and practicing professionals in a confidential and caring capacity. Follow Reboot and Recover on:  Facebook @rebootandrecover  Instagram @rebootandrecover  Twitter @RebootRecover    CTC has Parent to Parent Peer Support Groups to provide a safe space for parents to get advice and support from other parents. Learn more about these groups and when they meet!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.  Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE.

We are back for Part 2 with Selena Morresi from Caron Treatment Centers to talk about vaping! In this episode we are exploring the link between vaping and using other substances (including cocaine…what?!), the clever marketing of vape products, and the risks with vaping THC and marijuana. Selena also shares how cessation programs are a great support to youth that want to quit vaping, which led us to discuss the need for empathy and compassion for kids that find themselves newly dependent on nicotine and having a hard time not using. This conversation is packed with new information and tips parents, and anyone working with youth, can use right away. Join us! Things we mentioned in this episode:   Go back and listen to Part 1!   Selena talked about how nicotine use is linked with using other substances including alcohol, marijuana, and cocaine   Selena's first episode with us Episode 2: All Things Vaping: Essentials Parents Need to Know CTC has Parent to Parent Peer Support Groups to provide a safe space for parents to get advice and support from other parents. Learn more about these groups and when they meet!   You can email Selena at: smorresi@caron.org  Learn more about Caron here: www.caron.org Selena mentioned Caron's free digital education and prevention classes on their website Caron also has an online self-paced cessation program for teens that is FREE called Connect 5 Follow Caron on: Facebook and Twitter You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Are some vape products just flavors and water vapor and may not contain nicotine? Does it take a long time to get addicted to nicotine products? Vaping (or should we say “aerosoling”) is still very much a thing among youth and we are delighted to welcome back Selena Morresi from Caron Treatment Centers to share with us common myths and facts surrounding vaping. We discuss nicotine and how it impacts the developing adolescent brain including the ability to learn and pay attention. We also talk about the similarities between vaping and traditional cigarettes, including how much nicotine is in these disposable products in comparison to traditional cigarettes–spoiler alert–IT IS A LOT. Selena explains the nicotine-stress cycle and how this can impact users even when they are not actively vaping–for example when they are at school or home. This conversation is Part 1 of a two part series, both containing lots of information to help us understand why vaping continues to be so alluring. Join us! Things we mentioned in this episode:   Selena's first episode with us Episode 2: All Things Vaping: Essentials Parents Need to Know   Chrissie shared stats on current vaping use among middle and high school students: 2022 National Youth Tobacco survey found that more than 1 in 4 kids in middle and high school have vaped in the last month, the most common device is a disposable, and 85% are using flavored vapes. Locally in DASD the most recent PAYS data from 2021 showed:11% of 10th graders and 23% of 12th graders have vaped in the last 30 days. Among students that reported vaping in the last year, 37% of 10th graders and 50% of 12th graders vaped THC and even more reported vaping nicotine including 50% of 8th graders, 77% of 10th graders and 70% of seniors.   FDA regulation of Juul   Chrissie mentioned smoking is not permitted indoors due to the Clean Indoor Air Act    CTC has Parent to Parent Peer Support Groups to provide a safe space for parents to get advice and support from other parents. Learn more about these groups and when they meet!   You can email Selena at: smorresi@caron.org  Learn more about Caron here: www.caron.org Selena mentioned Caron's free digital education and prevention classes on their website Caron also has an online self-paced cessation program for teens that is FREE called Connect 5 Follow Caron on: Facebook and Twitter You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Feeling anxious? It seems most parents we know have dealt with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges at some point in their life. Does a parent's mental health affect their kids? If we are anxious or depressed do we “make” our kids anxious or depressed? In today's episode we are answering these questions and much more with guest Mike Smolenski, M.A., L.P.C., a therapist and Clinical Director at our partner Sanare Today. We discussed how an anxious or depressed parent may interact with their kids (often unintentionally) and how our children may internalize these interactions and interpret your behaviors. We also talked about  the importance of sharing your stuff appropriately and creating an environment to talk about feelings. Mike highlighted how we as parents often have super high (read: unrealistic) expectations of ourselves and that we are not superheroes, but are actually human too. He also shared how parents can better care for themselves and how to find ways to realistically do this and use strategies that work for YOU. Chrissie and Bethann also brought up how parenting in the U.S. is different from other cultures and how it is understandable that parents may feel overwhelmed being the primary person for all their kids' needs. This conversation included so many thoughts and hands-on tips you can do right away, we hope you will join us! Things we mentioned in this episode:   CDC's Children's Mental Health page with stats about caregivers mental health   Pew study that found parents are worried about their kids mental health   “Healthy Boundaries, Healthy Family” Parent Speaker Series recording   We mentioned a book called Hunt, Gather, Parent about parenting in different cultures   CTC has Parent to Parent Peer Support Groups to provide a safe space for parents to get advice and support from other parents. Learn more about these groups and when they meet!   Sanare Today's mission is to build a world in which the vast majority of people wake up everyday feeling and thinking that they are okay and can thrive. Sanare Today provides help and support for those hurting from depression, anxiety or addictions through our Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), outpatient services, and coaching services (Thrive University). You can call Sanare at 610-344-9600. You can follow Sanare Today on Facebook and Instagram.   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.  Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE.

"Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” (Gotta love Mr. Rogers!) Today we are speaking with two of Downingtown Area School District's (DASD) biggest helpers, Sarah Brooks, Lead Student Assistance Specialist, and Mary Wallin, K-12 Department Leader for School Counselors. Sarah and Mary are sharing with us the roles of Prevention Specialists and School Counselors, as well as other district staff they may work with to support a student and family. We learn the trends they are seeing in school right now, both positives and challenges, and how to access local resources. Sarah and Mary also give us the steps on how handle common struggles including: how to help your child who may be ok in school, but is emotionally and behaviorally different at home, what to do if your child doesn't want to attend school, and how to work with the school team if your child will be missing school for a prolonged period of time. This conversation truly shows the team approach taken at DASD and how parents can best communicate with their school based supports. Join us! Things we mentioned in this episode:   Counseling Staff at DASD   Prevention Specialist Staff at DASD Behavior Specialists at DASD   Mental Health Services at DASD   Psychology Today has a search tool to find providers near you that do and do not take insurance.    CTC is launching Parent to Parent Peer Support Groups to provide a safe space for parents to get advice and support from other parents. Learn more about these groups and when they meet!   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Do all kids drink alcohol before they graduate high school? Is this a thing? Today we are breaking down the youth and parent perceptions and norms around underage drinking with Beth Bruton from Holcomb Behavioral Health Systems. We discuss all the surrounding variables that influence youth's perception of alcohol including social media, peer influence, and family modeling. We also talk about how although some parents may serve alcohol to their kids with best intentions of teaching them to be responsible, studies show that kids that are given alcohol at home underage are more likely to drink more often and larger amounts–but most parents don't know this–we don't know what we don't know. Beth gave great tips on ways to talk to your kids about underage drinking and how to set up strategies to give your kids an out if they are in a risky situation. She also provided ways to talk to other parents that may or may not know the risks of underage drinking and how to share this information. We loved this conversation with Beth and hope you will join us!   Things we mentioned in this episode:   We referenced data from the PAYS 2021 Report   CTC PAYS Data on Alcohol Infographic    We mentioned a previous episode with Carl Gregory explaining the importance of unconditional love   We mentioned a previous episode with Corporal Gathercole from Upper Uwchlan Police Dept.   Chrissie mentioned Jessica Lahey and her Instagram Reels series with main points from her book The Addiction Inoculation    Holcomb has implemented MADD's Power of Parents initiative which has many great resources for parents to talk to their kids about underage drinking   Holcomb Behavioral Health Systems is a leader in providing services and supports for people with mental health, substance abuse, and developmental disabilities. The Chester County Holcomb Prevention department is located at the Holcomb corporate office in Exton, PA. Beth Bruton is the Prevention Manager and you can email her with any questions or comments at elizabeth.bruton@chimes.org  CTC is launching Parent to Parent Peer Support Groups to provide a safe space for parents to get advice and support from other parents. Learn more about these groups and when they meet!   Join us at our Second Annual Snowball Shuffle 5k Run/1 Mile Walk on March 4th at Eagleview Town Center at 9am.   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

When your family loses a loved one it impacts everyone, but how grief looks and sounds in kids can be very different from adults. Today Bethann and Chrissie are speaking with Kate Lannan, MSW, LSW, Community Services Director at A Haven, a nonprofit organization supporting grieving families and children. We discuss how grief presents differently in kids at various ages and how “play is processing and behavior is communication”. Kate explains ways to support kids while also taking care of ourselves during this time, and how to have conversations about death that are honest, factual, and brief. We also discussed how grief can come and go, that it is normal to feel distressed, and we can't fix our feelings…but we can try to process them with support. Join us! Things we mentioned in this episode:   A Haven has great online resources to support talking about grief and loss   Bethann mentioned using books to support conversations–here is a list from A Haven   A Haven is a nonprofit organization located in Exton, PA, focused on supporting grieving children with a family-centered approach. A Haven acknowledges that empowering families to walk through grief together is an important piece in supporting a grieving child. Research now reveals that the number one determining factor on how a child grieves is how the parent/guardians grieve. A Haven provides grief support through groups, community outreach, and educational resources. Follow A Haven on Facebook and Instagram.    A Haven is also having an Open House on March 8th from 8-10am if you wanted to stop in to see their space!   CTC is launching Parent to Parent Peer Support Groups to provide a safe space for parents to get advice and support from other parents. Learn more about these groups and when they meet!   Join us at our Second Annual Snowball Shuffle 5k Run/1 Mile Walk on March 4th at Eagleview Town Center at 9am.   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Today is our first pod swap episode! Bethann and Chrissie are speaking with Tori from Meraki Run Club who has her own podcast Raising Runners. In this episode we each get a chance to be the guest and the interviewer. We discuss how anyone can be a runner and the link to mental health, what makes Meraki's youth running programs special, and Chrissie and Bethann's running routine and mini running community (party of 2 plus airpods). We also discussed finding balance in self care, work and family time, and how to build resilience in our kids AND ourselves as adults. This was a fun conversation and perfect for our first pod swap! Join us!   Things we mentioned in this episode:   Tori's podcast is Raising Runners and is all about fitness, running, sports, and the role it plays for families and individuals, mental health, and coaching.   Chrissie talked about eye movement therapy and bilateral movement as it relates to running and mindfulness.    Chrissie talked about the Parent to Parent Blog and Welcome to the Water Bar.   CTC is launching Parent to Parent Peer Support Groups to provide a safe space for parents to get advice and support from other parents. Learn more about these groups and when they meet!   Meraki is hosting two fundraising events for the Youth Mental Health Project: 3/11/23 from 12-2pm Rockclimbing at the Philadelphia Rock Gym in Malvern 5/20/23 Run Fest 5K/1 Hour Challenge at Great Valley High School    Meraki Run Club is an enrichment program for all fitness levels. Traditional running games and drills are transformed into powerful life lessons. When you are with Run Club, you are getting a great workout AND building strength of character. You can follow Tori and Meraki on Facebook @merakirunclub and Instagram @meraki_run_club_coach for updates on future programs and camps. Tori also has her own podcast Raising Runners.     Join us at our Second Annual Snowball Shuffle 5k Run/1 Mile Walk on March 4th at Eagleview Town Center at 9am.   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook /@Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Tuesday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

We are starting off the new year with a personal parent story and this one really moved Chrissie and Bethann–the first to bring tears into the conversation. Our friend and CTC Board President. Carl Gregory, joined us to share about his family's journey with substance use disorder and the loss of his daughter. Carl talks about how he was once a person who felt “these things don't happen to us” to someone who now speaks openly about his experience to support other parents and families. We discuss how a child's peers and friend groups can make an impact, how substance use disorder is a disease and not a moral issue, and the importance of connection. Carl's sense of equanimity during this conversation impacted Chrissie and Bethann in an unexpected way and we have a feeling you will feel the same. We are so grateful to Carl for sharing. Join us!   Things we mentioned in this episode:   Carl mentioned the 3 C's from Alanon Find an Alanon meeting   We talked about the benefits of hearing other parents stories and how important peer parent support is. CTC is launching Parent to Parent Peer Support Groups. Learn more about these groups and when they meet!   Another resource is Parent Partnership group meetings coordinated by CTC partner Be A Part of the Conversation. Learn more about the Parent Partnership groups!  You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook @Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Monday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Today's episode started out as a conversation about “gray area drinking” and ended up covering all things alcohol related (and we will likely need to record a part 2!). Dr. Jennifer Benjamin and Jerome Williams from the Philadelphia Child and Family Therapy Training Center joined us to discuss how and why alcohol use increased among adults especially parents, during the pandemic (alcohol consumption rose among adults over age 30 by 14% during the pandemic, with a 41% increase in women heavily drinking), and the impact it can have on parents themselves, and their kids. Chrissie also shares how her own alcohol use changed during the pandemic and how she assessed her relationship with alcohol in early 2021. We also discuss the social and cultural influences that act as “pennies in a jar”, slowly making an impact without us necessarily noticing, and that one does not need to be dependent on a substance to question their relationship with that substance. Dr. Benjamin and Jerome share many resources to access support and ways to consider the environment surrounding alcohol use, in your home and community, and the societal attitude of “it's ok for me because it's ok for you”. This conversation brought up so many great points that truly tap into our favorite saying of “you don't know what you don't know” and touched on many ways that alcohol can creep into our lives without us even realizing it. Join us!   Things we mentioned during our conversation:   Chrissie mentioned research showing an increase in alcohol use among adults during the pandemic, especially among women and parents.    Chrissie talked about an article that talks about “mommy wine culture” and when did it start.    Dr. Benjamin was our featured speaker in the fall for the Parent Speaker Series event “Being Comfortable in the Uncomfortable: How to Have Tough Conversations with Your Kids”. You can watch the recording HERE.   Bethann shared data from our DASD PAYS data showing most students by 12th grade have observed one or more adults drunk or high. Click here for the full data and these stats are on pg. 81.    Dr. Benjamin shared the risk of introducing alcohol to an adolescent brain since it is not yet fully developed. To learn more click here and here.    Chrissie talked about doing a “dry January” reset with her alcohol use in Jan. of 2021. She read “quit lit'' books including (parts of) This Naked Mind and We Are the Luckiest and also listened to some podcasts by Ruby Warrington about being sober curious. Chrissie also followed a few sober curious/dry challenge accounts on instagram: @1000hoursdryparents and @thesobermomlife.    Jerome and Dr. Benjamin shared tools to use for self assessment and to find support for yourself and/or a loved one: SMART Recovery has a cost benefit analysis tool to help make patterns observable. PA Get Help Now has a hotline to call for help and links to local providers.  SAMHSA has a national helpline available 24/7, 365 days per year to find support. Alanon and AA are free supports with meetings for specific groups (women only, students, parents, etc.)    The Philadelphia Child and Family Therapy Training Center's mission is to promote the delivery of strength-based, context-sensitive, developmentally-informed mental health training which builds on and supports the emotionally-sustaining relationships of children, adolescents, adults, and their families. PCFTTC provides training, consulting, and education for mental health and other human service professionals. Follow them on Facebook @pcfttc and on Instagram @philafamily.    You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook @CTCChrissie for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources.    Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources and webinars. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn   Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Monday. We would love to hear from you! Please email Chrissie with any questions, comments or other feedback at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Today we are speaking with Josh Ercole, Executive Director at the Council on Compulsive Gambling of PA, to talk about videogames and youth gambling, and how these two activities overlap and intersect. Do you know what loot boxes and microtransactions are? Or that the rating “E for Everyone” doesn't necessarily mean a game is automatically “safe”? Chrissie learned the answers to these questions and more as we discussed how video games (and learning games) contain many elements of gambling, how gambling activities are really all around us, how to keep an eye out for signs of problem gambling and video game use, and resources for help. Join us!.   Things we mentioned during our conversation:   DASD PAYS Data for Gambling (pgs 36-38)   Josh mentioned that problem gambling is now reclassified in the DSM-5. Here is the definition of gambling disorder from the American Psychiatric Assoc. Here are the criteria from the DSM-5 to diagnose gambling disorder.    March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month    Resources to find support: The Council on Compulsive Gambling of PA (CCGP) has many resources on their site. The Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania, Inc., maintains a 24-hour helpline, aimed at assisting people whose lives are impacted by gambling related problems. Whether it be the individual themselves, or friends and family members, they strive to connect callers with additional resources located near them. The helpline offers 24/7/365, live assistance to callers. Calls are free and entirely confidential. For callers with primary languages other than English, a language line translation service is available, offering assistance in over 200 languages. Chat and text options are also available. You can also call 1-800-GAMBLER. You can also find Resources for Providing Help. Follow the CCGP on Facebook @ccgofpa    Reboot and Recover provides treatment for technology dependency.     Game Quitters is a resource to learn more about video game use and dependency.    The National Council on Problem Gambling has resources and screening tools.   Gamblers Anonymous (GA) groups meet regularly to provide free, anonymous support. Find a meeting here.   Sign up for CTC's First Annual Snowball Shuffle Family 5k Run & 1 Mile Walk    Sign up your 6-12 grader for CTC's FREE  Healthy Youth Summit!   CTC's Parent Resource Page with Marijuana Resources   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources and webinars. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn   Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Monday. We would love to hear from you! Please email Chrissie with any questions, comments or other feedback at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Partner Playback - Episode 10: All Things Screens: How to find balance for your child (& yourself) in a tech-filled world   Smartphones, ipads, tablets, videogames…our screens and tech are everywhere! How do we manage our kids (and our own) relationships with screens and technology? Today we are getting help from Dr. Stephanie Diez-Morel, the founder and Director of Reboot & Recover, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing education, prevention, treatment, and research on technology-based addictions. Dr. Diez-Morel explains why we are so tied to our devices, red flags for tech dependency, how to role model our own healthy screen and phone usage, social media and mental health, and the importance of intention when using our devices. Dr. Diez-Morel also shares feedback from students on how they feel about their parents phone use–it is really powerful! We also discuss an alternative “first phone” and resources to set boundaries around tech use in your family. Join us!   Reboot and Recover's mission is to provide solutions for balanced living in a technology driven world. We offer therapy for individuals, couples, and families struggling with any issues related to technology overuse and addiction. The treatment is provided by licensed and practicing professionals in a confidential and caring capacity. Follow Reboot and Recover on:  Facebook @rebootandrecover  Instagram @rebootandrecover  Twitter @RebootRecover    Things we mentioned during our conversation: Take a free assessment for tech use on Reboot and Recover site to help assess your child/your own use.    Check out other resources listed on Reboot and Recover's Resource Page.   Dr. Diez-Morel mentioned GABB phones can be a good choice for a first phone.    Create a Family Media Plan for your family's tech use.    Common Sense Media has reviews for movies, games, tv shows and other media to see what content is included and provides age guidelines.    The Center for Humane Technology has tips and toolkits for parents, kids, and educators.     Sign up your 6-12 grader for CTC's FREE  Healthy Youth Summit!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources and webinars. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn   Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Monday. We would love to hear from you! Please email Chrissie with any questions, comments or other feedback at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

How do students really feel about their mental health day to day? What is the link between mental health and substance use? How great is the impact of bullying on kids? What can parents do to build resilience and monitor mental health at home? We are discussing all these topics today in our Part 2 of breaking down the PAYS data. Chrissie and Bethann are joined again by Sarah Brooks, DASD Student Assistance Specialist, and another guest, Brian McGinley, Licensed Social Worker and School Counselor at the Chester County Immediate Unit. In this episode we explore what factors may be contributing to students reporting feeling low self worth and sadness and/or depression, how students may use substances to cope with mental health challenges, and trends for bullying behaviors and the link to tech. Brian also shares simple, easy tips parents can use at home with their kids including the “7 C's” and 6 items to watch to monitor your child's mental health. A phrase Brian shares during this episode is “dealing with life on life's terms,” which applies to this entire conversation (and is a helpful motto to keep in mind in general).  Join us! Things we mentioned in this episode:   Listen to the PAYS Part 1 Episode explaining PAYS and discussing substance use among our youth   Read the full PAYS Report for 2021   Brian shared the 7 C's to help build resilience in kids from Dr. Ken Ginsburg   DASD's Student Assistance Program (SAP) provides support for students and families with any concern about mental health and substance use   DASD has Counselors and Prevention Specialists that can help! You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook @Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Monday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

What if we knew what our kids really thought about drugs and alcohol? What if we knew how much youth in our community are using substances AND how they felt about peer and parent substance use? Lucky for us we do have this insight thanks to the Pennsylvania Youth Survey or PAYS. Today Chrissie, Bethann and Sarah Brooks, Student Assistance Specialist at Downingtown Area School District (DASD), are talking all things PAYS. They explain what this survey asks and how the data is used, and highlight what DASD is doing really well and also stats that stood out as things to address. Bethann also explains the power of perception and how this impacts behavior, and the role of social norms, i.e. “everyone is doing it”--when we know NOT everyone actually is. This is Part 1 focusing on risk and protective factors and substance use and perceptions. There will be a Part 2 focusing on mental health coming soon. Join us!    Things we mentioned in this episode:   Read the full PAYS Report for 2021   Parents are the #1 influence in a child's decision making   DASD's Student Assistance Program (SAP) provides support for students and families with any concern about mental health and substance use   DASD has Counselors and Prevention Specialists that can help!   Check out our podcast episode with Gretchen Hagenbuch all about marijuana.    You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook @Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Monday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

What does it mean to “set a boundary”? How are boundaries different from rules? The word “boundary” has been thrown around a good bit lately and today we are doing a deep dive into this word and how to apply it to our lives with Priscilla Singleton, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from the Council for Relationships. Priscilla explains what it means to set and respect boundaries both for yourself and others, and she shares how boundaries look different at different ages. We also discuss the benefits of strong boundary setting skills and how this, along with identifying one's values, are foundational to equipping kids to make positive choices later in life. Lastly, Priscilla shares her observations on how technology and the increasing pace of life have led to a societal pressure to “say the right thing right away”, and the impact of being in a constant state of reactivity–and that it is ok to slow down. We felt this A LOT! Join us! Things we mentioned in this episode:   Priscilla works at the Council for Relationships, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to help people from all walks of life improve their important relationships by providing exemplary therapy, educating and training clinicians in the family systems approach, and advancing the mental health field through research. You can follow the Council for Relationships on Instagram and Facebook.    You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook @Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Monday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

What is emotional regulation? This term has gained popularity recently and to be emotionally regulated sounds great in theory–but how do you actually do it? Chrissie and Bethann spoke with Dr. Lou Bevilacqua, CEO and owner of Sanare Today. Dr. Lou explained what emotional regulation is and why certain kids (and adults) may be wired to be more up and down than others. Dr. Lou also shares his observations on how the pandemic and technology have impacted kid's regulation skills, how children (and parents) learn regulation skills from their experience and what is role modeled to them, and he tells a story to explain “why do we do what we do”. Plus, Chrissie (“asking for a friend”) gets some advice on how her own anxiety is causing her to put off setting up a boundary with her kid and tech habits. This was a great conversation packed with real life scenarios and to dos. Join us! Things we mentioned in this episode:   Sanare Today's mission is to build a world in which the vast majority of people wake up everyday feeling and thinking that they are okay and can thrive. Sanare Today provides help and support for those hurting from depression, anxiety or addictions through our Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), outpatient services, and coaching services (Thrive University). You can call Sanare at 610-344-9600. You can follow Sanare Today on Facebook and Instagram.   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook @Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Monday.    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

We are back! Our first episode this fall is all about mindfulness, a buzzword we are seeing everywhere these days. Bethann and Chrissie are speaking with Jan Michener, Executive Director of Arts Holding Hands and Hearts (AHHAH), a nonprofit in Chester County that provides programs and trainings to increase resiliency and create positive pathways towards productive and fulfilling futures for youth through mindfulness tools, artistic initiatives, and professional development training for staff.   Jan shares with us what “mindfulness” really is and what it means to be mindful in your daily life. We also discuss how a mindfulness practice looks different for everyone, ways to take purposeful pauses and how to practice this with your kids, and the importance of focusing not on how to do but how to be. This conversation was powerful and calming in itself. Join us!   Things we mentioned during our conversation:   STOP (Stop, Take 3 slow breaths, Observe inside and outside, Proceed with presence and purpose)   PPP – Practice purposeful pauses   AHHAH offers Good Morning Yoga on Mondays, Wednesdays and Friday at 9am on Zoom for a small donation. You can also email Jan with questions or for more information on their staff mindfulness trainings and other programs at jan@artsholdinghandsandhearts.com. Follow AHHAH for updates at the links below: AHHAH on Facebook AHHAH on Instagram AHHAH on Twitter     You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook @Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Monday. We would love to hear from you! Please email Chrissie with any questions, comments or other feedback at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

Today we have our last audioblog episode for the summer! Chrissie is reading our post from July about an update on how Camp Big Brother is going. Spoiler alert–not totally how she anticipated. You can find the written blog post “Update: Camp Big Brother'' with links HERE.   You can find the audioblog episode on Camp Big Brother HERE.   You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook @Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you!   Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Monday. We would love to hear from you! Please email Chrissie with any questions, comments or other feedback at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org    Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE. 

We are in the last weeks of summer and wanted to again share our episode with Holly O'Connell from A Path to Hope about accessing mental health support for your child. This is a great listen if you have noticed changes in your child this summer, and/or to be prepared going into a new school year. Holly gives real, hands on tips for parents and shares her experience and lessons learned. Join us!   How do you know if your child's new moods and extra time alone in their room is normal or concerning? How seriously should a parent take a change in friends, behaviors, and academic performance? If you do want to find professional help, where do you even begin? Today we are speaking with Holly O'Connell, a parent whose journey of navigating the mental health care system for her child led to her founding the nonprofit organization A Path to Hope. A Path to Hope's mission is to empower individuals to seek treatment by offering guidance in navigating mental health systems and support locating resources in and around Chester County. Holly shares her story and experience in finding the right support for her child, and provides guidance on when to act, how to find support that would fit well with your child, and when to make a plan, even if you may never need it. We also discuss how the conversations around mental health are changing (for the better), and how the landscape has changed even in the short 3 years since Holly founded A Path to Hope. Join us! Things we mentioned during our conversation: Holly mentions NAMI and Psychology Today to find therapists, mental health professionals, and other resources and information (in addition to her site) A Path to Hope empowers individuals to seek treatment by offering guidance in navigating mental health systems and support locating resources in and around Chester County. You can find A Path to Hope on:  Facebook @apathtohope Instagram @apathtohope CTC's Parent Resource Page-Mental Health     You can now follow Chrissie on Instagram @ctc_chrissie or on Facebook @Chrissie.CTC for info from each episode, Parent to Parent blog updates, and other parent resources. You can also email Chrissie at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org We would love to hear from you! Communities that Care has a Parent to Parent Blog and many online resources. Please follow us on socials for more tips, resources and support!: Instagram @downingtownctc  Facebook @DowningtownAreaCTC  Twitter @DowningtownCTC  YouTube LinkedIn Be sure to Subscribe/Follow us to get new episodes every other Monday. We would love to hear from you! Please email Chrissie with any questions, comments or other feedback at cdziembowski@dtownctc.org  Find the episode webpage and previous episodes HERE.