From Risk To Resiliency

1. From Risk To Resiliency How to Minimize Risk Factors and Raise Resilient Children Karen J. Wagner, M.Ed. Risk Prevention Specialist Child Advocate & Expert Witness

2. From Risk to ResiliencyOverview • What factors put your child(ren) at risk? • What does “resiliency” mean? • Is my child “at-risk”? • How has my divorce affected my child(ren)? • How you can minimize risk factors in your child(ren). • The important role of fathers in child development.

3. What factors put your child(ren) “at-risk”? • In-vitro factors • Birth order • Family history • Parent relationship • Socio-economic factors • Education • Friends • Court • Other

4. What does “resiliency” mean? • With regards to children of divorce, resiliency • means the ability to: • Make healthy decisions. • Resist unhealthy activities. • Feel safe and secure no matter what situation he or she is in. • Achieve “success” socially, economically, physically, • emotionally, and spiritually • Cope with life’s challenges & choices. • Protect oneself at all times in all ways. • Enjoy life!

5. Is my child “at-risk”? YES Children of divorce, children involved in custody, support and/or visitation disputes, are considered “at-risk”.

6. How can I minimize risk factors? • Keep your children insulated from you and your former spouse’s disagreements! • NEVER, NEVER, NEVER speak negatively about your spouse • in front of your child! • Stay actively involved in your child’s life. • Involve at least one other interested adult. • Increase your parenting knowledge. • BE POSITIVE!

7. The Important Role of Fathers • Developmentally • Psychologically • Physically • Environmentally • Spiritually • Regarding Boys • Regarding Girls

8. The Success FormulaP+R=D • Know What You Want • Know What you Are Getting • Have the Flexibility to Change • Action

9. Wagner Consulting Services, LLC Karen J. Wagner, M.Ed. 3225 Cedar Bluff Drive Marietta, GA 30062 info@wagnerconsultingservices.com 678-480-1550