Liz Leroux, MSW. RSW Manager, YWCA Child & Family Services

1. YWCA of Calgary Child Support Program at Sheriff King Home Liz Leroux, MSW. RSW Manager, YWCA Child & Family Services

2. Heightened arousal Separation anxiety Nervous & anxious behaviors Changes in play Impact of Witnessing Domestic Violence • Sleep disturbances • Regression • Acting out behaviors • Internalizing behaviors

3. Child Support Program Philosophy • Designed to meet therapeutic needs of children & adolescents staying at SKH • Children recognized as clients with unique needs • Child Support Counsellors will support and advocate for children during their stay at the shelter

4. Child Support Program Goals • Provide a supportive relationship with children in a safe environment • Support children in identifying and expressing feelings • Facilitate development of problem-solving skills • Develop safety plans with children

5. Child Support Program Goals • Provide info around nature and forms of abuse and responsibility for violence • To facilitate the processing of traumatic experiences • To support moms with non-abusive parenting strategies • Empower moms to interact and take responsibility for their children

6. The Playroom • A safe, nurturing place for “kids to be kids” • Child-centered play • Inclusive setting, wheelchair accessible • Opportunity for mom to have a break • Not a day-care setting

8. Preschool (0-5) Monday- Friday: 9:30-11:30AM 1:00- 3:00 PM except Wednesday: 1:00-2:15 PM Summer Hours: Monday- Friday: 9:30-11:30AM The Playroom Hours School-aged Children(6+) • Tuesday &Thursday: 3:30- 4:30 PM • Kids Club: Thursday after school • Summer Hours: Monday- Friday:1:00-3:00 PM, except Wednesdays 1:00-2:15PM

9. Assessment & Intervention Assessment • Parenting Intake • Children’s Intake • Playroom Observations • Play Themes Interventions • Child–centered play • Resources & Referrals • Parenting Strategies & Support • Safety Planning with School-aged children • Worry Buddies • Kids Klub • Journaling • Relaxation Techniques