Parents in the community are being given a chance to learn more about mental health in their kids.
North Grenville is hosting a Community Mental Health Forum for parents and caregivers in response to growing concerns about children’s mental health as a result of the pandemic and ongoing disruptions to regular routines.
Mayor Nancy Peckford says parents have become very concerned about their kids and their families following the recent decision to revert back to virtual learning.
“We thought it would be great to bring parents together and really help them in supporting their children who are now home basically 24/7,” Mayor Peckford said. “They’re learning at home, playing at home often in isolation, and we know that brings a lot of stress for kids and parents.”
The Forum will feature seasoned mental health professionals and advocates from well-respected organizations who will share their expertise working with school-aged kids in these pandemic times.
Peckford says she hopes it can help address the anxiety parents and care-givers are currently feeling.
“In many cases, some people feel profoundly alone,” Peckford said. “That’s very understandable, and I think it’s our responsibility as a community and especially as a council to share every bit of information we have. We want to be able to give people access to really good advice and expertise where we can offer it.”
Speakers will include Counselling Therapists with the Children’s Mental Health of Leeds and Grenville, Lisa Livingston and Cheryl Gaumont, and Program Manager of Parent’s Lifeline of Eastern Ontario, Diane Oxborough.
“You can hear from a variety of frontline children’s mental health therapists who can really provide some guidance and assurance to parents about how to support your children through these tough times,” Peckford said.
To take part, you can send an email to Mayor Peckford, including your name to receive a ZOOM link.
The event is free, and will be streamed Thursday from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.