When a child is abused or neglected, it can impact every aspect of the child’s development: physical, emotional, social, and psychological. A video will kickstart the discussion, focusing on the reasons for delays and challenges based on the neurobiology of brain development. The National Child Traumatic Stress Network's Core Concepts of Traumatic Stress are covered. This course incorporates mandatory reading material essential for resource parents and offers a comprehensive introduction to the topic of trauma. To register, call 314.968.2350 ext. 7234 or email intake.dept@familyforwardmo.org.

From the catalog of the National Training and Development Curriculum (NTDC) Right Time Training, this discussion will emphasize the importance of self-care for parents who are fostering or adopting, along with practical ideas on how to incorporate it into their daily routines. We will unpack ways to help parents understand why maintaining their own mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being is crucial when caring for children who have experienced trauma, separation, or loss. To register, call 314.968.2350 ext. 7234 or email intake.dept@familyforwardmo.org.

From the catalogue of the National Training and Development Curriculum (NTDC) Right Time Training, this theme provides an overview of the common skills that youth will need to effectively navigate as an adult and provide strategies on how families who are fostering or adopting can prepare youth to successfully transition into adulthood. The theme highlights the variance that can exist between chronological and developmental age for children who have experienced trauma, separation and loss and how this can impact the transition to adulthood. Some of the challenges that youth may face during this transition are highlighted. To register, call 314.968.2350 ext. 7234 or email intake.dept@familyforwardmo.org.

This training will give caregivers a deeper understanding of brain development from conception to maturation. The impact of early childhood trauma on the brain’s organization will be explored through a small group activity utilizing The Brain Architecture Game. Will your team be able to build a brain that stands up to toxic stress? To register, call 314.968.2350 ext. 7234 or email intake.dept@familyforwardmo.org.

Children in the foster care system often have not had healthy relationships modeled for them within their families of origin. Some have witnessed domestic violence, inappropriate familial and peer relationships, and experienced the violation of their bodies, distorting what is or is not appropriate in relationships. Exploring topics that may be difficult for adults to discuss with children and teens is the starting point for becoming comfortable with the subject matter. Developing a healthy self-respect is the foundation for future healthy relationships, and as caregivers, we must engage our children in ongoing conversations. To register, call 314.968.2350 ext. 7234 or email intake.dept@familyforwardmo.org.